Tag Archive for: Wet Noses Pet Sitting

How to Support People Who Have Guide Dogs

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We’ve all seen and maybe even wondered about guide dogs and the people that need them. As you probably already know, guide dogs are used by visually disabled persons. Whether they are fully blind or have low vision for travel safety, these dogs help them traverse throughout the day. And what they do really is very special. Aside from being a loving companion, they are truly a wonderful mobility tool.

According to Vision Aware, “The guide dog is a “mobility aid” that can enable people who are blind or have low vision to travel safely. Guide dogs can guide people around obstacles and through crowds, stop at curbs and stairs, and sometimes even be trained to find a limited number of objects that are within sight when given orders such as “Find the chair,” “Find the door,” or “Find the elevator.” The guide dog user can also train (or “pattern”) the dog to find frequently used landmarks, such as a bus stop pole or a mailbox (source).”

guide dogs

How to you can help support people with guide dogs:

It is interesting to note that there is an estimated 1.3 million people in the U.S. that are legally blind. And that each year 75,000 more people in the United States will become blind or visually impaired (source). However, there are only approximately 10,000 guide dog teams currently working in the United States. We’ve also learned another statistic that shows only about 2% of all people who are blind and visually impaired have worked with guide dogs.

The reason that percentage is so low isn’t just because people don’t feel them necessary. It is actually quite costly to match a dog. It is Guide Dogs of America‘s mission to match dogs with their perfect blind partner, which costs on average about $48,000. While that seems like a lot think of all of the costs involved. From vaccinations and spaying to training and micro chipping, not to mention boarding, feeding, grooming and the matching services themselves. It takes a lot to make it possible. That’s why donations are always appreciated. Also, learn more about donating here in Colorado with the Canine Partners of the Rockies.

Lending a hand at a local facility is also a great way to help. Centers often need clerical/office assistance, puppy sitting/playing and help with marketing events. The more hands helping, the more the available resources can be used to the fullest of their ability.

  • Be Respectful:

Aside from directly helping, you can help every day by being respectful of guide dogs when you see them. Even though the seem very approachable (and are quite adorable in their vests), they are working. So make sure not to try to give them any special attention, treats or pats on the head.

 

No small act of kindness is too little to help guide dogs and their partners navigate through life. Do you have experience with guide dogs? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

 

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Top 7 Father’s Day Presents

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Father’s Day is almost here and why not include all the members of the family in on this special celebration? Whether the guy in your life has fur-kids, non-fur-kids, or both it’s always fun to give your loved ones an extra token of appreciation. So here are our top 7 Father’s Day presents you can get for Dad from the dog!

Dad will be super comfy showing off his dog-dad life to the world!

 

There is no reason both Fido and Dad wouldn’t love this killer Komando Tennis Ball Launching Gun

Give your Geek-Guy a nod to Star Wars with this Dog-Vader Father’s Day Shirt

 

Father's Day

Dad is sure to remember how much he’s loved all summer long with this nice pint glasses.

 

Father's Day

Frame their friendship in this adorable picture frame.

 

Father's Day

Nothing says Father’s Day like a coffee mug for dad!

Father's Day

Hours of fun in the yard or in the park with the classic Chuckit! launcher. Learn all about the ChuckIt! toys from our manager Gabby

Dad is sure to love any of these paw-some presents. Have Fido bring him the paper with breakfast in bed and little something extra just for them. After all, the dog is man’s best friend, right?

See some Father’s Day Activities to do with your dog!

What is your favorite gift to give to a loved one from a pet? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

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Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes – How to Protect Your Pet

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Spring is in full swing and the gorgeous weather has us loving the great outdoors. But that also means that fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are out and about too. If you haven’t gotten your pet’s prevention medicine on them yet this year, then the time to do it is now.

  • Why is it so important?

Mosquitoes, ticks and fleas are pests. There’s no doubt about that. But even more than being a nuisance of itchy red bites, they carry real health risks.

Mosquitoes are the carriers of heartworms. It only takes one infected mosquito to give your dog or cat heartworm disease. While most pets show no symptoms in the early stages, if left untreated, heartworm disease causes heart failure in dogs and lung damage in cats.

Fleas & Ticks are also transmitters of a host of deadly diseases. Fleas transmit very scary illnesses such as the plague, typhus, and parasitic worms, just to name a few. Ticks can cause Lyme Disease, anemia, and paralysis. All of these are very serious.

  • Methods of prevention:

It is far easier to prevent these conditions than to treat them. That is, if you can treat them. There are heartworm treatments for dogs, but is expensive and can have serious side effects. There is no treatment available for feline heartworm disease, so prevention for both species is key. Most commonly you will find oral and topical medications.

Flea, Tick and Heartworm Preventatives  (Source) 
Product Chemical(s) Administration Fleas Ticks Heartworm
Capstar Nitenpyram Oral as needed Yes No No
Advantage Imidacloprid Topical monthly Yes No No
K9 Advantix Imidacloprid/Permethrin Topical monthly Yes Yes No
Frontline Plus Fipronil/Methoprene Topical monthly Yes Yes No
Revolution Selamectin Topical monthly Yes Yes Yes
Sentinel Lufenuron/Melbemycin/Oxime Oral Monthly Yes No Yes

Bathing and grooming also play an important part of keeping heartworms, fleas and ticks at bay. Also, frequently vacuuming your pet’s beds as well as areas they play and lounge in helps to prevent these pests.        

As always, talk to your vet for advice regarding heartworm and flea prevention. All of our pets have different needs and daily lives. Depending on their age, activity level and environment, your vet will help you determine which type of prevention is best for you.

What type of prevention do you use on your pets? Let us know in the comments!

6 Places to Go With Your Dog in Fort Collins

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Fort Collins is a very dog friendly town and there are plenty of places to explore with your pooch. Keep in mind that Fort Collins recently changed its health code rule. That means, often times pet dogs are not allowed inside outdoor patios any longer, but can be right outside the fence.

Sierra Trading Post

Who doesn’t love Sierra Trading Post, the discount outdoor wares store? Now fido can love it with you too. Sierra Trading Post is extremely dog friendly and loves to see pups in their store. You and your dog can check out their awesome pet section and maybe even pick out a new harness.

Bath Garden Center

Does your doggy love picking out new plants (or better yet, picking out new things to pee on)? Then head on over to Bath Garden Center. This store is very dog friendly inside and out and even has their own store foster dog. Just be sure to keep an eye on your dog, you don’t want him peeing on a plant that isn’t yours yet!

Home Depot

This large warehouse store is friendly to dogs. Many dogs love perusing the isles and getting to greet the friendly people who work there.

Jax

This outdoor recreation store is extremely dog friendly. Your dog will love getting to say “Hi!” to the friendly employees and plan for your next adventure with you.

Walrus Ice Cream

While this beloved ice cream shop does not allow dogs inside, they do have a special treat for canine companions. Every Sunday is dog day! Where Fido can get a bit of doggy ice cream to enjoy with you. Busy on Sunday? That’s okay, you can ask for a doggy scoop of vanilla ice cream to share with your dog.

Gryphon Games and Comics and the Purple Cup Cafe

Even though dogs are not allowed inside the coffee area, they are welcome to go into the store and hang out in the game area. Dogs love to go shopping with their folks and enjoy the sunshine!

General Guidelines for Taking Your Pet With You:

  • Always keep your dog leashed, on a hand held (non-retractable) leash
  • Always be under your control
  • Should be potty trained
  • Have all his shots and be healthy (for his and other dogs protection)
  • And be friendly to other dogs and strangers

It’s always fun to bring your pet with you with you’re out an about. Just make sure your pet is comfortable and follow the above guidelines for a good time. Also, brush up on the newest leash laws too.

Do you have a favorite place to take your pet? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Find the best Fort collins dog trails!
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5 Questions to Ask Your Vet at Your Next Visit

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When you’re getting ready for your yearly physical, you probably have a few questions prepared for your doctor. And it’s smart to have them prepared ahead of time. Because if you’re like me, by time you’re in the back room, chances are you’ll forget to ask at least one thing you were concerned about.

The same should go for your pet at their regular wellness checks as well. There are just as many, if not more distractions at the vet. Sometimes that leaves you floundering for words and just hoping to get out unscathed.

Having a few good questions jotted down for easy reference will go a long way in making you get the most out of your pet’s vet visit.

1. Is my pet overweight?

Being on top of your pet’s weight is important. According to the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention, more than half of the dogs and cats are overweight in the U.S. Even though we are almost conditioned to think “a fat pet is a happy pet,” that’s not true. Obesity sets them up for a whole slew of complications such as, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and more.

2. What is the best food for my pet?

This question almost goes hand in hand with the weight question, but it is still beneficial for average weight pets as well. Not all pet food is created equal and some foods have fatty fillers and sub-par ingredients. Tell your vet what food you regularly feed your pet. Also, as they age dietary needs can change. Ask them what they feel is an appropriate diet for them considering their age and weight.

3. Do you have any recommendations for flea/tick meds?

Flea and ticks are not just a problem for the spring and summer. They can actually be a threat all year round. More than just a nuisance, they can transmit deadly diseases too. Depending on the time of year and your pet’s health in general, your vet may have a better way of protecting your pet.

4.Does my pet need a dental cleaning?

Often forgotten, but still very important is dental health. Recent surveys state that an estimated 80% of adult dogs and 70% of adult cats suffer from a least some degree of periodontal disease. If dental hygiene is ignored too long, it can result serious health issues with the liver, kidney, heart. Your vet should have some easy and painless ways to help.

5. Is this normal?

This is the general behavior or health question to ask your vet. It’s whatever may concern you about your pet. Like do they have a quirky behavior, a weird eating/sleeping habit? Or you may be worried about lumps or bumps on their skin. Reserve this question to fit what concerns you about your pet specifically.

A little bit of planning goes a long way in making sure you get all the answers you need. Doctors and vet visits are stressful enough as it is, no need to add stress to it by being unprepared.

Do you have any additional questions you like to ask your vet? Let us know in the comments!

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.

Top Cures for Bad Doggy Breath

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Canine bad breath is a frustrating problem for many owners. While frequent brushing and a veterinary dental cleaning may solve the problem, these are not good for your dog’s smelly breath today. Here is a list of my 3 favorite ways to quickly cure doggy bad breath.

Doggy Breath Freshening treats

Theses treats are sure to become a favorite among dogs and their owners. They are no bake, and coconut oil based. Coconut oil is a nutritious oil that is good for dogs hair, coat, nails and possibly immune system. The add ins for this treat make it even more nutritious and breath freshening.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons of diced fresh mint or parsley (or both)
  • 1 teaspoon of fish oil (Optional)
Directions

Start by melting the coconut oil in a saucepan or microwave. Once all the oil is melted, transfer it to a large bowl and add in the mint, parsley or both. Mix to evenly combine. For a flavor and health boost add a teaspoon of fish oil and mix to combine. Using a ladle, fill an ice cube tray with the coconut oil mixture. Place filled ice tray in freezer.

These treats can be fed frozen or allowed to melt a bit for a softer temperature. Feed 1 per day for small dogs and 1-2 per day for larger dogs.

 

Dental Chews

My dogs is very picky and does not find greenies treats very alluring so we found another breath freshening chew that is sure to please the most picky dogs. We love the Natural Balance brand dental chews. They come in a few flavors including sweet potato and duck, and chicken and papaya (yum) and are all natural ingredients. These chews do not last long (my dog goes through them in around 10 minutes) but there is a noticeable difference in his breath.

Raw Bones

A large portion of canine bad breath is due to plaques of bacteria on the dog’s teeth. Raw bones are a great way to clean the teeth of these plaques and therefore freshen breath. I most often feed portions of beef or bison femur or bison ribs. These very effectively clean my dog’s teeth and keep him occupied for a long time. Raw bones are available at most higher end pet stores, or at a grocery store or butcher. Be sure to pick a bone large enough that your dog cannot swallow it whole and always supervise your dog eating the bone.

While doggy bad breath can ruin doggy kisses, these are 3 ways to help improve your dog’s breath. Bad breath can be a sign of a more serious health issue, so always check with a veterinarian if your dog has recurrent bad breath.

Bulldogs are Beautiful Day

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We know that we don’t really need a special day to appreciate the beauty of bulldogs, but why not take the to celebrate them anyway, right?!  With their short little legs and adorable smushed faces and sturdy physique, they are truly a breed of their own.

 

Early history:

Early Bulldogs have a bit of an interesting and brutal history. Butchers used to use dogs to control control livestock. This can be traced back to the 5th century in England and a breed called the Alaunt. Around the 15th century, bulldogs were used for around farms for catching horses, cattle, and boars. Unfortunately, bulldogs were also used in the barbaric “sport” called bull-baiting, in which trained dogs would latch onto a tethered bull’s nose and not let go until the dog had pulled the bull to the ground or the bull had killed the dog (source). And, thankfully this was finally banned in 1835.

The newer breed:

Well, after the brutality was finally banned Bulldogs found their place in the world. They were still used for herding in the US and Germany and were being bred with smaller dogs, like pugs in England. They slowly made a huge comeback becoming a wildly popular companion and mascot for Universities like Georgia State University and Gonzaga University.

 

Temperament & Training:

Don’t let their grumpy face and stout build fool you. Bulldog are generally they are an easy going breed that gets along with people, other pets and even children. They aren’t big on barking and love to sleep. The AKC Standard says the disposition of the English Bulldog is usually “calm, courageous, and friendly; dignified but amusing.” They are also ranked at the 4th most popular breed according to the AKC.

Even though bulldogs may have a reputation for being stubborn, but that doesn’t mean that they are untrainable. With patience and consistency they can easily be trained just like any other dog. The sooner you can bond with and start to train your bulldog the better.

 

Cute Famous Bulldogs:

My personal favorite is Meatball, Adam Sandler’s bulldog. I may be a little biased because I am a huge fan. Plus, he sent me an autograph picture after I sent him a Valentine’s Day card back in 1996. But here he is, Meatball, the adorable bulldog!

bulldogs

Photo from Adam Sandler

And of course, Ice T and Coco’s beloved Bulldogs Spartacus (RIP) and Maximus. They are so cute with baby Chanel!

bulldogs

Photo from ET

Tillman, who is a skateboarding English Bulldog that happens to hold the Guinness World Record for the fastest 100-meter on a skateboard by a dog. And when Tillman appeared on the show, Greatest American Dog, and he rode the Natural Balance float in the Rose Parade in 2009. And well, that is pretty amazing!

Bulldogs

Photo from Bulldogs World

And no Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day post would be complete without a hilarious YouTube video of them playing around and being silly…enjoy!

Do you have a bulldog? If so, make sure to share your pictures with us! Post on our Facebook page and Twitter, let us know your loves!

How to Help Save Bats in Fort Collins

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Bats are often a misunderstood animal. There are a lot of myths as well as misinformation about how they live and the dangers they pose. It may stem from old the folklore relating bats to vampires and evil. Not to mention the rabies scare, which is not entirely true either. The truth is not all bats have rabies. They have the same probability of carrying the disease as raccoons, skunks or foxes. But the chances being bitten by a bat, let alone getting rabies from one is extremely small. In fact, bats are our friends and our world needs them.

 

How bats are beneficial:

Did you know that bats help to pollinate and also devour of insect pests, especially mosquitoes? A single brown bat can eat 1,200 mosquitoes an hour, and if that’s not a reason to love them, then I don’t know what is!

What is happening to their population?

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are six species in the U.S. that are endangered. On top of that  another 20 are threatened, Unfortunately, bat populations are declining because of habitat destruction, pesticides and fungal diseases and other disruptions from cave explorers.

More than a million bats each year are killed by the White-nose Syndrome.  It thrives in caves and mines, causing bats to wake up too often while hibernating, burning their stored energy and ultimately leading them to starve.

How to help save them:

There are several ways you can help save the bat population. Check out these ideas from the Organization of Bat Conservation:

There are a lot of misconceptions about bats. But the main truth is that our environment needs them and they are dying out. It’s up to us to try and stop the endangerment of bats.

 

What to Know About Owning A House Rabbit in Fort Collins

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This is the season of the rabbit. It’s spring and the Easter Bunny is everywhere you look. And what’s not to love about fluffy little bunnies? With their adorable twitching noses, soft fluffy ears and gentle disposition. There is just so much to love! That’s why this is the busiest season for house rabbit adoption. And having a rabbit is very rewarding, but there are some things you should know before adopting one of your own. After all, adopting a new pet shouldn’t be an impulse buy for the season, you should be ready to give them a forever home.

Things to Consider:

  • Housing
  • Litter Training
  • Children & Other Pets
  • Spay & Neutering

Housing & Exercise :

First you need to to consider is where your rabbit is going to live. They are pretty social animals, so make sure to pick a place that will give them space, but still allow them to be near the family. Setting them up with a puppy pen, a bunny condo, or a large area to call their own is essential. If they are going to have a free reign area of their own, make sure to bunny-proof that room. Rabbits are natural chewers and will chomp on furniture, rugs, drapes and worst of all, electrical cords. Make sure all cords are tucked away far from Bunny’s reach. Check out these ideas for rabbit housing from MyHouseRabbit.com Bunnies are social and need lots of exercise. They can’t just sit in a cage all day. There are tons of fun chew toys to get them and make sure to spend time with them every day.

Litter Training:

If you’re getting a rescue rabbit, chances are that they have already started the process of litter training. However, they can easily forget their training when the environment changes, but with persistence you can help reinforce their good habits. It is often best to start with them in a cage or enclosure. Then, to make cage time a time for learning, put a litter box in the corner for when your rabbit chooses for a “bathroom.” As they use box consistently and get used to the home, give them a little more freedom.

Children & Other Pets:

Rabbits are great around children. They are patient and mild mannered. But they can live for 10+ years. If you’re buying the pet for you child make sure to think about the future, like going to college, having after school activities or sports. Also, rabbits can get along pretty well with other pets as well. As long as you have another affable pet, then it shouldn’t be a problem.

Spay & Neutering

As it is with our cats and dogs, it is important to pay and neuter your rabbits as well. I mean, the saying about them did happened for a reason, right? Check out this list for all the places in Fort Collins where you can get your rabbit spayed or neutered.

For more information make sure to check out My House Rabbit. They have all the information you need about owning a rabbit.

Do you have a house rabbit in your family? Share you stories and pictures on our Facebook page!