A Kenneling Alternative

dogs

Hey! Does Your Dog Bite?

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The answer to that question, I’ve learned the hard way, is always yes! Which isn’t to say that our dogs are out to bite down on any human in sight! Rather, it is something to be especially aware of in the age of pandemic pets.

The second week in April is Dog Bite Prevention Week. So, let’s talk about ways to minimize or prevent a bite wound. 

Dogs have a limited number of mechanisms to communicate to humans when they are uncomfortable. Most of their cues are nonverbal and humans aren’t always well versed in the language. Once they move to growling, the typical follow-up (if that doesn’t work) is a snap or lunge or a bite.  [Read more…] about Hey! Does Your Dog Bite?

Things To Know About Pet Diabetes Month

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Did you know that your pet could develop diabetes? If not, don’t beat yourself up. Most people are not aware that this could afflict their pets. 
According to Merrick Animal Health:
 
“Diabetes affects anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats. The number of dogs diagnosed with the condition has tripled during the past 30 years. Risk factors that may contribute to the development of diabetes include age (middle-aged to older dogs and cats are more susceptible), genetics, breed and obesity.”
So, what should you look for? What are the signs?
  • Lethargy
  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
There are a number of resources available for you if you think your pet may be exhibiting signs of diabetes. You can download a handy checklist; you can download a pet diabetes handbook; or a pet sitter checklist.  If you think you might have a diabetic pet on your hands, take this quick quiz and make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. 

 

 

 

New Year, New Floofins Goals

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A new year is an opportunity to start fresh. A chance to reevaluate where you’ve been and plan for new goals and directions. 

For Floofins & Co. founder, Kristin Skelton, 2020 is not just any year. On April 1st, her suburban dog walking company will celebrate 10 years in business. In addition to that milestone, Floofins & Co. was selected as the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters’ 2020 Business of the Year!

If you think about the times you most need pet care service you can understand the challenges that come from high volume work during holidays and prime vacation periods. Further, everyone has a story about a time something went wrong when they left their pet to the care of someone else. Which means staffing choices are paramount to success. [Read more…] about New Year, New Floofins Goals

Giving Thanks For Challenging Pets

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Despite griping about the weather, the challenges at my day job, and the general obstacles that life throws my way (yeah, I’m talking about you chipped-from-a-rock windshield), I’m extremely fortunate. So, when Thanksgiving rolls around, and we as a country pause to count the blessings of our comfortable lives, I probably name off the same general things everyone else does: family, friends, and the abundances in my life. 

But, I gave it some thought and have to admit that I’m not going to do that this year.  This year, I’m giving thanks for the gift of challenging pets.

Everyone who sees my dog, Ginger, tells me how sweet, cute, well-behaved, or any other variety of complimentary adjectives she is. And the pictures of her on social media are along the same ilk. But, you don’t see the moments that try my patience (of which, I will admit, I have very little to being with): [Read more…] about Giving Thanks For Challenging Pets

National Pet Obesity Awareness Day

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On October 9th, pet owners and veterinarians alike can participate in the activities of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). APOP, according to their website, is “committed to making the lives of dogs, cats, all other animals and people healthier and more vital”.

The APOP was created in 2005 by Dr. Ernie Ward. Dr. Ward promotes healthy weight loss between both pets and their human counterparts.  [Read more…] about National Pet Obesity Awareness Day