Tag Archive for: sidehill sitters

How do I Know if my Pet is Overheating?

/0 Comments/in /by

 

As we prepare for the start of school it easy to think that summer is almost, but the hot weather still pounds down and the heatstroke is still very real.

So, how do you know if your pet is overheating? And even more importantly what do you do if it’s happening to your pet.

How do I spot overheating in my pet? 

  • Constant panting
  • Restlessness
  • Difficulty walking, weakness or wobbliness
  • Vomiting
  • Drooling
  • Collapse
  • Bright red, grey, bluish or purple gums
  • Seizures

 

What do I do if I realize that my pet is suffering from heatstroke?

  • Remove them from heat immediately, but be careful not to over cool your dog too quickly.  
  • Lay them on a cool surface, like a tile floor in an air conditioned room.
  • Use cold compresses on their neck, armpits, and groin areas.
  • Gently wet their paws and ears with a sponge or washcloth
  • Take their rectal temperature to give to the vet
  • Get your pet to ANY vet ASAP. Call your vet on the way, but at this moment the closest vet is the best vet.
  • If you are not at home alone, have one person find the closest vet near by while you do the above subtle cooling techniques.
  • Call your vet and let them know of the situation in case you need a follow up appointment.

Things you want to make sure NOT to do:

Do not use cold water or ice, over cooling can cause blood vessels to constrict which traps the excess heat in the body’s core and can end up doing more harm than good.

Do not force your dog to drink, give them a fresh bowl of water, but do not force it if they are not interested.

Do not leave them unattended or let them “sleep it off.” Similar to any other trauma, letting them sleep it off or giving the time to relax alone can be detrimental. They can easily end up worse off in this situation.

 

The dog days of summer may be upon on us, but it doesn’t mean that we have to suffer with over heating. Check back next week to find out how to keep your Fort Collins pet safe in the sun!

What are the Best Pet Sitting Options for My Older Cat?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Leaving our pets at home can add stress to any trip, but when your older cat is the one being left at home, it can make it all the more stressful. Luckily, there are a few good pet sitting options for your older cat.

Let’s take a look at a few of these options:

  • Hire a pet sitter

This is by far the best option, but sometimes people tend to think it is too expensive. But making sure your cat has the best care while being in the comfort of home is worth it. Older cats don’t like to be taken away from their comfort zone, so bringing the caretaker to them is a great option.

  • Board them at the vet

Boarding is also good for a cat that doesn’t mind being away from home. It can be hard for cats to adapt to the sterilized, yet loving environment; but it doesn’t mean it’s not a good option. Older cats sometimes have medical conditions that can be best left attended to a veterinarian while you are away.

  • Have a dependable friend/family watch them

This is often popular decision because it’s pretty inexpensive. This can work when you have a really close friend care for them as one of their own. The problem with this option is that sometimes is when an emergency happens. If they have a flat tire, accident or aother situation, your pet may take a back seat to their situation. Pet sitters and boarding facilities have systems in place to ensure that your pet has care, no matter what emergencies arise.

As you can see, there are a lot of different pet sitting options all with their own respective pro’s and con’s. It will always come down to your specific situation, but we are always here to help!

If you’re looking for a pet sitter don’t hesitate to give us a call and set up an appointment! 

 

 

5 Ways to Decrease the Chances of Your Dog Being Hit by a Car

/0 Comments/in , /by

 

It can be the worst thing imaginable, but your dog getting hit by a car is a real possibility. This is especially true in the summer when activities are at their peak. So, what can you do to decrease the chances of your dog being hit by a car?

1. Get your dog spayed or neutered

Not only is spaying and neutering important for population control, it also helps keep your dog close to home. Once a dog reaches sexual maturity the likelihood of them trying to escape to seek out mates is greater. Studies have shown that sexual roaming can decrease almost 90% after your dog has been fixed.

2. Make sure you have your dog on the proper leash and collar during walks

If you have the wrong size collar or leash, it is possible that your dog could slip out or yank free from your grasp. It’s important you choose the right collar for your dog to make sure they stay safe.

3. Check fences for holes or weak spots

Summertime is notorious for storms and falling tree limbs can damage fences. Check your fence after storms for any damage that could allow your dog to escape. You never know when your dog may get spooked by a storm or fireworks and try to hightail it out of the yard.

4. Teach your dog safety commands

Teaching your dog commands like “come” or “stay” are the most important commands they need.  This can help avoid them running out of the door or across the street to catch a squirrel or rabbit.

5. Go over dog safety techniques with the whole family

Summer can be a busy time for your front door. With cookouts and the kid’s being out of school, it is likely that your home sees more guests than ever during the summer months. Make sure everyone in the home knows some basic safety tips, like “The Doggy Doorknob Rule.” That’s when all members of the family and guests make sure to check for the dog before turning the doorknob. This will help avoid them escaping when people are coming in and out.

 

Keeping our pets safe is a main priority and anything you can do to decrease the chances of your dog being hit by a car is key. Don’t forget to read our blog on How to Teach Your Dog to Cross the Street for even more safety tips to keep your dog safe while enjoy the sunny days of summer! 

 

Best Birthday Presents for Dad from the Dog

/0 Comments/in /by

 

From the end of June through the first week of July my family has a slew of birthdays. In two short weeks we celebrate 4 birthdays and the 4th of July, including Dad’s.  It’s always fun showering gifts upon your loved ones, so why not throw in presents for Dad from the dog? I mean, you can’t have too many gifts, right?

Sling Back Messenger Bag – Perfect for walks or hikes; Dad can stash all the things he needs including poop bags, cell phone, and treats for everyone.

Doggy Print PJ Pants – After a long day Dad will love getting comfy in these dog print pajamas. He will be hanging out with his canine pal in style.

 

The Dogfather T-Shirt – This clever shirt is perfect for any Dog Father.

 

Best Dog Dad Coffee Mug – An epic coffee mug for an epic dog dag.

Sorry I Pooped in Your Shoe Coffee Table Book – An amusing and sweet collections of letter from the dog.

 

Our dogs are a big part of our family, so why not include them in the gift giving?  Throw in their own dog safe birthday cake and then they will truly be a part of the celebration.

What are you favorite gifts from the dog, let us know in the comments below! 

 

How to Teach Your Dog to Cross the Street

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

It’s summer time and most of us are out and about, enjoying the nice weather. Even if you’re not big on the outdoors, it’s easy to still find yourself walking your dog through the neighborhood more now than ever. But making sure your dog is safe while walking around busy streets is imperative. So, just how do you ensure your dog’s safety and enjoy a nice sunny day where you have to cross the street a time or two?

  • The best method is to teach them to sit before crossing a road

The most effective way is to start training before they are 16 weeks of age. Although, you can train them at any time, but earlier is always better. Take them for walks and cross the street while implementing sit commands and giving treats. This will give them positive reinforcement for stopping and sitting before they cross the road.

  • The next best is to teach them to go “down” when you command if you see a car coming

If the sit command isn’t going so well, you can try and teach them to stop and lay down whenever you see a car coming. Telling them to go down will help avoid them running out into traffic after a squirrel or whatever it is that has his attention.

With both of these techniques it’s good to practice at home and out on the road when it is safe. Using treats and praise will go along way in likelihood of them following the commands when needed most.

 

Also, make sure to check out this video from eHow.com on how to cross the street safely.

As pet parents we all want to protect our dogs as much as possible and when you have a spirited pup on your hands, that can be kind of difficult. However, you can teach them a few commands that can help keep them safe when you have to cross the street.

All of our dog walkers are trained in how to safely cross the street with pets, so if you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us and we would be happy to help show you a few tips.

How Do I Keep My Dog Safe on the 4th of July?

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

It’s almost time for that beautiful American celebration where households all around the nation fire up the grill, stock up the fireworks and pick out a watermelon. Most of us love the chance to relax with our loved ones and enjoy an extra day off work while celebrating how great it is to live in the USA. However, it’s not always the safest or greatest time of year for our pets. So, make sure you remember these safety tips to keep your dog safe of the 4th of July.

1. Don’t bring them to a large party or fireworks display

If you’re going to a good friend or family member’s BBQ where you dog is very comfortable and it won’t be too loud, then, by all means, include them in the celebrations. If you’re going to an unfamiliar place for your dog with lots of food and festivities it’s best to leave them at home. The same goes for any type of firework displays, even if they are on your own block. Your dog will not like or appreciate being included for this event, so just leave them at home where they are much more comfortable.

2. Set them up a safe and quiet area at home

You may have an especially active firework-loving neighborhood and if so, make sure your dog is as far removed from the commotion as possible. This is can also be helpful for if you’re having a BBQ or party at your house. They can easily get out in the shuffle of guests, get into the trash, or even worse, get into alcoholic or poisonous substances while everyone preoccupied.

Put them in a bedroom or laundry room (with toxic items placed high on shelves) and turn on some ambient noise like a soft radio or TV.  Include their favorite toys and bed with some treats and water. This will help keep them safe and calm while the festivities can continue without worry.

DO NOT TIE THEM OR LEAVE THEM IN A FENCED BACKYARD

Once the fireworks go off your dog can panic leading them to try to jump a fence or even get tied up and choke on their leash.

 

3. Update ID’s and microchips

This is a good time of year to get new collars and tags and to make sure that their microchips are up to date just in case they do happen to get out during the celebrations. If your dog happens to get out during the party, once the fireworks start you never know how far away they could run. It’s important to make sure they can be ID’d and brought home ASAP.

 

4. Use calming items like Thundershirts and soothing music

If you know your dog is nervous around loud noises, consider some preventative measurements. Thundershirts are like wraps that make your dog feel secure. They work for around half of dogs. Smoothing music or television may help drown out some of the noise.

 

Keeping your dog safe on the 4th of July isn’t too hard, just follow these few simple steps to help make them comfortable while you relax and enjoy your family and friends!

 

What Does a Yellow Ribbon Tied on A Dog’s Collar Mean?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Photo from Doghealth.com

Have you ever seen a dog with a yellow ribbon tied around their leash or collar? When I first saw it, my mind immediately went to that old Tony Orlando song, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon.” Naturally, I then thought maybe the dog’s owner was deployed in the military and the family was showing support.

Later that day I thought about it while poking around on the internet and decided to Google it. Well, turns out that also naturally, I was wrong.  I mean, it’s not like a dog is a tree, so of course it’s not the same. I guess that’s not my finest assumption, but now I know and I’m glad I do, especially as a mom of a very curious three year old.

If you see a yellow ribbon or bandanna tied on a dog’s collar or leash it means that the dog needs “more space please,” and to proceed with caution if you want to interact. It’s particularly helpful for parents and children to know when a dog isn’t exactly keen on being petted or approached by strangers.

A dog may need space for a few different reasons:

  • They may be in training
  • They could be newly rescued and not comfortable or recovering
  • Have a health issues, like sickness or anxiety
  • They may be in heat
  • The dog is old and tired
  • Overall they just aren’t that social

 

Basically, this Yellowdog Program was started for sensitive dogs; to make it easier for people around them to know that they aren’t exactly the “come up and pet me” type of dog. It’s helpful for everyone in identifying dogs that don’t want attention from strangers.

Some people tend to shy away from this program and think that all dogs deserve space and certain dogs shouldn’t be singled out to be left alone. While you should always ask before you pet someone’s dog, it is helpful to know whether or not to even ask in the first place.

Let us know if you’ve ever seen a dog with a yellow ribbon or use one for your pet. If so, how many people know what it mean?

 

 

 

 

 

What do Different Colored Collars and Leashes Mean?
Contact Us to Set up a Dog Walk

What Does a Pet Sitter Do?

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

 

You have finally decided that getting a pet sitter is right for you and your pet. But at the same time you are wondering, “what exactly does a pet sitter do?” While we do have one of the most rewarding jobs someone can have, we do much more than love and play with animals all day. There is a lot that goes into professional pet sitting than meets the eye.

Yes, we give TLC including cuddles, walking & playing with pets.

Our primary concern is taking care of your pet’s immediate needs; walking, feeding and giving them love and attention is our first concern. But we also are trained for emergency situations, CPR, plus other important knowledge in case your pet was to fall ill while you are away.

We also do a combination of other helpful tasks for your pet and home.

  • Our sitters are trained to be able to administer any medicine needed
  • We can provide hospice care for older pets
  • Overnight visits
  • When you’re away a pet sitter can give your home a “lived in” feel by leaving lights on or opening/closing blinds
  • Cleaning litter boxes
  • Changing water/food bowls

It’s good to know your home and your pets are being looked after, especially when you’re going away on vacation. You never know what kind of situation can arise while you’re not at home; pipes can burst, HVAC units or power can go out and pets can get stuck in any manner of places. That’s why having a pet sitter is even more beneficial than just a walk, a few belly rubs and fresh food.

Pets who have pet sitters or other pet care services (such as walking) are happier, get more exercise, have less stress and more socialization, plus they have healthier urinary tracts and diets.

Contact us today to find out more! 

 

Valentine’s Day Gifts For Cats

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Is your kitty your Valentine this year? What do you get him or her? Cats generally don’t like chocolate or roses, but these gifts are sure to win your cat’s heart over. Here are some great Valentine’s Day gifts for cats.

Catnip 

Most kitties love catnip! Catnip can be a great Valentine’s Day gift for cats. For a gift sure to please buy or make your kitty a catnip toy. Making a catnip toy at home is easy.

Catnip sock toy:

  1. Start with a children’s or small sock, catnip and a needle and thread
  2. Fill the sock with catnip
  3. Sew the top of the sock closed with the needle and thread
  4. Give the sock to your kitty

Another great catnip gift is fresh catnip. You can find fresh catnip at pet stores or grow it from seeds.

Treats 

Treats are awesome Valentine’s Day gifts for cats. A cool new treat is flaked tuna. These are thin flakes of freeze dried tuna that can be fed as treats or as a topping for food. For some homemade treat ideas, check out our previous blog posts on Valentine’s Day treats for cats.

Collars 

A new collar is a fun Valentine’s Day gift for cats. Many cats will love a collar with hearts on it (and maybe a bell). Be sure to fit the collar correctly to keep your cat safe.

Furniture 

A cat tree is a sure win for Valentine’s Day gifts for cats. For a new cat tree check out your local petstore. For a smaller gift try a new cat bed or scratching post. Want to make a homemade cat bed? Take a small box and decorate it, with lots of hearts using construction paper and child-safe markers. Place a pillow in the box and you have a wonderful DIY cat bed.

Valentine’s Day can be a great holiday to share with your cat. These Valentine’s Day gifts for cats are sure to make your cat’s day.

What Are the Best Fort Collins Dog Trails?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Fort Collins dog owners are very lucky to have many friendly dog trails to choose from. There are a variety of trails in city natural areas and parks, county parks, and state parks. Here are some of my favorite hikes with dogs.

Lory State Park- Well Gulch Nature Trail 

This trail is a beautiful 1.5 mile hike through a variety of terrains. The trails has some slow climbs and downhills. There are also many waterfalls along the way. I would recommend this trail because it is not steep or very technical, it is fairly short, and has great views.

Fort Collins Natural Areas- Maxwell Natural Area

The trail in Maxwell Natural Area leads to the A. Taking the foothills trail to the overlook trail will take you and your dog up to the A, with a great view of Fort Collins and Horsetooth Reservoir. This hike is about 4 miles round trip but is lots of fun. It starts with a walk through rolling hills, then you begin climbing up the mountain. The climb is not too steep or technical. I recommend this trail because it has great views, has wide trails, and has few cacti along the trail.

Horsetooth Mountain Park- Horsetooth Falls

Horsetooth Mountain Park has many trails, but the Horsetooth Falls Trail is one of the easier trails. This trail is an out and back, with the whole trip being about 2.4 miles. There are many ups and downs on this trail but few steep climbs. At the end of the trail is a waterfall (sometimes a small trickle) with a water pool. This trail has some narrow portions so be aware of other trail users. I recommend this trail because it is a good workout, and ends in a very pretty waterfall.

These are my favorite trails for dogs in Fort Collins. Most trails in Fort Collins are dog friendly, but few like Bobcat Ridge and Soapstone Natural Areas are not. Always be aware of wildlife and other hikers. Check out our previous article on heat stress in dogs and have a great hike with your furry friend.