Dog Sitter for Vacation Must Haves

If you are planning a trip this holiday season, a pet sitting service can come in handy. Leaving your pets in the comfort of your home will prevent the added stress that can accompany taking your pet to a kennel. Leaving your furry friend with a pet sitter can give you piece of mind but it is also important to clearly communicate your expectations with the pet sitter.

Write Out a Specific Schedule:

Leaving a detailed schedule can really help communicate your pets needs. Typically, pets follow a bathroom, eating and playtime schedule. The role of your pet sitter should be to keep your pets happy and comfortable.

Your Pets' Routine:

This is an extension of the schedule and should outline specifics such as medications, specific treats or meal time specifics. By giving your pet sitter detailed instructions, you allow them to really get to know your pet and their likes and dislikes.

Emergency Information:

In case of emergency, the pet sitter should have the veterinarian's information and some way to get in touch with you. Our pet sitters are all Red Cross trained, however, some pet sitters may not be. It is always a good idea to leave this information, just as you would leave emergency information with a baby sitter.

All of this could also be communicated during a meeting, over the phone or in an e-mail but should be definitely be addressed to ensure that your pet sitter meets all of your expectations as well as your pets expectations and follows through with the orders you have left for them.

2012 Dog New Years Resolution

Have you made your New Years resolution this year? How about a new years resolution for your furry friends? Here are five new years resolutions that can help your pets live a long, healthy and happy life.

(1) Lose Weight

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50% of all household dogs and cats in the US are overweight. Even when a pet is just a little overweight, the added lbs. can have a dramatic impact on a pet’s quality of life. A long term study conducted by pet food manufacturer, Purina, demonstrated that lean dogs live almost two years longer than dogs that are overweight and lead a sedentary life. In addition, the extra pounds results in 80% higher incidence of painful arthritis. “Spoiling” your pet with treats and table scraps may seem like an act of love but why not make the resolution in 2012 to spoil your pets with exercise and attention. It will get you up and moving and your pets will thank you for it. If you are stretched for time, hire a local pet sitter or dog walker to get your pets up and out of the house.

(2) Pearly Whites

Periodontal disease is the most common condition in household pets. More than 80% of pets over three years of age have some degree of the condition. Inflammation of the oral tissues is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar from bacteria in the mouth. Some studies suggest that regular dental care can add two to five years to the life of a pet.

(3) Regular Check-ups

Is your pet up to date with his vet check ups? If not, January is a great time of year to get your pet's annual check-up, routine screening tests, and important vaccinations taken care of.

(4) Control Parasites

Keeping your pets on monthly prevention for heartworm, intestinal worms, and external parasites will help them stay healthy and happy. Look into heartguard or Frontline for your pet, if you do not already.

(5) Improve Nutrition

Have you discussed your pet’s food and treats with your Frisco veterinarian? Every year nutritional research helps advance the quality of pet food available. A good quality ration can reduce the risk of disease. Softer, shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and healthier joints are just a few of the benefits of optimum nutrition. Better nutrition, as with humans, will make your pet feel better and give them more energy to take care of the #1 resolution.