Tag Archive for: Fort Collins Dogs

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Boulder

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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!

Getting a Dog – Complete Checklist for New Dog Owners

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Bringing a new dog into the family is a very exciting time. Becoming a pet parent is rewarding, but also full of responsibility. The best way to prepare for your new dog is to have a checklist to lay the groundwork for your new addition.

 

Download the Complete Preparing for a New Dog  Checklist

Four Important Considerations:

1. Time: It is very important to think about how much time you’ll honestly be able to give your new pet.

  • At the very least dogs need to be fed 2-3 times a day and walked at least once a day.
  • Dogs with more energy may need even more time for proper exercise and stimulation.
  • Healthy pets should get at least an hour or day of direct attention, even if it’s just cuddling.
  • Don’t forget to add in time for grooming, hygiene, and appointments.

2. Costs: You want to make sure that you can always care for your vet. The best way is to create a budget for a new dog before you bring them home.

  • Does your new pet need to be spayed or neutered?
  • Is there an adoption fee that needs to be paid?
  • Monthly expenses such as food, pet sitting or new supplies
  • Routine veterinary care
  • Microchipping
  • Grooming equipment and supplies
  • Will you want to sign them up for training classes?
  • Beds and toys
  • Spare supplies

3. Age & Size: These are also two important factors in getting a new dog.

  • Puppies take far more time and training
  • Is your home accommodating to a large dog or would it be better suited for a small dog?
  • Do you have another pet to consider when deciding on what type of dog to get?
  • Can a large pet travel with you comfortably?

4. Lifestyle and relationship: Another big consideration is how your lifestyles will blend and the relationship you want to to have with your new canine companion. 

  • Are you active and want to bring your dog on hikes and camping trips?
  • Will your work and social life affect your ability to spend time and care for your pet?
  • Do you want a pet that will travel with you?
  • Do you have children that need a reliable and safe dog?
  • Is your new dog going to be your best friend or more of an independent roommate?

 

Shopping Checklist:

  • Age appropriate food
  • Water and food bowls
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • ID tags (make sure your phone number is on it)
  • Dog carrier or crate
  • Doggy shampoo and brush
  • Super absorbent paper towels
  • Various types of toys
  • Blanket
  • Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Plastic baggies for waste

 

Getting a new dog awesome. Once you have considered all the important factors and gotten their supplies, the only thing left to do is have fun with your new family member!

Download the Complete Preparing for a New Dog  Checklist

Black Friday Shopping for Your Pets

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It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost here. Once our bellies are full, it is time to start thinking about the biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday. After all, it is the perfect time to find the most affordable presents for our loved ones. And we can’t forget about our furry family members this holiday season. There are a lot of great Black Friday deals just for them. We’ve compiled a great list of both online and in-store deals to help you navigate the sales.

Pet Smart

Store Hours – Sales online happening now!

Online deals 11/26-11/27, in store sales 11/27

Petco

Store Hours: Closed on Thanksgiving Day. Hours vary by location

Petco is running both in store and online deals this year! Unlike other companies they opt’d not to publish a physical Black Friday ad this year.

Some items include:

  • Buy 1 Get 1 50% off Whole Hearted Dog and Cat Food
  • Buy 1 Get 1 Free Cat and Dog Treats
  • Buy 1 Get 1 50% off Dry Cat and Dog Food*
  • 50% off Cat Food Variety Packs
  • 50% Off You and Me Orthopedic and Memory Foam Mats
  • 20% Off West Pay Toys

*In Store Only

They’re also offering 50% Off entire stock Holiday Tails Collection for Cats, Dogs, and Small Animals for those who need stocking stuffers still!

Wal-Mart

Store Hours – Time varies by location

Walmart 2020 Black Friday Ad

Photo from blackfriday.com

Costco

Store Hours – Closed on Thanksgiving Day and will open at 9 a.m. on Black Friday.

Costco Black Friday 2020 Ad

Image from passionforsavings.com

After you know where to shop you need to find out what you want to get your best four-legged friend.

Here are our top products that your pet is sure to love:

For the Cats:

  1. Catit Senses 2.0 Food Tree: Give your cats a meal or treat while also providing physical and metal stimulation. Also check out the Catit Senses 2.0 Digger!
  2. Novelty Cat Scratchers: These scratches also server as a festival holiday decoration! A perfect gift for any cat in your life.
  3. Yeowww! Catnip Toy: Made in the USA and filled with organically grown catnip these cat toys are durable! The Yellow Banana is the most popular and makes for a great stocking stuffer.
  4. SPOT Skinneeez Mouse Catnip Toy: Ideal for a cat who likes to destroy their toys. Skinneeeze Mouse are stuffing free and filled with catnip.
  5. Doc & Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Cat Feeder: Are you or a friend living with a cat that likes to pretend that your bedroom is a NASCAR track at 2AM? This feeder can help solve that problem by turning that zoomies energy into hunting energy. Comes with three feeders.
  6. Little Dove Pet Teepee: Looking for a new pet bed? Little Dove makes a wide variety of quality pet beds, made from 100% cotton canvas and New Zealand Pine Poles. Little Dove beds aren’t just for cats, but small dogs as well.

For the Dogs:

  1. LickiMat: LickiMats come in a bunch of varieties to satisfy the needs of any dog. They’re a great way to provide physical and mental stimulation. Also for cats.
  2. P.L.A.Y. Globetrotter: One of their many sets of themed toys. These are sure to be a hit with everyone! The fried chicken from the P.L.A.Y. American Classic set giggles. Check your local pet store for individual toys.
  3. Benebone: Benebones come in a variety of flavors and sizes. Made in the USA, these toys use real-flavoring to make their toys a nylon-chew dogs can’t resist. Perfect for the heavy chewer in your life. Also comes in a two pack for the smaller dogs you know.
  4. TUFFY Dinosaur Destructosaurs: This LARGE dog toy is great for the big dogs in your life. Standing at almost two feet tall, the Destructosaurs is double stitched with four layers of fabric. Did we mention it’s also machine washable
  5. Outward Hound Invincibles: This little gecko squeaks and is stuffing free! Great for a dog who is more gentle on their toys and takes longer to destroy them.
  6. Messy Mutts Double Silicone Feeder: Have a messy eater? These place mats are a great way to keep dishes in place and food from getting everywhere. Also for cats. Being dishwasher safe is a huge plus!

Still not sure what to get? Head on over to your local pet store and talk to their sales associates. They’ll help you find the perfect gift for your four-legged friend.

 

With all these deals and ideas, you are sure to find the perfect present for your pet this holiday season!

 

How to Keep Your Dog Busy When the Kids Go Back to School

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It’s been a nice long summer of cuddles in the morning and playing in the afternoon. The home has been bustling with activity while the kids are out of school. And typically, most of our dogs love all of the extra attention they get during this time. That’s why it can be hard for them to adjust when it’s time for the kids to go back to school.

back to schoolGet them a few new toys dog

Help your dog get over the school day slump with new activities to keep them occupied.

  • Puzzle toys are great at keeping dog’s entertained. Not only do they challenge their brains for a reward, they also stay busy for a while as well. After playing with it, they feel satisfied from play and getting a treat
  • Dog chews will help save your shoes and furniture if your dog is really feeling the back to school blues. Often our dogs find themselves chewing when they are stressed or bored. Giving them new chews can help them ease their anxiety and boredom.
  • Tug Poles are a fun way to interact with your dog. They look similar to the familiar cat fishing pole toy, but a little tougher and more durable. Take some time each to hop it around and play with your dog to put back some fun in their day.
  • Ball launchers are also a great way to keep your dog busy when the kids go back to school. Whether it’s automatic or the chuck-it launcher, dogs love playing ball.

 

Tire them out with exercise

You won’t have to worry about your dog being bored if they are too pooped to play. Wear them out a good walk or a vigorous play session before you leave or have to start your chores. They’ll happily nap for a little while, then you can get your daily tasks completed without them begging for attention.

Turn on TV or Radio

It can get too quiet during the day, especially being used to a busy household. Help your dog through the quiet times by having the TV or radio play on low when you’re not at home. If you’re going to be gone a lot of the day, set a time so it cuts on or off as needed. They may not like it on all day, but a little ambient noise can go a long way.

Hire a dog walker

Another great way to keep your dog busy during the quiet days of the school season is by hiring a dog walker. They’ll come check on your pet, give them some TLC and a good walk. This will give them much needed attention and exercise, helping them settled down for a little while until you and the kids return home.

 

Changes in our routines and missing loved ones that are usually there can be stressful for our dogs. That’s why it good to put a little extra effort into keeping them busy during the transition. And don’t forget to call us for dog walking and pet sitting services! We’d love to help keep your dog company when the kids go back to school.

 

 

 

 

Celebrate Grandparents Day – With Your Pets!

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September 10th is National Grandparents Day. And even if you don’t have human kids you can still celebrate the day with your parents. You can celebrate the day by giving them presents from their grand-pets. As family dynamics change, it’s not that unusual to have families where pets are the children. They are every bit a part of the family as anyone else, so why not include them and your parents in this special day?  Here are some great gift ideas for those special pet grandparents in your life.

 

Dog-Grandparent Mug

grandparent

Worlds Greated Dog Grandma/Grandpa

grandparent

I Love My Granddogs Throw Pillow 

 

grandparent

Paw Print Magnet

grandparents

Grandkids Have Paws Plaque

grandparents

All pet grandparents are sure to love these cute little tokens of appreciation from their grandkids with paws!  Do you plan on celebrating Grandparents Day with your parents and pets? If so, let us know what you’re planning to do or have done in the past in the comments below.

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Fort Collins

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Now that the weather is warming up, we’ve all been a little more focused on sprucing up for spring and summer. From the time at the gym to hair and nail appointments, it’s definitely the time of year to refresh grooming routines after the cold winter months. That should also be the same for your precious pets as well. It’s time to trim up those winter coats and pretty up those paws.

Need helping picking a dog groomer in Fort Collins? Check out our Top 5 places for grooming:

1.) Michi’s Grooming

2.) Animal House

3.) The Dog Pawlour

4.) Spa 5 paws

5.) Wagz Pet Market

How to Pick the Perfect Groomer:

If you’re new to getting your dog or cat groomed, don’t hesitate to give your local groomer a call. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help put your mind to ease.

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 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 groomer in Fort Collins? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Anesthesia Free Dental Cleaning – Advice from Wet Noses Pet Sitting

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You may have heard about a new service being offered to pets- anesthesia free dental cleanings. It is being advertised as a cheaper and safer option to anesthetize cleanings offered from a veterinarian. But is it really safer and worth the money?

Traditional dental cleaning for you dog is similar to what people get done a few times per year. Teeth are scaled and polished, including under the gums, and infected or injured teeth are removed. This is done while the dog is sedated to allow for a more thorough cleaning. It is also less stress for the animal and safety for the vet. These cleanings are done under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian who knows what to do if something goes wrong.

The difference in anesthesia free dental cleaning:

Anesthesia free dental cleanings try to offer a similar service, but with key major differences.

  • Instead of the animal being sedated, the animal is simply restrained. In some cases given a light natural sedative. This is similar to taking your toddler to the dentist and holding him down so that the dentist can clean his teeth. This is really scary and stressful to your pet because they have no idea what is going on. Many pet owners choose anesthesia free dental cleaning because they feel that their animal is too sick or old to get put under, however simply restraining the pet is more stressful and potentially more harmful.
  • Another major issue is that the cleaning is not as thorough. Because the pet is awake, the cleaner cannot reach all the portions of the mouth to do a thorough exam or clean in the back of the mouth or below the gum line. These are the important parts of the teeth to clean since we as pet owners cannot brush them.
  • The third red flag is that the people who preform it are frequently not licensed veterinarians or even vet technicians. This means that if anything goes wrong medically during the procedure, the person preforming it may have no idea what to do or how to save your pet.

dental cleaning

Overall, this procedure is a step in the right direction. It’s important be more aware about pet dental health. However, I feel that the risks of the procedure and the stress it would put on my animals is too great. If you are interested in pursuing the anesthesia free dental cleaning option I encourage you to talk to your vet. Ask them about details to see if your pet is healthy enough or needs the procedure.