Dec 27, 2023 | Health and Sanitation, Pet Activities, Pet Care
As we enter into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our personal goals and make resolutions for the upcoming months. But as pet owners, have you ever considered making New Year’s resolutions for your furry friends? Our pets are an integral part of our lives and it’s important to ensure their health and happiness in the coming year. So why not set some goals together with your beloved companion? Let’s discuss some achievable New Year’s resolutions specifically tailored for pet owners that will not only benefit your pets but also strengthen your bond with them. Get ready to kick off 2024 with some paw-sitive changes for both you and your four-legged best friend!
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Mar 26, 2021 | Cat Facts, Pet Care
How to Care for a Diabetic Cat
When it comes to house cats diabetes is a pretty common occurrence. Be that as it may, dealing with a cat with diabetes is no easy job, it requires you to pay extremely close attention to your cat’s diet, medication, exercise, and general activities. So be sure not to take it lightly as there is little room for error.
First and foremost you should always be sure to keep in close contact with your veterinarian as they prescribe insulin doses and will help determine what course of action you should take. They should be the first ones to know if you notice something wrong with your cat. Your cat will also need more frequent examinations and check ups. Appetite and water consumption are two of the biggest things you should closely monitor as they are telltale signs if your cat needs a change in dosage.
It’s also very important to pay attention to your cat’s diet. To treat their diabetes you need to modify their diet along with giving them insulin. Diabetic cat food should work just fine as long as you keep track of how much you give them according to your cat’s needs. This goes for cat treats as well, you should try to keep the treat giving to a minimum so as to not disrupt their diet. A good way to keep track of how much to give them and when to do so is to set a reminder in your phone or write it on a post it note and put it somewhere that you’ll be sure to see it.
Handling Insulin Injections
For anyone with diabetes, insulin is a must, including cats. Insulin and food must both be given at the same time. It’s not easy but keep doing it and it’ll become second nature. Change where you inject your cat each time you feed them (Example: Left side in the morning – Right side in the afternoon)
The time you feed your cat and the amount you give them should always be consistent. For example: 7am and 7pm. If their feeding time isn’t consistent then it could cause some really serious problems.
Be sure to reassure your cat when administering insulin and reward them afterwards. Nobody likes getting poked by needles. This goes for cats as well so be sure to give your cat lots of love and affection when giving them insulin. Speaking of which giving your cat insulin is no simple task.
The first thing you need to do is feed your cat (unless the veterinarian says otherwise). While your cat is eating you should prepare your cat’s dose.
- Mix the insulin according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Some insulin requires shaking the bottle, while others need to be rolled between hands or fingers.
- Take the time to clean the rubber stopper on the insulin bottle (alcohol wipes usually work best).
- Prepare the syringe and fill it to the correct dose
- Find a good injection point, pinch the skin into a little fold, and then insert the needle to administer the dose. Be careful to avoid injecting directly into the bloodstream.
Unlike other cats, diabetic felines require a strict schedule and adherence to a regular routine. Consistent structure is critically important to a diabetic cat’s long term health. These kitties should also be monitored for changes in behavior. A dramatic change in blood sugar levels can require immediate attention to prevent long term damage or even death. If you are unable to keep up with your cat’s schedule, or need to leave town, you should hire a cat sitter to check in on your pet. By following these steps along with any other recommendations by your vet, you and your diabetic cat can live a long and fulfilling life together.
Jan 26, 2020 | Pet Care
In the past, there weren’t many options outside of a kennel for dog care when out of town. These days, with apps and websites and online classifieds, many at home dog-sitting options have opened up to pet owners.
But which option is better for dogs and their owners?
Here are a few factors to consider when deciding between boarding your dog and hiring a sitter.
Consider Your Dog’s Comfort
While some dogs take new environments in stride, many struggle when moving from home to a kennel. Additionally, some kennels place dogs in the company of other animals. If your pet has difficulty finding comfort in new environments or meeting new dogs, an at-home caregiver may be the best option! Nothing will make your pup more comfortable than staying in the at-home environment that they are used to.
You Should Consider Security in Your Pet Care Options
Reputable dog sitting apps and businesses may offer dog owners more access and security than traditional kennels. With photo, video, and live stream options, owners can check in on their animal more directly than ever, making dog sitting preferable for some pet owners. With many pet sitting services, owners cab evaluate, and sometimes meet a prospective caregiver beforehand, adding to trust and comfort level of the owner.
In home Pet Sitting Allows For Flexibility
Depending on specific needs, a long and potentially expensive kennel stay may not be necessary. In cases where owners are gone for short periods of time, or out of town every other day, a flexible dog sitting schedule may be preferred! Not only can you schedule pet sitters to come to your home only as often as needed, you can also avoid a trip to the kennel with your pup. One less errand to run is a welcome thing for all of us with busy schedules these days.
While it’s never easy leaving your dog with a new face, but if you weigh these options carefully, you can be sure that your dog will be happy and cared for during your time away!
Dec 15, 2019 | Pet Care
Uncertain about how long your pet can be left alone? While each pet has unique needs, there are some general guidelines for different animals. Here’s some pet-specific advice to get you started!
Dogs
There’s no reliable rule for how long your dog can be left alone. Factors such as health, age, breed, and training all influence a dog’s comfort when alone. Most healthy adult dogs can be left alone for 4-6 hours at a time. Any longer than that, and you’ll want to hire a sitter or dog walker.
Cats
Barring special circumstances, cats can be left alone for around 24 hours. Before leaving them, make sure they have a clean litterbox, plenty of fresh water, and a full belly.
Hamsters
Hamsters should not be left alone for more than 48 hours. With enough food and water, they should be comfortable and safe alone.
Snakes
Snakes are often solitary pets, and do well being left to their own devices for days at a time. That said, the amount of time that you can leave your snake unattended depends on its feeding schedule, the reliability of its terrarium temp/humidity, and its access to fresh water. If you are confident in the sustainability of terrarium conditions, you’ll only need to return home to replenish water or feed your pet.
Birds
Birds should not be left without a check-in for more than 24 hours.
Reptiles
While every reptile is slightly different, most (like bearded dragons and geckos) can be left alone for a day or two, so long as they have a fresh supply of food and water.
Ferrets
Ferrets require a lot of playtime and attention. If a few hours of out-of-cage playing/roaming time are not possible each day, you’ll want to consider hiring a sitter.
Fish
While you’ll want to consider your fish’s specific feeding schedule, almost any fish can be left alone for 2-3 days.
Turtles
Most turtles will be fine without food for a few days, but if you are leaving your turtle for more than two weeks, make sure to arrange for someone to feed them periodically, and monitor the cleanliness of their aquarium’s water.
Nov 5, 2019 | Pet Care
Is work or travel taking you away from your dog more than you’d like? Between apps like Rover and mom & pop pet care businesses, there are many options for getting your animal the care it needs!
But, what does a pet sitter do? Here’s some information about pet sitting to help you decide whether it’s right for you and your pet!
Pet Sitters Provide Basic Care
Pet sitters primarily enact basic animal care. This includes delivering meals, walking dogs, giving medications, grooming fur, and cleaning litter boxes.
Additionally, pet sitters will be the acting first responder in the event of a pet related crisis. If your animal falls ill or gets hurt, they will notify you and take them to the vet!
Pet Sitters Will Exercise Your Pet
Some animals, especially active dogs, need lots of exercise to remain healthy. A pet sitter or dog walker can ensure they receive the care they need. Keep in mind, many pet sitters charge by the hour, so more exercise will mean more money spent.
There is no formal experience or certification for pet sitting. The best way to determine whether a pet sitter is right for you is to talk to them, and have them meet you and your pet in a safe and public space, like a dog park! Hands on experience, dependability, and a knack for dealing with animals are necessary skills for the position, so keep your eyes peeled for red flags, and use your best judgement when selecting a sitter!
Pet Sitters are Better than a kennel
Cats and dogs often experience physical and mental stress when placed in a pet care facility. At-home pet sitting allows an animal to continue with its regular activities, and in an environment where they feel comfortable! Preserving eating, bathroom, and exercise habits may mean a lot for your dog’s body and mind!
Hiring a pet sitter can be stressful and intimidating. Use your critical mind, and talk to neighbors or friends about their experiences before pulling the trigger! There are countless pet-loving professionals out there to help you and your pet, you just have to find them!
