A Kenneling Alternative

holiday

Fireworks and Frightened Floofins

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As most of us prepare to return to a more familiar version of the 4th of July holiday, it is always good to emphasize the potential issues some pets may face from fireworks.

Even the most chill pets may be undone by the loud sounds of explosions. July 5th is one of the busiest days at animal shelters, according to American Humane Association.

The last thing pet parents want is to lose a pet during a fireworks display and risk injury, death, or separation from their home due to a panicked escape. Let’s cover some suggestions on how to approach the holiday with your pet in mind.

  • Indoor time is good. Keep your pet indoors during the display. And if you plan to head out to watch the fireworks outside your home, leave your pet at home. Some pet parents find that thunder shirts or similar products provide relief. But, not all pets will find relief that way.
  • Make sure your pet is properly ID’ed. Microchipping is great, but it never hurts to have additional ID tags on your pet just in case they slip out a door. If you have guests over make sure they are aware of your pet so they don’t inadvertently let them outside.
  • Barbecues are good for people, not pets. There are lots of opportunities for pets to get into products or foods that might cause them harm. Watch out for alcohol, table scraps that might upset tummies or cause more severe damage (we see you ribs and chicken wings), and any insect repellent product not specifically made for pets.

You can check out other ideas for safety from PetMD by clicking on the following link: https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_multi_top_ten_fourth_of_july_pet_safety_tips

Stay safe, have fun, and if possible, hang out with your floofin and make them as comfortable as possible.

National Dog Mom Day Is May 8th

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As a native West Virginian I know the backstory behind Mother’s Day. But did you know there’s a National Dog Mom Day?

Back in 2018, the personal dating app Dig – an app designed for people with dogs – established the holiday. National Dog Mom Day happens the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

While the pandemic may still limit some of the things that can be done to celebrate, we think that any holiday that involves your dog is a winner.

And according to a survey by rover.com, 3 out of 4 ladies consider themselves dog moms, not just pet parents.  [Read more…] about National Dog Mom Day Is May 8th

Making Every Month Dog Training Month

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January may have just ended, but the opportunity to train your dog is good all year round.

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), in 2010, established January as Train Your Dog Month. They picked January because of the large number of pets that were adopted over the winter and holiday months. You can read more about them by clicking here.

Many dogs wind up in shelters due to behavior problems. Concentrating on various methods of training that can be fun for both you and your companion, ADPT provides a variety of resources. Check out all of the options they suggest at https://apdt.com/category/safety-pet-owners/.

Training is something Floofins & Co. feels strongly about. We train our staff before sending them out to work with your floofins. We know lots of our clients share training habits they want our walkers to encourage while on walks, like sitting at intersections and loose leash walking skills.

In addition, many facilities are finding safe ways to continue to provide training classes and activities for your dog. That could include day care services, agility or obedience classes, or individual in-person or virtual training options.

Whatever options you decide to pursue, remember to stay consistent and make it fun. The end result will benefit you and your floofin for many years to come.

Walk Your Dog Month Is Here

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January is Walk Your Dog Month. And what better time to get a routine in place that will bring both health and wellness to you and your furry friend?

There are a lot of really good reasons to get out of the house in January. If you’ve made a resolution to be healthier, movement and exercise (no matter the weather conditions), will be paramount. And once you have established a routine, it becomes easier to keep going as the weather improves. 

Here are some benefits to consider: [Read more…] about Walk Your Dog Month Is Here

Christmas Day In Floofinsland

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It was Christmas Day and all through the land,

Floofins & Co. was out lending a hand.

 

With floofins great and small,

We cared for them all.

 

Furry, feathered, finned and scaled,

We took photos and left notes, detailed.

 

We fed, we walked, we tucked them in.

We played, medicated, even gave insulin.

 

While you, their pet parents, were away,

We stepped in to give them a good holiday.

 

Because to us they are like family.

Even if some of your relatives don’t agree.

 

So we kissed each and every one good night.

And wished them a holiday happy and bright.

 

To care for your floofins is our greatest joy.

It’s better than a BarkBox filled with toys.

 

Thank you for trusting us to care for your pet.

Our hearts are full when their needs are met.

 

Merry Christmas and have a safe trip home.

Good tidings to you, no matter where you roam.

 

Floofins & Co. is here for you,

Because we love your pet, almost as much as you do!

 

Happy Holidays!