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Well, it depends but preferably no.  I’ve been pet sitting for 19 years now and one thing holds true—cats will not ration themselves on food during a vacation, in fact, they tend to eat more than they normally would when you are home and the hustle and bustle of average day to day happenings.  Hey, I can relate, I tend to snack more when I’m home bored with nothing to do!

If your kitty normally eats a measured portion of food on a daily schedule, that is what their minds and bodies will be expecting. They will not be able to rationalize that you are gone, and the pet sitter is feeding a larger portion for every other day visits so they shouldn’t eat it all at once. It just doesn’t work like that-not for cats who are creatures of habit. For their best mental and physical health, it’s best to keep their routine as close to normal as possible when you do need to be away. 

Usually what we end up seeing is the kitty eats all of the doubled up portion of food at once, then they vomit it up. Now they have no food to eat until the next visit which can cause stress induced gastrointestinal upset resulting in more vomit or diarrhea.

Did you know that Fatty Liver disease can come on as quickly as 24-48 hours with deadly consequences if a cat goes without eating?  This very serious illness often affects kitties that have extra weight on their body but can happen to any cat.  That’s why hiring a professional pet sitter that knows to look for signs and symptoms such as jaundice or lethargy is so important!  Would the neighborhood kid or your brother know to look for these signs?  Additionally, having more frequent visits would allow for closer monitoring of food intake and prevention of health issues related to gorging or not eating.

One of our jobs as a pet sitter is to keep that routine for your pets. Routine equals comfort and safety to our pets. Think about how we, as humans, rely and thrive with routine-when you wake up in the morning, is that steaming hot cup of fragrant coffee in your favorite mug on your mind pretty quickly?  Or perhaps that feeling of contentment that comes when you settle into your warm cozy bed at night and fluff the pillows just right. It feels good right?  We want our pets to have that same peaceful comfort by keeping their schedules as close to normal as possible!

So as a pro who has seen it all, I highly recommend keeping your kitty’s normal schedule with daily, or even twice a day visits to maintain their feeding schedule and human comfort.

If they are free fed, I still recommend daily visits to ensure eyes have been laid on the water, house settings, and general kitty health. Things like power outages, appliance failure, kitties getting into mischief or shutting themselves in rooms without food or water access, getting their collar caught on things are all possibilities. Daily visits offer the best chance of making sure those things are caught quickly. 

For kitties with more frequent feeding needs, if you feel it is cost prohibitive to have your pet sitter come twice or more a day, consider investing in a high quality automatic feeder (in addition to daily pet sitting visits). Though not foolproof, they are becoming more tech savvy and easier to monitor with your phone in case of malfunction or power outage. It is still wise to have your friendly APP sitter come for daily visits to be sure your kitty is safe and sound, hears human noises, and everything is well in your home!

For example: 

: SmartFeeder,Automatic Pet Dog and Cat Feeder,6-Meal Auto Pet Feeder with Timer Programmable,HD Camera for Voice and Video Recording,Wi-Fi Enabled App for iPhone and Android https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N5BBFZY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_i_WM27Fb65EB9EZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 

Even though some kitties appear to be super independent, maybe even aloof, they still thrive on routine. Anything can happen while you are away and having eyes on your home and fur babies on a daily basis can alleviate your worries and theirs! 

Amber Clay

Most people have some ideas about the kind of pet they want based on an idealized impression of what pet ownership means. For instance, someone who enjoys spending time outdoors may decide the ideal dog is a large, active breed that they can take hiking or teach to catch a Frisbee. Another would-be owner might decide the best choice is to buy an intimidating dog that will scare off intruders, while someone else may have their heart set on a lap dog or a cat that does well on its own. There are many factors to consider, including cost. Pet ownership shouldn’t be a financial burden, so be watchful for opportunities to save money on food and supplies and avoid pet-related damage that could cost you money down the road.

Size

Size is probably the most obvious factor in choosing the right breed. Bringing home a German Shepherd or Malamute may be appealing, but this makes little sense if you’re short on square footage and don’t have a yard big enough for a big dog to run and play in. By the same token, it might be difficult to keep tabs on a small dog if you live on a property with lots of acreage. If you have a carefully landscaped yard with lots of flowers and shrubs, a dog that loves to dig may not be a good choice, while a nervous breed that likes to chew on furniture and does damage indoors is a poor selection if you have a lot of antiques and nice things to protect.

Your Availability

Be careful about buying a pet that needs a lot of attention and likes to be played with, especially if you have to be away from home a lot. You could end up with an unhappy animal, so consider hiring a pet sitter for the times when you’re away. Do your research to find a sitter who offers the right kind of services. One good way to save money is to look for a neighbor who has dogs, or by asking a friend or relative to watch your pet while you’re away.

Supplies

Pet care requires plenty of food and the right supplies, including brushes, toys, water and food dishes. It can be a costly proposition. One very effective way to save is to use online deals such as Target store cash back offers. Not only can you expect great savings, but you can also save time by having pet supplies delivered straight to your door by using a promo code. It’s a convenient and thrifty option that should fit most budgets and schedules.

Climate

You may have gotten used to living in a hot climate long ago, but a furry dog with plenty of hair is likely to have a low tolerance to high temperatures and humidity, requiring him to spend too much time indoors. Keep grooming in mind — hairy dogs that do a lot of shedding need to be brushed thoroughly to be comfortable and to keep all that dead hair under control. Save money by covering furniture with plastic or sheets that will prevent hair from accumulating and protect against general damage. Bear in mind that if allergies are a problem for someone in your family, a dog that does lots of shedding could cause serious issues.

Acclimating and Bonding

You can usually save money by adopting a rescue pet, but be aware that this animal will need a lot of attention and time to get used to its new surroundings. Establish a dedicated spot for its belongings (bed, food and water dishes, toys, etc.) so your new pet has a safe haven when it’s feeling anxious. If you’re trying to be budget-conscious, look for things like used tennis balls and old rubber toys rather than investing in new toys unnecessarily. Always make time to bond with a new pet, especially puppies and kittens, who love to play and need exercise.

There are websites that provide a pet-owning “quiz,” which you can use to find the right dog or cat for you. You can make a responsible decision by being honest about your living situation and how much time you’re able to spend with a pet. Being honest about the process will help ensure that your new family member will be happy and comfortable in its new surroundings.

Jessica Brody

Ourbestfriends.pet | jessica@ourbestfriends.pet

Here you are again, phone in hand, dialing the handyman. You’re on a first-name basis by now and are starting to feel like you should just sign part of your check over each week. This is great for them, but not so much for your poor bank account. It’s time to stop giving your money away. You don’t have to call a contractor for everything that happens at your house, and you don’t have to be afraid of the toolbox. Here are some common home repairs that look harder than they are and some advice on how you can manage them yourself

Odors and Carpet Stains

A universal truth for pet owners (and the parents of human children) is that urine is part of the package. And sometimes, accidents happen on the carpet. If your first instinct is to soak it up with a towel, you’re already on the right track. However, instead of stopping there, create a quick solution of 1:1 vinegar and water. Pour this on and around the affected, and make sure it gets down to the base of the carpet. After about 15 minutes, grab another clean towel and absorb the excess moisture. Sprinkle with baking soda and vacuum after 15 to 20 minutes. Vinegar is the key to this trick and is what neutralizes the offensive odors.

Cracked Tiles

Whoops, there goes another porcelain tile. These tiles can crack when moving furniture or if the subfloor becomes warped or isn’t hard enough to maintain integrity. A single broken tile might not be a big deal to you, but if you plan to sell your home, it will be the first thing your buyers notice. Fortunately, these are not difficult to replace. You’ll need a small handheld saw (or angle grinder or you’re feeling aggressive), a chisel, and a hammer. DenGarden.com walks you through the steps in this article. Hint: Head to the hardware store for premixed grout and tile adhesive. If the rest of the tile is stained and dirty and doesn’t match the replacement, plan to spend some cleaning the floor to remove discoloration.

Broken Stair Spindles

Stair spindles are the vertical rods that keep your railing in place. These can break if they get hit too hard while moving big, bulky items up and down the stairs. Many homeowners would just let the broken piece sit there indefinitely, intimidated by the possibility of removing the entire top rail to replace the single slat. Guess what? You don’t have to do that. In fact, it’s a much smaller job than it initially appears. Pull the broken piece out and then grab a drill (now’s the time to invest in a good one) with a thick bit to deepen the top hole. This will allow you to insert a new spindle and no one will ever know. Once the new rod is in place, add some glue and paint when dry.

Busted Wall

You kicked the door open with your foot since your hands were full of grocery bags and now you’ve got a gaping door-knob-sized hole staring at you. No problem. As Popular Mechanicsillustrates, a piece of drywall mesh, some sandpaper, and a jar of drywall compound can fix things up. Larger holes take a bit more work, but if you’re careful, take your time, and allow the putty to dry completely before sanding, you can have a seamless wall once again.

 

These and many other home repairs aren’t that hard to master, and doing them yourself can save you from busting your home maintenance budget. The most important thing to keep in mind is to take it slow. And if you mess it up, you can try again until you get it just right.

 

Jessica Brody

Ourbestfriends.pet

info@ourbestfriends.pet

Infographic provided by our friends at:

https://www.andymohrtoyota.com/

We love our pets. But, like children, having a dog makes it a little more difficult to keep your house clean and show-ready when it’s time to sell. Keep reading for tips on how to get through the process without completely alienating your four-legged friend.

 

Stage for success

Ask any realtor, and they will tell you that the way you stage your home plays a huge role in how it’s perceived by your potential buyers. When you have a dog, this will go far beyond moving the furniture and opening drapes. Start by clearing each room to the point where it becomes easy to clean and vacuum on a moment’s notice. You may wish to swap out any old bedding for something that is pet-hair-resistant. Keep your yard clean by picking up after your pet each time he does his business. Chemical burns on the grass may be prevented by pouring water over fresh urine. Remove photographs of your pet and make sure their outdoor area looks neat and tidy. If you have a dog house, pressure wash it and add a fresh layer of cedar shavings to its interior and exterior.

 

Board Your Best Friend

 

No, you don’t really have to get rid of your pet – at least not permanently. However, it is never a good idea to leave your dog on the property when strangers are around. When you have an open house planned, consider boarding your dog with a private service provider. You can also establish a relationship with a drop-in dog sitter who may be able to help get your dog out of the home during pre-scheduled showings. This person may be also be able help with small cleanup tasks to eliminate pet odors prior to each home viewing.

 

Cleaning tips

 

Any time you’re showing your home, it should be in pristine condition. You can simplify and speed up the cleaning process by hiring professionals to give the house a good deep cleaning. Expect to pay between $116 and $235 for this service. If you must do it yourself, you can reduce your time spent cleaning by limiting your dog’s access to the main living area. Restrict his sleeping quarters to one location, where you should also keep his toys and food. This will make it easier to keep track of the messes he’s tracked in and to gather his belongings when you need to vacate quickly.

 

Since dogs leave behind a telltale scent, you should be prepared with plenty of baking soda, vinegar, and other natural cleaning products that eliminate – not cover – odors. Sweep your home twice each day and vacuum every morning before you leave the house, paying attention to corners and baseboards, where pet fur can collect. Invest in an air purifier (which can be purchased for under $100) to help remove the hair and dander from the air that can make things look dirty and trigger an allergic reaction in particularly sensitive buyers.

 

 

Dog-friendly places when you need to get away quickly

 

While most realtors will request a 24-hour notice for showings, that may not always be possible. When you need to leave your house and don’t have time to board your pet, consider spending an afternoon in the sun at a dog-friendly park. Always call ahead to confirm the area you wish to go is pet-friendly.

 

A note for buyers

 

Buyers —  you also have manners that must be followed when home shopping. Avoid the temptation to drag your dog along with you. The sellers may have allergies, and your pet is a liability. Find a friend to look after Spike while you trek in and out of open houses.

 

With a little preplanning – and some elbow grease – your home can be an inviting place for buyers and remain cozy and comfortable for your entire family.

Aurora James

information@dogetiquette.info

Dogetiquette.info

Are you thinking of letting your cat stay outside every now and then? If you are, then you’re probably wondering how you can keep your cat safe outdoors.

Now, there are many reasons why you’re worried about letting your cat stay outside. Most pet owners fear the following:

These are just a few things that some fellow pet owners may warn you about when it comes to taking your cat outside. In fact, there are even vets that would tell you to let your cat stay indoors to avoid such things from happening.

However, if you really want some time outside with your fur baby, there are definitely ways to keep it safe. Read on as we will give you seven tips to ensure a worry-free wander with your feline friend.

1.​Get Your Cat Vaccinated

Getting your cat vaccinated could be as important as getting human babies vaccinated before you even consider letting them go outside. It’s advisable to wait at least after a week from finishing the first course of your cat’s vaccination.

There are two vaccines that are considered essential to cats. First is the Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP) or also known as the distemper shot. This will protect your cat from the three common diseases mentioned.

The second shot is for anti-rabies. This is important especially if there are reported cases of rabies in your area.

Take note that rabies can be caused by different animals that your cat may come across with. This is also important to avoid infecting humans with rabies as this can be passed on through bites and scratches.

You can still ask your vet about other shots that may be necessary as it may differ in different states or places.

2.​Let Your Cat Wear an Identification Tag

This should be one of the first things you should get once you own a cat as this is the most helpful if in case it runs off. If cats get lost, this is what could help other people locate their owners.

With this said, it’s important that you make sure the details on the tag are updated when needed.

3.​Let Your Cat Enjoy Outdoors with Your Supervision

This is very important, especially if the outdoors you have in mind is your backyard, the park or your

street. Cats have the tendency to get lost as they can get easily distracted. Under your supervision, you can make sure that you know what your cat is doing and who your cat is mingling with.

If you can, train your cat to walk with a leash so you can both enjoy a walk together or enjoy the park together. Just make sure that the leash is something comfortable.

4.​Build an Enclosure

This is best if you have the time and budget to make sure that your cat won’t really get away or have encounters with animals that carry any disease or virus.

Once an enclosure is built, it is even possible to let your cat out with minimal to no supervision as this would really make you sure that your cat won’t go anywhere.

5.​Have Your Cat Microchipped

Before getting your cat microchipped, you need to know that it’s not exactly like a GPS. Inserting a microchip in your cat’s skin is basically almost similar to making it wear a cat collar or tag with your details.

This said, always make sure that your details are updated to make sure that you get reunited with your fur baby if in case it runs away and is found by someone who decided to have it scanned for a microchip.

If you’re worried about a microchip getting into your cat’s organs, you really shouldn’t because it is only implanted skin-deep.

6.​Keep Your Cat Entertained

If you plan on letting your cat stay in the outdoors for a few hours, make sure you have it entertained for it to not get away. It’s good to get its toys or cat trees to play with during the time it is outdoors.

Another good option would be empty boxes. Cats love to hide and these boxes would make a good place for them to hide and squish themselves.

7.​Get Your Cat Checked Every Now and Then

It’s not really necessary to have cats checked every month. It’s advisable though to have them checked by a vet at least once a year. But if your cat spends a lot of time outside, then it’s best to at least have it checked every quarter.

The moment you feel like something is amiss, do not hesitate to bring your cat to the vet. If in case it gets worms, parasites or food poisoned, immediate medication has to be done.

Should You Really Worry?

As a pet parent, it’s unavoidable to stress on unnecessary things. But letting your cat enjoy the outdoors shouldn’t make you too worried.

This is something that would not really get you or your pet in trouble. As long as you take the necessary precautions, you should be able to enjoy every second of it.

 

Miranda LaSala, content editor at PurringPal

3 Top Tips For Dog Owners To Keep Your Home Clean On A Budget

There are many advantages to having a dog: companionship, comfort, fun, and the unconditional love of your pet to name just a few. However, even the most devoted dog owner will admit that there are also some downsides. Among these, cleanliness and hygiene are probably one of the most frustrating.

How do you keep a house clean when there is a furry friend leaving dander, fur, saliva or worse all over the place? And how do you do it without spending a fortune on expensive cleaning products or a house cleaner? These three tips will help you get there while saving time, money and effort.

Get The Right Vacuum

As a dog owner, you need a vacuum cleaner that is designed to effectively deal with pet hair, as many models will simply leave the fur behind. This is especially true if you have carpet flooring, which tends to trap fur and dander. Water filtration vacuums are ideal cleaning machines for pet owners who might suffer allergies from pet hair and other environmental factors. Most importantly, these models are designed to clean up wet and dry messes from carpets and rugs as well as clean dirt particles from the air.

Make sure you shop around extensively when picking out your vacuum cleaner. Many cost-friendly options are available, and you can often find deals and sales on the higher-end models. The best time of year to buy a new vacuum cleaner is spring as many retailers promote spring cleaning sales, but the November sales are also a good choice.

Reach For The Kitchen Cupboard

Special chemical cleaning products are designed to be safe for your home, but they often come with a significant price markup. Instead of reaching for an expensive bottle of disinfectant or deodorizing spray, try out some DIY cleaning solutions that you can find in your own pantry.

For example, baking soda is an excellent deodorizer and is a great solution for getting rid of dog smells on soft furnishings, upholstery and carpets.

In terms of ongoing maintenance, there are plenty of recipes that will keep your house clean with basic kitchen ingredients. Apartment Therapy has compiled 25 green-cleaning tips here, including special recipes for every room in the house and various home surfaces.

Check Their Health

Dogs have a certain smell to them, and that is perfectly normal. Cleaning the house regularly and a good hygiene routine for the dog is usually enough to keep things under control and not scare your guests away. But what if the stink remains? It is possible that your dog has a health issue making your cleaning job harder. Indeed, health problems can also make a dog drool or shed more than usual, or they could lead to incontinence issues. If you’ve tried everything and something still seems off, then take your pup to the vet.

Vet bills can be expensive, but it is essential to get your dog the care he needs. Cesar’s Way features tips on how to save money on vet bills, including reaching out to pet charities or veterinary colleges.

Keeping your house clean as a dog parent involves some effort, but it is not impossible. The secret is to equip yourself with the best possible tools, but also to understand that these are not necessarily the most expensive or even professional products. By using simple home ingredients for cleaning, shopping savvy for big-ticket items including vacuum cleaners and making sure you are staying on top of your dog’s health and hygiene, you can save money on cleaning while keeping the whole family happy.

Aurora James
information@dogetiquette.info
Dogetiquette.info

 

 

Your First Pet: Add a Furry Friend to Your Home

About 68 percent of American homes have a pet of some kind, a recent study shows. That’s an estimated 84.6 million pet-owning households total. There are many reasons why people have pets. Millennials see their pets as “starter children” on which they can practice their nurturing skills. Parents like to add pets to their homes as a way to encourage responsibility and activity in their children. Older people and senior citizens enjoy the company and unconditional love that pets provide. And some people simply love animals and don’t care to live without the joys of seeing their dog or cat greeting them once they come home.

Picking Your Pet

If you want to make a thoughtful choice about what kind of animal to pick as your future pet, look around your house. This is the environment that pet will spend the majority of their time, so you want to make sure they are compatible. A large and hyperactive dog isn’t going to be comfortable in a cramped apartment. If you are in a living situation with limited space, opt for a smaller breed or even a cat that will be comfortable and happy with what you can provide.

Your lifestyle is also big factor when it comes to picking a pet. If you work long hours and live alone, you will have to pay for dog walkers and sitters to stop by and help with letting your dog outside. For those who want less of a time commitment, cats use the restroom in their designated litter boxes and sleep over 15 hours a day, so you can feel OK about leaving them at home alone.

The Adoption Option

Whether you want a cat or a dog, a large breed or teeny-tiny pet, adopting your pet from a shelter is the compassionate and smart thing to do. The reasons people avoid shelter pets are shallow. However, shelter pets provide the same amount of unconditional love as anyone adopted from a breeder. Furthermore, the animals you find in shelters generally come from mixed-genetic backgrounds, which can mean there is less of a chance of that animal developing a genetic disorder more commonly found in purebreds.

Preparing Your Home

If your home has a backyard but no fence, it is a good idea to work on a secure boundary if you plan on adopting a dog. If you already have a fence, check it for holes and other escape routes that your pup could sniff out.

One thing many new pet owners don’t consider is the amount of cleaning that goes into having a pet. Fur and dander are inevitable, but they don’t have to take over your house. Invest in a quality vacuum cleaner that eliminates hair and removes dander. If you’re vacuuming carpet, you’ll want a model with strong suction power and a filtration system.

First-time pet owners also need to stock up on pet-safe cleaning products including carpet stain remover, antibacterial spray and hard surface cleaners.

Your Pet’s First Day

When the big day arrives and you bring your pet home, it can take a bit for them to adjust to the new environment. Avoid pressuring your pet to spend time in common areas that are full of noise and excess stimuli. Instead, let your pet explore on their own and continue your daily routines. The more normal you act, the faster your new pet will adjust. You can bond with your new pet by playing with toys and giving out treats that make positive associations in your pet’s mind– but don’t put too much pressure on a rescue pet that appears nervous or fearful. Your furry friend will come around on their own with time, it simply takes patience on your part.

****

Millions of people have pets in their home for many reasons. If you are interested in adopting a furry friend, be mindful about your lifestyle and choose a pet that correlates with your environment. Always consider adoption — the benefits outweigh the shallow reasons people choose to go to breeders instead. Prepare your home to make sure everything is secure to keep your pet safe. Finally, let your pet explore their new environment and give them time to adjust. With love and support, they will eventually feel at home with you.

Jessica Brody
Ourbestfriends.pet | info@ourbestfriends.pet

Moving can be a big change for everyone in the family, including your pets. While you’re busy making sure the furniture arrives undamaged and all the details are taken care of, your dog may be having a hard time getting used to the new space and can even suffer from anxiety or depression. That’s why it’s important to try to make the transition an easy one for him, starting weeks before the move takes place.

One of the ways you can help your pup is by confining your packing to one or two rooms at first, rather than having boxes sitting all around. Dogs definitely notice this kind of change and may become upset because something unfamiliar is happening. This will also help you stay organized, which is never a bad thing when you’re moving. Allowing your dog’s belongings to remain untouched until the last minute will also help him stay calm while all the activity is happening.

Here are a few of the best tips on how to help your dog have a safe and easy transition before, during, and after a move.

Let him keep his things

As tempting as it may be to buy all new things for your new place, it’s best to let your dog keep his old things, at least for a while. Having familiar bedding, food dishes, and toys will help him feel more at ease when you introduce him to the new home because he’ll realize that it’s now his home, too. Place items he uses every day in areas similar to where they were in the old house to help minimize confusion, especially if your dog is older or has mobility issues.

Build a fence

Even if your dog isn’t a wanderer, building a fence in your new backyard will keep him safe from neighborhood dogs and will ensure that there aren’t issues with the neighbors or small children. Your pup may be very well-behaved, but it’s difficult to predict how animals will react when they are in an unfamiliar setting. Installing a fence is one of the best ways to ensure your pup stays safe and happy. HomeAdvisor says it costs an average of $2,732 to install or build a fence.

Keep your routines

Dogs are usually routine-oriented animals, so it’s best to let them keep their normal schedule as much as possible before, during, and after the move. Try to walk and feed your dog at the same time every day. Now is not the time to change his diet, so make sure you have his regular food on hand for the move.

Give him lots of love

Dogs can sense stress and anxiety in their humans, and they may take some of it on themselves, especially if the days leading up to the move are long and busy. Give your pup lots of love and attention during this time and be sure to give him positive reinforcement when he does something right. Snuggles, playtime, and long walks are a great way to help ease your dog’s mind about all the changes and make the move easier on everyone.

You can also help your dog get used to the new house by allowing him to stay mostly in one or two rooms at a time on moving day. Not only will this ease his transition and introduce him to all the new sights and smells slowly, it will also keep him safe during the hustle and bustle of the move.

Aurora James
information@dogetiquette.info
Dogetiquette.info