If you are planning to go out of town for a weekend getaway or for a much longer vacation and are not able to take your pet along. The best thing is to ensure that during your absence your pet’s stay is enjoyable and easy as much as possible. You can do this by hiring a pet sitter. But before you get one it is better to prepare for a checklist for hiring, so that during your absence your furry pal has the best comfort available. Some of the things that need to be kept in mind include:

Vacation itinerary

This would include the time and date of your departure and expected arrival.

Contact information

Ensure that you give your cell phone number, hotel information and room number in case you need to be contacted by the person you have hired.

Contact numbers of your immediate family members

There may be a possibility that the pet sitter might not be able to contact you. In such a situation, they should have an emergency contact number of your immediate family members who can take responsible decisions in your absence.

Key & security alarm information

Ensure that you provide requisite information to the pet sitting professional about the security of the house during your absence.

Primary vet information

Include the name of the practice and veterinarian they can contact providing clinic address and phone number.

Emergency vet clinic information

If there is an emergency with your pet after the primary vet’s office hours, the pet sitter should have an emergency animal hospital’s information which can get the pet treated quickly thereby easing the tension.

Feeding & walking schedule

As a pet owner, you know the feeding and walking schedule of your furry companion. In your absence, this task needs to be done by the person you have hired. Hence, provide him with the requisite information so that he/she can maintain the schedule of the pet in the best possible way.

List of treatments and usage instructions

If your pet is undergoing any treatment specify the instructions, so that the treatment can be given on time. This ensures that your pet does not miss out on the dosage in your absence.

List of food & treats

Although you might have made an arrangement of pet food in your absence it is always better to tell the pet sitter where they can procure the pet food in your absence. If your flight gets delayed or due to unforeseen circumstances you are not able to reach home on time, he/she should know where to procure pet food for the furry pal.

List of pet care items

Give the detailed directions about where have you kept different pet care items like brush, food, cleaning pads, sweater (if it is cold outside) and leash.

Favorite toys

Inform about the favorite toys of the pet so that the pet’s mind can be diverted easily.

Dangers Along Walking Route

Always specify if there is any unfriendly pet around in the neighborhood or if a neighbor yells if your pet pees in the yard. By telling them these things you can ensure that the pet sitter knows how to handle the situation if there is a need.

Room and furniture limitations

Provide a list of rooms or furniture that your pet is not allowed in or on.

Visitors

Always inform about the estimated date and time of visitors in the house like a house cleaner, lawn care company or pool person. This is particularly important so that your pet sitter does not think that your house has been broken into.

When your pet is well-cared off during your absence you will have a more enjoyable and carefree trip. The pet sitter will also have an easy time taking care of your pet. So, the next time you decide to go for a vacation without your pet do not forget to prepare a handy checklist for your pet sitter.

Termed as man’s best friend, dogs have long been taken up as the member of the family who like anyone else needs all the attention and caring in the world. For those who have dogs as pets, the health of latter seems one of the most important things on the list. Animals have unique physiological structures, and therefore need specific food and nutrients to keep them in optimal health.

Science has advanced a lot when it comes to nutritional supplements for pets. But just providing expensive supplements is not enough. It is imperative to know the exact dosage, based on the diet, age and breed of the dog before providing them with pet supplements. Excess of anything is bad and the same applies to supplements that are given to dogs.

Here are some of the general supplements, and their right dosage:

Fish Oil: Loaded with Omega 3 fatty acids, this supplement can be considered as one of the most important ones for the dogs as it helps in building the immune system, the nervous system, the heart, and help stop inflammation, such as in arthritis and allergies. They also support brain development of puppies and fetuses. Omega 3 is found primarily in fish oil. Most fish oil gel caps have 300 mg EPA and DHA combined large dog formula has 890 mg EPA/DHA in 1.5 grams of oil.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E also has a number of benefits for the dogs and should be given in the right dosage in order to have its actual intended effect on the dogs. Healthy dogs, particularly those eating a fresh food diet, 1-2 IUs per pound of body weight daily (or an equivalent amount less often) is likely plenty. Healthy dogs eating kibble, especially small dogs, might benefit from slightly higher amounts.

For dogs with a variety of health problems, including kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, cataracts, allergies, skin problems, arthritis, and other diseases involving inflammation or the immune system, and for dogs receiving high doses of polyunsaturated oils (PUFAs) such as fish oil or vegetable oils, dosages up to 3-4 IUs per pound of body weight daily for large dogs, 3.5-4.5 IUs per pound of body weight for medium-sized dogs, and 5-7 IUs per pound of body weight for small dogs, may provide additional benefits.

Apart from these the dogs should be given probiotics and digestive enzymes regularly that have a wonderful effect on their health. It helps in giving them a healthy gut and provides a number of other benefits.

Health is wealth

The current health of your cat or dog often determines his or her overall health in the long run. The sooner you ascertain the health of your pet, the easier it will be for you to predict what your pet might face in the future, health wise.

Declining health maybe of natural causes or accidents. Whatever the cause, you should be prepared beforehand just in case the unthinkable happens.

A tiny droplet does amount to something

Over time your pet becomes an integral part of the family that goes without saying and sometimes your best friend as well; money stowed away now will come in handy for their future. You just pay a premium amounting to a few notes out of your pocket each month which will benefit you and your pet in the long run. So, the next time you see the long bill and it is almost always a long one, you won’t be left floundering.

Costs for pet healthcare are on the rise

Technology is becoming better as time lapses, which is why healthcare services for your four pawed companion is becoming expensive. Besides this, some machines often require specially trained staff to operate them and it is you the pet owner who bears the brunt of this additional cost. So, it is always wise to apply for insurance beforehand.

How insurance helps you and your pet

The expenses incurred for obtaining healthcare expenses at one go can be a source of anxiety for some; you might not have money in hand right at that moment. In some cases insurance might be mandatory if the breed you own is the fragile kind; your vet might recommend one for your pet, if he doesn’t you can always discuss it with him.

Tackling emergencies made easier

Times of crisis seldom come knocking. It’s better to opt for insurance at the earliest so you are saved that frustrating moment of nail biting when the digits on the bill stare coldly at your face.

What should you do?

Consider doing some researching on your own to make sure you’ve got the right insurance plan for your cat or dog, else your pet’s vet is a good advisor. Also, everything ought to be clearly spelled out by the insurance provider; from what the insurance covers and the limitations of the insurance. In that manner you will be spared any last minute surprises when you are need.

Do you ever take the time to tell your animals how much you appreciate them?

There are many ways to let them know how you feel.

They do understand everything you say because they are all telepathic.

Remember… even something an animal does that might seem annoying has one or more gifts within it that we can appreciate.

ALL ANIMALS:

• I’m so grateful that you’re here in my life.
• I love to look at you and watch the way you move.
• I love your eyes and the way you look at me.
• When I look in your eyes, my heart opens.
• You are so beautiful to me.
• Your body is so perfect for you; it is the Divine expression of your Soul.
• You are so special to me.
• You teach me so many wonderful things.
• Thank you for your wisdom, your kindness, your energy, and your very presence
• When you don’t feel well or are grumpy, I appreciate the honesty of how you communicate that to me.
• Thank you for helping me to learn to communicate with you telepathically.
• Even when I don’t fully get or understand your message, you generously keep on trying to teach me.
• You have such a generous and noble heart that I’m learning to be more open-hearted just by being with you.
• You make me laugh, and that is so wonderful and healing.
• I love you whether you are happy, sad, mad, or scared, and I’ll do all I can to protect you, care for you, and keep you safe.
• You are precious to me, and I’m so grateful that you are here with me. Thank you.

CATS:

• I love your gorgeous toes, powerful claws, your soft fur, your elegant tail.
• It makes me smile and feel good inside.when I watch you play.
• I love when you give me whisker-kisses, when you knead your paws on my body, and the sound of your healing purr.
• Thank you for using the litter box on a regular basis and for letting me know when something is wrong.
• Thank you for catching mice and for letting them know that they need to move out of the house.
• I am grateful to you for showing me your excellent hunting skills and for keeping the mouse out of my bed while you play with it.
• Thank you for jumping into closets and drawers to show me things that need to be sorted and reorganized.
• I appreciate your independent nature that mixes so beautifully with you expressions of love.
• I’m so glad you’re here with me. Thank you.

DOGS:

• I love your beautiful body, your soft fur, and the way you look at me with adoration.
• I’m so happy when you jump in my lap or cuddle up with me in bed or on the floor.
• I so appreciate it when you come when I call you.
• Thank you so much for letting me know when you need to go out to relieve yourself.
• Thank you for barking to let me know that someone has arrived or that you need me to pay attention to something.
• The sound of your bark is music to my ears.
• You have been an excellent partner for showing and other competitions. Even when we don’t win 1st place, I appreciate the effort you make to please me.
• I’m so glad you’re here with me. Thank you.

BIRDS:

• I love your beautiful feathers, your beak, and legs, your talons, and especially your wings.
• You are so beautiful to me that I want to hug you whenever I see you. Since I cannot hug you as strongly as I want to, I send you energy hugs of love and joy.
• Thank you for your affectionate kisses.
• It makes me feel so good every time I hear you sing with your lovely voice.
• Thank you especially for giving up a life of free-flight to be here with me, living in a cage indoors. What generosity! You are teaching me just by being here, and I am so grateful.
• I’m so glad you’re here with me. Thank you.

FISH:

• I love to watch you swim in your fish tank. It gives me a sense of peace that is very precious to me and that helps me cope with challenges in my life.
• You are so beautiful. The way you move through the water is an elegant dance that fascinates me and takes me away from the busy life I lead.
• Your colors are perfect for you and bring me great pleasure.
• I’m so glad you’re here with me.
• I am grateful to you for being willing to live in a fish tank that’s much smaller than the wild world from which you came. Your generosity amazes me. Thank you.

HORSES:

• You are amazing! Thank you for your enormous generosity and willingness to carry me on your back, even when you may be tired or in pain.
• Thank you for allowing me to sit in your heart chakra where you can feel all that is going on inside my body and my emotions, and for serving me in this special way that only a horse can do.
• Thank you for allowing your free spirit to be harnessed by humans so I can have the pleasure of your company.
• I appreciate all the efforts you make to take care of me when I drive or ride you.
• Thank you for letting me know when something frightens you or when you don’t want to be schooled or ridden or participate in a competition.
• Thank you for always doing the very best you can even when I wish you could do better.
• I am so grateful to you for being with me. Your presence fills my heart with joy and love even when all I can do is groom you and look at you with adoration.
• I love so much to see you run with your mane and tail flying and the joy on your face when you buck and spin and express your freedom.
• Your sense of humor doesn’t always match mine. Still, I love that you have the ability to laugh and to make me laugh.
• Thank you so much for being in my life, for all that you teach me, and for putting up with inexpert riding skills.
• Riding you makes me feel united with the universe, and for that I can never thank you enough.

AN INVITATION:

There are so many different species who live with humans these days.

You might have pet reptiles, such as snakes or iguana, or a pet tarantula, or bunnies. There’s a long list of possibilities.

What do you tell them of your appreciation?

To share, please comment on this post. There are probably some very individual things your animals do for which you are grateful, and I’d love to read about them.

Pet stores are one-stop shops for purchasing a dog, cat, fish, bird, or a smaller animal – plus their food, treats, toys, and supplies. When choosing a shop, animal lovers should be sure it matches up with their specific needs. They should take some time to research local retailers in the area with positive reviews. Additionally, here are a few features to consider in the search for a satisfactory pet store.

Adoption Conditions and Available Services

Pet stores vary in size and products offered. Some may only sell items for small animals like gerbils, lizards, birds, and fish. Check out websites of the companies of interest and call them with specific questions before making the trip. If a pet requires a specific brand of food, especially one recommended by a veterinarian, does the store carry it? Can they order it? If not, move on to other options.

Appearance of Animals

A high-quality pet store should place a premium on keeping its animals healthy, alert, and happy. When walking through the store, do the animals look clean, well fed, active, and enthusiastic? When looking to adopt, the environment must be spacious, clean, and free of odors. None of the living areas should be constrictive or overcrowded; all dogs or cats should be living in a roomy, hygienic, healthy area. Before purchasing a four-legged friend, confirm that it is free of any disease or other health problems.

Friendly, Informative Staff Members

The services provided by the company’s owners and staff members should be gracious and informative. Guests should be greeted by friendly, knowledgeable employees who are there to help and answer questions. They should be prepared to answer any questions about the animals available for adoption or the status of current pets. At the same time, the employees must be able to recognize that when a guest’s pet is sick or injured, they should be talking to a veterinarian or medical professional.

A Local Shop That Cares

Investing in a local retailer that is in the neighborhood is an investment in the community and a convenient solution. Going to a local source for supplies makes it easier to stay stocked on essentials like food, hygiene products, and training tools. In addition to convenience, a good store should be cost-effective. Find a business that sells quality items at competitive prices.

Selecting a pet store doesn’t have to be an exhaustive, time-consuming process. Look for one that is clean and bright, demonstrates clear affection and in-depth knowledge of its animals, and offers a variety of products and services.

Raccoons, opossums, mice, bats, and birds can all be adorable and fun to watch, but some people just don’t understand the potential dangers that these forms of wildlife can pose to their family and pets. An encounter with even a small and seemingly harmless wild animal that finds their way onto your property can result in serious consequences for you, your children and your luxury dogs and cats.

Wild mammals and birds can damage your property, upset trash receptacles and set up nests in your yard, in your shed or even in accessible areas of your home. Certain forms of wildlife carry fleas, lice and ticks and can bring the threat of potentially deadly diseases like rabies.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Family and Pets

Even if you live in an area where wildlife sightings are very common, it doesn’t necessarily mean that there needs to be an imminent danger to your kids, dogs, and cats. In fact, there are some very simple steps that you can take to minimize the potential risk of an unwanted wildlife encounter:

Keep Trash Bins Securely Covered

Squirrels, rats, raccoons, opossums and wild cats all love to rummage through the garbage that contains scraps of food. By keeping trash in tightly tied bags and in cans with secure lids, you eliminate a major source of attraction for wildlife.

Make sure your Fence is in Good Condition

Fixing holes or replacing missing planks in the fence around your property keeps rabbits, raccoons, and many other mammals off of your property. A secure boundary really minimizes the chances for a potentially dangerous encounter between a wild animal and your pets or children.

Don’t leave Pets Outside Unattended

Even with a solid fence, some animals will still find their way into your yard. If your dogs are out roaming for extended periods they have a greater chance of coming across a wild animal that has made its way onto your property. If the animal has a nest or a food source nearby they may become aggressive and look to protect instead of escape. This can result in serious injury to both your pet and the wild animal.

Keep Cats Indoors

Cats are natural hunters and are not necessarily deterred by your fence. If there is a bird or rabbit in a neighbor’s yard, they will likely give chase. A cat who exits the confines of your property is at a much greater risk of injury due to a wild animal attack, but to other dangers (like traffic, poison or traps left out by others for wild animals, etc.)

Ultrasonic Pest Protection

Ultrasonic pest repellents use high-frequency sound waves to drive away a variety of pests, rodents, and insects. For homeowners who are looking for a hands off and mess free method of keeping unwanted pests out of their home, this can be a safe and effective solution.

Ultrasonic repellents are safe for humans and family pets (you can’t hear the sounds, neither can your pets, there are no poisons and no danger of pets or kids suffering the injuries that can occur from snap traps). After the fast and easy initial setup, there is nothing to do but allow the device to work driving away unwanted pests.

In addition to the steps above, simply avoiding contact with wildlife is also a major factor in keeping pets and family members safe. Don’t leave food out for wild animals, don’t intentionally engage with them and never encourage your pets to interact with wildlife.

Even those with the best of intentions and those who have taken the proactive measures mentioned above can still find themselves in a position where a wild animal has entered their home or garage and is posing a potential threat. In these instances, it is important that the situation is handled properly to minimize the risk.

It’s never a good idea to attempt to poison a wild animal on your property. Poison baits have elements that attract wildlife (they look and smell like food), which may also attract your family pets.

Cornering a wild animal is also not advisable. Raccoons, opossums, and birds can all become very territorial, especially if they have a nest nearby. Cornering them can insight an attack, which can result in serious injury for any people or pets in the area.

If a wild animal has set up residence in your home, garage or yard or is posing a threat to your family it makes sense to enlist the help of a professional. A wildlife control expert can quickly analyze the wildlife threat on your property and take the best steps toward removal in a manner that ensures the safety of your family and your pets and with minimal risk to the wild animal.

A trained wildlife control expert can also suggest the best methods for cleaning and sanitize the area after removal and help set up protective measures to minimize the chances of future unwanted encounters.

One of the most common questions a veterinarian will hear is “How will I know when it’s time to say goodbye?” This may be one of the most difficult questions you will ever have to ask your vet and it is certainly one of our most challenging ones to answer. There is no simple answer to this question, but rather a start to a conversation.

Our pets, by nature, have a shorter life expectancy than we do. They also, by nature, do not think about or fear death the way we do. They are too busy living. Animals experience life in the present moment. They sense what is going on in and around them in “real-time” and they are keenly sensitive to the moods, behaviors and emotional states of people, especially the people they love. So if you are suffering with thoughts of losing them, fearing the future, or worried about what to do, they will sense it and suffer right along with you, magnifying their dis-ease. When we pause to consider this time from our pets’ perspective, another more empowering question to ask might be, “How do I want my beloved pet to experience this time we have left together?” What would they want?

Unfortunately, we won’t always have the privileged of even asking these questions, and some will leave us before we’ve had the chance to say goodbye. But when we do have this chance, and we remember a simple truth that all life is transient, imagine this time you have left to share with each other as a gift, an opportunity to express your love and appreciation for them. They will sense it. Feeling your genuine love and gratitude will be the bridge you both need to ease the uncertainty of this time. This sense of love and gratitude will also ease in their transition, because when you are fully present with them, they are too. Then, when they are ready to leave the discomfort of their physical form, while remaining forever in your heart, you will know. They will tell you; just trust yourself to quiet your thoughts and listen with your heart.

Your veterinarian can assist you during this time by providing you with medical information about your pet that can help you understand what to expect. Ask your vet, and share how you are feeling, including what is contributing to any emotional conflicts that you may be experiencing. Remember, though, just like in any healing profession, individual veterinarians will have different capabilities and comfort in dealing with their client’s emotional needs. Your vet may be able to meet those needs, but if not, seek out other resources. New and growing areas in veterinary medicine include emotional support coaching for making difficult decisions and palliative-hospice care for in home management of pets as they approach their end of life. If this is something you are interested in, speak with your veterinarian to see if these are services they might offer or refer you for. Because ultimately, it’s about being present for your pet and remembering that when you love them in the moment, that is their experience too.