Water safety and your dog

Spring Break is fast approaching and some of  you are headed for your favorite beach or hotel pool! Packing Fido in and surfs up may not always be that easy! Here are a few tips for making sure you both have a great experience.
  Whether your dog is a swimmer or a watcher your dog yearns to be right there playing along side of you.
     Never throw your dog in just as children they need to be introduced to the water slowly,not all dogs are natural swimmers and many body types are not naturally buoyant.
If you have a pool and are just introducing your pet to the water dog proof the area so there won't be any unforeseen accidents.A pool fence or lockable gates can be key. In case your pet is very intelligent teach  them how to get out of the pool by getting in and having them follow you out,do this several times so she or he will know what to do.
Never throw a ball into unfamiliar waters until you check to see what's underneath, rocks or sudden drop offs can be very dangerous and may enhance drowning.
  Just like humans swimming can be exhausting having a life jacket can be beneficial it ensures your pet will be safe and stay afloat. Most important make your dog rest, some dogs will fetch until they drop and tired dogs are more likely to drown or be pulled by the current or undertow. Just like children sometimes they need to be coaxed out to take five.
 Never allow your dog to drink pool water as the chlorine is toxic and will promote vomiting. Same for the ocean, there are many pollutants, algae and salt that can be harmful and make your pet sick.
 Always bring a fresh clean container of water to offer while resting.
 Bring clean towels and cotton balls for drying out your pet's ears lessening the chance of ear infections.
 If possible shower your dog after swimming to rid their body of chlorine and other unwanted pollutants.
 Most of all have fun and enjoy the sun with your favorite pal.

Apartment Pets

I know I always wanted a dog when living in my first apartment with my husband. We talked about it several times but kept coming to the same conclusion it would be best to get one when we had a house and yard for them.
After doing some research I found that the average apartment dogs are between 5-15 pounds and typically have short hair and compact snouts. The most common are pugs and chihuahuas.
Many people opt to keep cats for the same reasons as they are small and mainly quiet and compact creatures.
 I have pet sat for many couples who live in apartments and their pets are well adjusted as long as they are able to get out and exercise regularly and get some playtime.
Make sure when you are thinking about getting a pet while living in an apartment that it is allowed and you follow the rules for where to bring your pet for walks and designated potty areas.Always curb your dog as this makes a good neighbor and pet owner. Most of all enjoy and love your pet they commonly make the best roommates.

Why you should hire a Pet Sitter

Pet sitting is becoming very popular. It is a great alternative to bringing your friend to a kennel or doggie daycare.
Think about all the work you have to do in order to plan your trip. Then there's your best friend don't forget about them.
Having a pet sitter is like having a babysitter for your child.they are nurturing and caring .also an expert in their profession because of their love and knowledge of animals.
Instead of bringing your pet to the kennel and having them on a new schedule where they will  have limited exercise your pet  can remain in the safety and security of familiar surroundings,. Also it can reduce stress and anxiety on both the pet and the owner.
This insures a great trip for you and a great time for your dog or cat. Also, you can count on your pet sitter to bring in the mail,trash,newspapers,dim or turn lights on or off making it seem as if someone is at home and keeping unwanted guest at bay.
 One thing clients seem to enjoy most is their pets being  there to greet them upon arriving home.
Most pet sitters are insured and bonded. References go along way in insuring your peace of mind knowing you did the right thing in hiring a professional to take care of your pets.