Tag Archive for: puppy

What to Know When Puppy Sitting_Header

What to Know When Puppy Sitting

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What to Know When Puppy Sitting_Header

 

If you are going to be puppy sitting, or a looking for a puppy sitter, there are many details you should know to make sure the puppy gets the best care. Puppies take a bit more work (actually a lot more work) than adult dogs so it is important that everyone be on the same page.

Puppies Need to Go Out Often

A good rule of thumb is that puppies can only last an hour per year of age, so a 2 month old puppy will need to go out every 2 hours, a 3 month old every 3 hours and so on. This can vary quite a bit by the individual puppy based on breed, personality, etc. The more consistent the house training, the better she will do.

When no one is home the puppy should be contained to a small spot, like a crate, so she learns to hold it. When puppy sitting, the puppy needs to go out often and be supervised when out loose to make sure she does not have accidents in the house. This requires a puppy sitter that is vigilant and attentive.

Take a look at suggested schedules for puppy sitting when owners are on vacation and for day walks.

Puppies Need Training

Puppies do not magically understand us like Lassie. They need lots of positive training in order to understand what we want from them. Where we want them to go potty, how we want them to play, what they can chew on, and more! When someone is puppy sitting they need to have a good idea of basic training skills and know how to enforce them. These should be the same methods you use, although a good puppy sitter will be able to offer suggestions from experience.

Puppies Need Consistency

Humans and puppies speak a different language so interactions need to be consistent in order to ensure the puppy can figure out what is going on. Imagine if you were trying to learn a new language and someone gestured at an apple and said “pomme”, but the next time gestured at the apple and said “rouge”. Well which one is it? Plus a puppy is a baby. A biting, wriggling, barking baby, but a baby none-the-less. Everything a puppy learns is new and every impression is important. If the puppy is spending time trying to figure out if you mean “pomme” or “rouge”, she will not be able to get the lesson quickly and will get confused. Everyone who interacts with the puppy should be clear and know the rules.

Puppies Need Positive Reinforcement

Yelling at a puppy or scaring her is not a helpful part of the training process. Positive reinforcement means your puppy learns our human language without fear. When a puppy is afraid, all she learns is to be scared of you. A puppy brain cannot learn when in a state of fear. Positive reinforcement means she can learn in a way that keeps her fear-free and learning all the time. The best way to be able to stay positive is to set the puppy up for success. If you know she will have accidents, then do not leave her unsupervised in the house; especially when she might be needing a potty break. Then when she goes potty in the correct place, use lots of positive reinforcement so she wants to do it again and again.

Puppies Need Socialization

Puppies need to see a wide variety of people, other animals and environments to grow up to be well-rounded adult dogs. That is why puppy sitting is so helpful! It allows the puppy to meet new people in a positive and safe way. Learn more about the Benefits of Walks for Puppies. Puppy sitters should learn to interact with the puppy the same way as the owners and follow the rules the puppy has so they can be properly encouraged.

Four tricolor Jack Russell dogs on two wooden chairs indoor

Four Tricolor Jack Russell Dogs On Two Wooden Chairs Indoor by Scopio from NounProject.com

Puppies Need Playtime

The best thing about what you need to know when puppy sitting is that puppies love to play. Play is necessary for the health and happiness of puppies. When puppy sitting, puppies need to have a lot of time in their schedule set aside for play, ideally with other puppies, with humans and alone. Puppies learn a lot from playtime with other puppies including how to moderate their bite pressure, how to not be too rough and how to read dog body language. And playtime is also a good outlet for excess energy. A tired puppy is a good puppy!

Puppies Need Lots of Meals

Puppies are burning a lot of energy and they need a lot of food to keep them going. Meals need to be at a set time every day and puppies always need to go out for a potty break afterwards. When puppy sitting, visits have to be long enough to provide time for playtime, feeding and potty breaks. Most puppies will eat 3-5 times a day.

Puppy Sitting Plan

When we provide puppy sitting we look at how a visit should be structured. Most often a puppy sitting visit will look like this:

Out of crate –> Potty time –> Playtime –> Meal –> Potty time –> Playtime –> Potty time –> Back in crate

If the weather is nice we often sit outside when puppy sitting so puppies can go potty and have playtime as needed. This cuts down on accidents. We are only there for a specific amount of time. The less time spent cleaning up accidents, the more time spent on playtime!

If you are interested in learning more about our puppy sitting visits take a look at the Benefits of Walks for Puppies and Pet Sitting Visits for Puppies. We would love to set up puppy sitting that is perfect for you and your puppy!

If you are interested in becoming a puppy sitter, we are often looking for new team members! Look at our open positions. If you’re interested in puppy sitting but aren’t old enough to join our team, ask your family and friends if you can help take care of their puppies. It will give you great experience and plus, puppies!

What to Do NOW to Prepare for the Christmas Puppy

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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!

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

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

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

how hot is your car infographic

Steps Before Breaking a Car Window

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

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

Treatment

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

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

Summary

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

dog in hot car when to break windows infographic

What Pet Sitting Visits Do I Need for My 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!

Cold Weather Precautions for Pets

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

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

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

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

Cold Weather Safety Tips

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

Easy Thanksgiving Treats to Make for Your Dog

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4 Easy Thanksgiving Dog Treat Recipes Header

 

It’s officially November, kitchens and cooks all over the nation are getting prepped for the big day including those who want to make some easy Thanksgiving dog treats. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it and it’s time to start planning your menu. This year make sure to include your dog in the menu by whipping some easy to make treats of their very own. Whether you’re an avid chef and baker or just starting out, you’ll find that you can at least make one or two of these homemade treat recipes.

 

The Easiest Ever Two-Ingredients 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).

 

The Easiest-Ever Two Ingredients Dog Treats Recipe Card

Frozen Apple Smoothie Bites 

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

Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Pie Bites

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Mix oatmeal and flour together in a large bowl.
  3. Add enough water to get the dough to form a ball. Add water slowly, too much will make it too sticky, not enough and it will crumble.
  4. Line cupcake tins. Take a chunk of dough and press into the bottom of the cupcake liner. The dough should go up sides a bit, about a 1/2″.
  5. Bake crust for 8 mins, until firm and slightly brown.
  6. Carefully take crusts out of the tin, cool on the rack. When cool, remove liners.
  7. Mix pumpkin, banana, and half of the yogurt together.
  8. Fill each crust with pumpkin banana mixture.
  9. Freeze until firm. Serve Frozen.

 

Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Pie Bites Recipe Card

Peanut Butter Molasses Treats

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  3. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
  4. Knead dough into a ball
  5. Roll the ball out onto a floured surface 1/4 inch thick
  6. Take a pizza cutter and score the dough horizontally and then vertically to make a grid. Be careful to score the dough, not completely cut through.
  7. Place on a prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
  8. Cool and break into pieces, then refrigerate.

 

Peanut Butter Molasses Dog Treats Recipe Card

The best part of making your own easy Thanksgiving dog treats is that you know exactly what your dog is eating. Plus, they get to feel like a special part of the family on Thanksgiving. If you decide to add one or all of the recipes to your menu, let us know how they turn out!

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

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Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

 

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

Make sure your pets have an ID tag

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

Create a clam place for your pets to relax

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

Be careful where you place lit candles

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

Keep chocolate and sweets out of reach

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

Practice decoration and costume safety

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

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

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets

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Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

 

What’s one of the first things to come to mind when you think of Halloween? Chances are, you’re thinking “CANDY!!!”.  Sugary treats are a definite favorite during this spook-tacular season. But there are some Halloween dangers that can also play not-so-sweet tricks on your pet’s health. Be sure to keep Fido and Fluffy away from the following items in your kid’s candy bag:

Bite-sized Hard Candy

Pile of chocolate

Pile of chocolate by Daniela Simona Temneanu from NounProject.com

These sweet treats can pose a major choking hazard for your precious pet. Hard candy becomes slick when mixed with saliva, making it easy to be inhaled into the windpipe. Keep these tempting treats away from Fido and Fluffy!

Candy with Wrappers

When pets get their paws on Halloween candy, they gobble them down, wrapper and all. Plastic and foil wrappers, when ingested, can cause an obstruction in the intestines and irritate the lining of the GI tract. Sometimes they can be passed without any issue, but it’s best to keep all wrapped treats away from your candy craving cat or canine.

Chocolate Covered Raisins

These tasty treats may be a favorite amongst pet parents and their kids, but they combine two potentially deadly ingredients for dogs. When ingested, chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea and seizures, while raisins can trigger kidney failure. If your dog gets his paws on this delicious yet dangerous treat, take him to your veterinarian immediately!

Candy Corn and Other High Sugar Candies

Sugar may have you and your kids climbing the walls, but it will only bring your pet down, causing painful and severe gas. What’s worse is that the sugar provides an excellent source of food for bad gut bacteria to dine on. This can pull water into the colon, causing an extra-messy case of diarrhea for Fluffy or Fido.

Sugar-free Candy and Gum

Most sugar-free Halloween candy these days contain a sugar-substitute called Xylitol, also may be labeled as Birch Sugar. While safe for people, Xylitol can be deadly if ingested by your canine companion. It causes a severe drop in blood sugar within minutes after ingestion, making dogs lethargic, unable to walk, and may cause seizure activity. If your dog survives the initial symptoms, often the dog will be left with severe liver damage and potentially fatal liver failure, making this the most dangerous type of Halloween “treat” for dogs.

Pet Poison Helpline - 855-764-7661

Pet Poison Helpline Number: (855) 764-7661 *$65 incident fee applies

Calls to the veterinarians at the Pet Poison Helpline increase by 12 percent during the week of Halloween, making it the call center’s busiest time of year. If you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, call your veterinarian or the Helpline (1-(855)-764-7661) sooner rather than later. It is easier, less expensive, and safer for your pet to be treated earlier. When he’s showing severe symptoms of distress or poisoning from Halloween candy treatment can be costly and more risky.

 

Halloween Candy Safety

Top 3 Halloween Costume Safety Tips For Your Pets Header

Top 3 Halloween Costume Safety Tips For Your Pets

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Halloween is fast approaching and we’re all busy planning. There is no doubt costumes are on our minds; whether it’s for yourself, your kids or your fur-babies. And it’s a whole lot of fun dressing up for Halloween. However, there are some Halloween costume safety tips for pets you need to know about.

1. Comfort is key

A lot of times Halloween can be chilly. Use an old jacket or sweater for a pet costume to keep them warm and festive. Something along the lines of a superhero, or firefighter would be good; simple and sweet, but most importantly comfortable for your pet. It needs to be loose fitting, but snug enough

Dog in Pumpkin Halloween Costume

istolethetv from Hong Kong, China, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

that they don’t trip on it.

2. Watch out for choking hazards

Tying on hats or scarves can be super cute too, but make sure you watch them to avoid getting stuck or having the tie wrap around their neck too tightly. Also, avoid costumes where there can chew off small pieces which could cause them to choke or have gestational issues.

3. Keep an eye on them at all times

This is the biggest Halloween costume safety tip for pets. Make sure to watch your pet carefully for signs of discomfort. You know how miserable it is to be stuck in an uncomfortable outfit. If your dog seems to be suffering for the sake of fashion, maybe it’s time to snap a quick pic for the memory book. Then let sleeping dogs lie for the rest of the night.

When you research pet costumes online, you will undoubtedly run into people say that dressing up your pet for Halloween is cruel. They say your pets don’t understand why or what is going on.  Other people love it because it can be in good fun and it’s a great time to make wonderful memories with the family.

Overall, it’s best to use your judgement and make sure to keep an eye on how they react to the costume.  If your pet is accustomed to clothing, then dressing up in a costume could be a breeze for them.  But, if the costume seems to cause them stress or is a bother to them, then maybe it’s best to leave the costume at home.

There are some great ideas for extremely easy and stress-free costumes for your pets, so make sure to check back and see what other ideas we’ve put together for you this Halloween! If you’re still not sure what your pet should dress up as, check out stores like PetSmart for their costume selections.

What Do Different Colored Collars and Leashes Mean?_Header

What Do Different Colored Collars and Leashes Mean?

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What Do Different Colored Collars and Leashes Mean?_Pet Sitting Header

Do you ever wish that people came with warning labels? Like, “Hasn’t Had Their Coffee,” “Doesn’t Play Well with Others,” “Generally a Nice Person” and so on? That way you know who to chat with at the store or know who to avoid because confrontation is inevitable.
 
Well, people don’t have those labels yet. But there is a way to tell a dogs personality by their different colored collars and leashes.
 
There are now different colored collars and leashes for our dogs. These help us know which dogs welcome affection and attention, have special needs, or are anxious about strangers or children.
 
While as dog owners it is still our responsibility to make sure we help others know how to interact with our dogs. A simple way is by picking the right color collar or leash. This is still growing in popularity. A dog may have a green collar or leash. That does not mean it’s friendly.
 
Always ask before interacting with a dog.
 
Want to learn more about this topic in video format? Check out the video below!

What do the colors mean?

Different colored collars and leashes mean different things. Below are some of the most common colors and their meanings.

Red: (Red) Approach dogs with caution.

Orange: (Orange) Dogs are friendly toward adults and children, but they are not good with other dogs.

Green: (Green) Dogs are friendly toward people and other dogs.

Yellow: (Yellow) Nervous or anxious. If stated on the collar it can also mean up for adoptions.

Blue: (Blue) Dog in training or is a working dog.

White: (White) This dog has hearing or sight problems or may be completely deaf or blind.

Different Colored Collars and Leashes

Photo from Pinterest

What I love about these codes is that you never know what dog is friendly or not. People tend to think larger athletic dogs are not always friendly. Especially those dogs under “bully breeds.”

To name a few: Pit bulls, Staffordshire Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, and Rottweilers. These are often considered to be dogs you would want to stay away from but this is not always the case. From my personal experience, some of these dogs were the sweetest I’ve ever met, while other smaller dogs were more aggressive. You can never tell a dog’s disposition from the breed alone.

Are there any other types of colored collars and leashes?

Absolutely! Color coding is growing in popularity but so are collars and leashes that say “Adopt Me” or “In Training”. These may be different colors than what you’re used to. Whenever you see a working dog you should either not engage with the dog or ask the owner if you may pet them. Because a dog doesn’t look like it’s working doesn’t mean it isn’t.
Working dogs can help with a variety of tasks. Dogs are not limited to only being guide dogs. They can also detect seizures, low blood sugar, and can help stabilize those who are unsteady on their feet.

Conclusion

So next time you see a dog with a different colored collars and leashes, remember it may be a message. Or if you have a dog that is out and about often, you may want to invest in one of these collars. It can only help you and your dog better relate with the people you encounter.