Tag Archive for: new puppy

Checklist Before Bringing a New Puppy Home

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Checklist Before Bringing a New Puppy Home

Since March 23rd is National Puppy Day,  here is a simple checklist to help you navigate bringing your puppy home!

1. Commitment

You are making a major commitment when getting a puppy. Puppies grow up, and most live 10-15 years. It’s important to consider the financial, emotional and physical responsibilities involved with bringing this new family member home.

2. Accidents

Puppies piddle . . . A LOT so be sure to invest in quality puppy pads to cover the area where you will be keeping your little furry friend. Don’t forget to get a quality scooper for the backyard as well. If you’re not prepared for a puppy to have an accident on your new carpet or nice hardwood then a puppy may not be right at this time.

3. Licenses

You’ll need to license your puppy within your town or county, just know that most wait until the puppy has received their rabies vaccination. The price varies if the dog is neutered/spayed or not. Most municipalities require a yearly fee after that.

Pet licenses are required in all areas of Larimer County. Yearly renewal may be needed depending on the type of animal and where you live. You can find more information specific to Larmier County and the areas Wet Noses Pet Sitting services (Berthoud & Windosr) on the Larimer Humane Society website.

4. Collars & Harness

Collars are another expense you’ll have, several in fact. You will need to fit new collars correctly until your puppy is fully grown. Now is also the time to decide on a harness and/or a gentle leader head halter remembering to size them as they grow.  Complete everything with a sturdy leash.

We do not recommend using retractable leashes. These types of leashes are often thinner, which means they can snap. It also does not help reinforce how far your dog is allowed to stray from you when walking as the distance changes.

Recommended harnesses:

– Ruffwear

– Julius K9

Make sure to also get tags made for your puppy! We recommend including your pets name, your name, and a contact number. Most people will not bring your dog to you. Plus if your dog is large, people will know that your large dog is not at home. While rare, this can pose a safety risk.

5. Crate Training

Crates are an excellent way to help your puppy feel safe when you are out of the home.

Fitting your puppy with the correct size crate is paramount. Your new puppy will need room to stand and be able to turn around and lie down comfortably. Also consider the adult size your puppy will be growing into when purchasing your crate. If you’re worried about the crate being too big, most crates come with dividers to make it smaller.

I personally have an extra-large Midwest Pet Product crate for my cat when he was recovering from surgery. It might seem quite silly to get such a large crate for such a small puppy (or cat!) but once you add in bedding, toys, and any other comfort items – plus a growing puppy, that extra-large crate will start to seem smaller than it used to be.

6. Puppy Gate

You’ll want to invest in a sturdy puppy gate to contain your puppy in a particular room or area until all their training is done. Limiting the puppies roaming area will aid in their training. Be sure to find an area that you can dedicate to your puppy throughout the next few months/years.

7. Water & Food Bowls

Water and food bowls should be heavy enough that a puppy cannot tip them over. Sturdy ceramic or solid stainless steel are ideal as they non-porous and less susceptible to bacteria growth compared to plastic.

Be sure to have another water bowl out in the yard for easy access. Make sure to change this bowl daily, or multiple times per day. Standing water is ideal for mosquitos to breed in. Water bowls outside also become dirtier quicker than bowls inside.

8. Toys, Toys, and More Toys

Puppy toys are a great way to use up all that energy, but be sure that they are appropriate for the age of your puppy. Puppies, like toddlers, put everything in their mouth! Make sure that the toys are safe and are made specifically for puppies. Nina Ottosson has some puppy-friendly puzzle toys we recommend. These toys can be purchased at many retailers.

9. Bedding

Providing a soft bed in your puppies crate/kennel is important to support growing bones and ligaments.  Also having another bed in a safe, quiet place in your living room is a great idea when you have them out with you on their supervised visits.

10. Veterinary Care

Finding a veterinarian that you feel comfortable with and trust is vitally important. This relationship will continue throughout the puppies life through yearly exams and vaccinations. If you do not adopt your puppy from a shelter, you will need a veterinarian to microchip your pet. Microchips might seem excessive if your pet already has an ID tag but collars can fall off and tags can get worn away.

11. Dog Training

Consider a dog trainer. Most dogs are surrendered between the ages of 5 months and 3 years. Investing in a qualified trainer who has the knowledge to teach you and your puppy how what is expected of him, can set you both up for success.

12. Pet Sitter

Finally, think about how much time your puppy will be home alone. Puppies need a lot of socialization as well as extra feeding and potty time. Finding a bonded qualified pet sitter is an optimal solution to this issue. Wet Noses Pet Sitting have trained and bonded pet sitters certified in pet CPR ready to help you with your new puppy!

 

Thinking through this checklist is a great start to providing your puppy with everything they need. Supplying well timed visits and walks with a pet sitter will ensure that he or she is mentally and physically fulfilled.  The end result is a happier, more well adjusted puppy that will bring you and your family endless joy and happiness for many years to come!

How to Choose a Dog That’s Right for You

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How to Choose a Dog That’s Right for You

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

Size


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

 

 

 

 

Activity Level


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

 

 

 

 

Physical Maintenance


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

 

 

 

 

Age


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

 

 

 

 

Breed


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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

1. They have HUGE hearts!

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

2. They are so gentle.

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

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

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

golden retriever

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

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

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

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

6. They have a relatively long life expectancy.

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

adult cream golden retriever laying on floor

7. They will brighten your home and your day!

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

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

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

9. They aren’t big diggers or droolers.

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

golden retriever lying on green grass field during daytime

10. They are the best family pets!

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

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

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Puppy?_Header

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Puppy?

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What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My Puppy?_Header

Are you going out of town but are worried about your puppy? Curious about what pet sitting visits for a puppy are ideal? Puppies require a lot of care but sometimes you have to leave town when they are young. A family emergency comes up, or maybe you got the puppy unexpectedly and already had a trip planned. We can help! Visits and schedules are going to vary dramatically based on the age of the puppy and where she is at with house training.

A good rule of thumb is: a puppy can hold it for 1 hour per month of age

This means a 2 month old puppy can last for 2 hours, 3 month old puppy for 3 hours, etc. Your puppy also needs to go outside if she has been playing, eating, drinking, or just woke up. We need to set up visits based on the age of your puppy and how long she can go without outside trips. In addition, some breeds tire faster than others, which will change how much exercise your puppy needs.

 

Puppy of French bulldog lying on floor indoor

Puppy Of French Bulldog Lying On Floor Indoor by Scopio from NounProject.com

Puppy Option #1

This is an ideal schedule for very young puppies that need out every two hours.

 

30 Minute Visits – Every 2 hours starting 2 hours after you leave 

Your sitter will arrive and take your pup out first thing. We want to use whatever reward system you have been using for consistency. Then your sitter can give your pup a snack and have playtime, followed by more potty time and settling in for the next nap. If you pup uses pee pads or a similar set up then your sitter will change those out and clean up your pup if needed.

12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay 

Your sitter will arrive in the early evening (around 7 pm) and let your pup out first thing. Then comes feeding and playtime. Puppies need some time with ongoing interaction, rather that the sitter being in and out. These evening times allow your pup to be out in the areas of the house that you allow. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. Right before bed, your pup goes out for the last potty break and then settles down for the evening. With young puppies you may want the pup taken out at specific times during the night, which your sitter can follow through with. 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 playtime and feeding, as well as other pet chores.

Example with times:

Extended Overnight – Sitter stays until 7am

9am – 30 Minute Visit

11:30am – 30 Minute Visit

2pm – 30 Minute Visit

4:30pm – 30 Minute Visit

7pm – Sitter arrives for Extended Overnight Stay

These visits can be adjusted based on how long your pup can be home alone in between visits without a potty break.

 

Puppy sitting on brown ceramic floor tiles

Puppy Sitting On Brown Ceramic Floor Tiles by Scopio from NounProject.com

Puppy Option #2

This is a good schedule for puppies who can go a little longer between visits but need to play.

 

30 Minute Mid-Morning Visit

Your sitter will arrive and take your pup out first thing. We want to use whatever reward system you have been using for consistency. Then your sitter can give your pup a snack and have playtime, followed by more potty time and settling in for the next nap. If you pup uses pee pads or a similar set up then your sitter will change those out and clean up your pup if needed.

1 Hour Early Afternoon Visit

This is the perfect visit for your pup to get some extra exercise and get worn out for the afternoon. This is a great time for your sitter to take care of any extra chores and make sure sure everything is taken care of. The longer visit will let your pup play for awhile and have a more normal routine like when you are home.

12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay 

Your sitter will arrive in the early evening (around 7 pm) and let your pup out first thing. Then comes feeding and playtime. Puppies need some time with ongoing interaction, rather that the sitter being in and out. These evening times allow your pup to be out in the areas of the house that you allow. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. Right before bed, your pup goes out for the last potty break and then settles down for the evening. With young puppies you may want the pup taken out at specific times during the night, which your sitter can follow through with. 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 playtime and feeding, as well as other pet chores.

Example with times:

Extended Overnight – Sitter stays until 7am

10am – 30 Minute Visit

2pm – 1 Hour Visit

7pm – Sitter arrives for Extended Overnight Stay

These visits can be adjusted based on how long your pup can be home alone in between visits without a potty break.

 

Cavalier spaniel puppy running in the snow outside

Cavalier Spaniel Running In The Snow Outside by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com

Puppy Option #3

This is a good schedule for puppies that can last 4-5 hours during the day but have a lot of energy.

 

1-2 Hour Mid-Day Visit

Your sitter will arrive and take your pup out first thing. We want to use whatever reward system you have been using for consistency. Then your sitter can give your pup a snack and have playtime, followed by more potty time and settling in for the afternoon. A long visit can really wear out even the most energetic puppy, which is great for puppies that are 5+ months old. They need less frequent visits but to burn a lot of energy.

12 Hour Extended Overnight Stay 

Your sitter will arrive in the early evening (around 7 pm) and let your pup out first thing. Then comes feeding and playtime. Puppies need some time with ongoing interaction, rather that the sitter being in and out. These evening times allow your pup to be out in the areas of the house that you allow. Your sitter sends you a picture with an update so you can rest easy knowing your pup has company. Right before bed, your pup goes out for the last potty break and then settles down for the evening. With young puppies you may want the pup taken out at specific times during the night, which your sitter can follow through with. 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 playtime and feeding, as well as other pet chores.

 

Three Parson Russel Terrier puppies near display counter

Three Parson Russel Terrier Puppies Near Display Counter by Scopio from NounProject.com

Our Considerations for Puppies

For puppies, there are a few factors we like to consider when setting a schedule:

  • How long have you been leaving your pup home alone so far?
  • Is your pup sleeping through the night?
  • How long does your puppy take to tire out during playtime? If you pup get tired quickly then you may be able to alternate a few 15 minute visits. Alternatively, if you have a high energy pup that is a litter older you may want a couple longer visits.
  • Young puppies usually just have playtimes instead of going for walks. We check with you to see your preference on activities.
  • Do you need regular clean ups? If you are using puppy pads or if you pup is making messy blankets, then we need to include time for cleaning.
  • For you – are you more comfortable having someone active around the house to make it look lived-in? 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 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, walks and some cuddles (if your dog 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 Puppy Happy While You are Gone!

Set Up Your Appointment!

5 Tips to Picking a Veterinarian You Love!

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Adding a new pet to your family is very exciting. It’s important to find a good vet and start their care as soon as possible. But it is likely that you feel a little overwhelmed when you see the long list of vets in the directory. It’s not too hard to narrow down the search if you know what to consider when choosing a vet.

1. What kind of accreditation do they have?

The best veterinary hospitals are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). They regularly evaluate the practices on about 900 different standards of excellence, which means the level of care is the best in the industry. Visit their website to find an AAHA accredited vet near you.

Many clinics are also starting to offer a Fear Free certification. This is a course that teaches veterinarians to work with animals in such a way as to minimize the fear and stress involve in a vet visit. Find a Fear Free certified veterinarian near you.

2. How convenient are their hours and location?

There’s no doubt that we are busy people. That is why it is important to have a veterinarian office that is located near your home or on your daily commute. Moreover, make sure that they have the hours that fit your daily schedule. If you work long days, find a location with evening or weekend hours.

3. What type of emergency care do they offer?

Accidents and sickness happens. We can’t plan for them and unfortunately they also can happen at all hours of the night. Make sure to have a plan in place for emergency care. If the vet you choose has AAHA accreditation, there is a good chance they have 24 hour emergency services.

4. Do they have in house medical equipment and lab testing?

The best offices have in house testing and equipment. If your pet needs lab work or x-rays, the results will be faster; meaning you will know what is wrong and how to treat it as soon as possible.

5. Are there good online reviews and testimonials?

Nothing beats a face to face encounter to tell how much (or how little) you are going to like any particular office. However, in the great day and age of the internet, we have sites like Yelp.com that help shine the light behind the doors. Read reviews on community sites as well as testimonials on their website as well. This will help you get an idea if the practice is a good fit for you family.

 

After you’ve picked a vet, go for a regular check to assess the level of care. If they are a perfect, then great! If not, try again until you find the one that is just right for you.

Do you have any recommendations for veterinarian offices in the Fort Collins or Loveland area? Sound off in the comments below and let us know!

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