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ホーム > Articles by: Above1 Support

10 Reasons Why Chihuahuas are Awesome 

Posted on by Above1 Support

Chihuahuas are small, affordable, fun, loyal and easy to care for pets. Check out these 10 reasons why Chihuahuas make a great pet!

With their small heads, big eyes and perky ears, Chihuahuas are one of the most recognizable dog breeds. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider a Chihuahua:

1.    Chihuahuas Stay Small

For small dog lovers, chihuahuas are a dream. They typically weigh between two and six pounds and grow to be seven to nine inches in height. While different breed mixes might be a little larger or smaller, chihuahua parents enjoy all of the perks of having a fun-sized pet.


2.    Chihuahuas Have Long Lifespans 


While small dogs tend to live longer than larger dog breeds anyway, chihuahuas enjoy particularly long life spans averaging 13 – 15 years.


3.    Chihuahuas are Loyal 

chi next to owner


Chihuahuas are known for many things and being loyal to their pet parents is one of them. Chihuahuas enjoy spending quality time with you whether it’s sitting on your lap during your leisure time or taking a ride around town with you.


4.   Chihuahuas Have Fun, Playful Personalities 


Though chihuahuas are loyal and affectionate with their owners, they are anything but dull and love to play! However, no two chihuahuas are the same, so if you have a friend with a chihuahua, your pet is likely to be quite different and unique.


5.    Chihuahuas are Smart & Easy to Train 


Most dog breeds are bright, but some are brighter and easier to train than others. Chihuahuas in particular are a bright breed and are, in turn, easy to train for obedience.


6.    Chihuahuas Generally Don’t Mind Playing Along 

chi dressed up


One thing pet parents love doing is dressing their fur babies up for special occasions or just to keep them warm and cozy. Being the loving, loyal and easy to train pets that they are, chihuahuas have no problem wearing clothes whether it’s a cozy sweater and paw-protectant booties or a Batman costume for Halloween.


7.   Chihuahuas are Great Guard Dogs 


Because they are loyal and animated, chihuahuas make great guard dogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, your chihuahua is going to make sure everyone knows about it.


8.   Chihuahuas are Affordable to Feed 


Because of their small size, it logically follows that chihuahuas are easy and are affordable to feed as they do not eat a lot.


9.    Chihuahuas are Easy to Care For


Not only are chihuahuas easy to feed, but they are also easy to bathe and to groom. They only need about 20–minutes of exercise per day, which they can easily get inside of the house or on a walk around the block on a lead.


10.    Chihuahuas Come in Many Breeds and Breed Mixes 


Finally, the chihuahua breed has a lot of diversity. There are seven different chihuahua breeds, and there are multiple chihuahua breed mixes. Chihuahuas physical characteristics tend to prevail in breed mixes and mixed-breed pets often enjoy the genetic perks (such as increased health) associated with whatever breed they are mixed with. 

chi dressed up


If you’re looking for a pet that’s easy to love and to live with, chihuahuas and chihuahua mixes are your best bet! Not only are they loyal and fun, but they are also affordable and low-maintenance. When you feed them a food made with natural ingredients like the Small Breed recipes at Wellness Pet Food, you help keep them healthy, which cuts back on vet visits and keeps them alive longer. 
 

Share your photo of you Chihuahua by tagging @wellnesspetfood on Instagram!

 

Cooking with Koda: Sweet Potato Cookies

Posted on by Above1 Support
Cooking With Koda

Since moving back home to the Pacific Northwest, Koda has had to learn what it’s like to not be the only puppy in the house. To remind him how much we love him, we like to surprise him with these delicious homemade treats, stuffed with his favorite Wellness pet food snacks!

ingredients

 

Ingredients

Each of the ingredients in these treats were specially chosen for their benefits to dogs. Sweet potatoes are great for your pup’s digestive health because they’re high in fiber. They’re also low in fat and contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese.

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Beta-carotene converts to Vitamin A in your dog’s body, which is essential for good vision, growth, and muscle strength. 
 
Carrots support good dental health in dogs, contain vitamin A, high in fiber, and they promote good eyesight. 

Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. They are also great for your dog’s digestive health. 

Peanut butter could be optional in this recipe, but it’s one of Koda’s favorite treats, so I like to spoil him with a couple scoops of natural peanut butter.

Let’s get started

These “cookies” are super simple and easy to whip-up. You can do everything in one bowl for easy clean up and they can be customized to fit your pup’s needs or preferences. 

Koda literally couldn’t wait for these treats to come out of the oven, we caught him licking the bowl or stealing bites off the tray.

cookies

What You’ll Need

1 Sweet Potato

1 Grated Carrot

1 Egg

2Tb Peanut Butter

CORE Pure Rewards Turkey Jerky Bites ( or your pup’s favorite Wellness Treats)

Parchment paper

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°

Peel, cook, and mash a sweet potato. 

Shred a carrot using a grater, pre-shredded carrot could work too. Squeeze the shredded carrot in a kitchen towel to remove some of the moisture.

Add the carrot to the mashed sweet potato. Add the egg and peanut butter and mix to combine. 

Fold in a handful of Wellness Pet Food treats.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and spoon batter into 1 inch “haystacks.” No need to leave much room in between each cookie as they will not spread.

Bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

cookies2


 

Tame Your Cat’s Hairballs

Posted on by Above1 Support

Hairballs aren’t welcome in any home – or in your cat’s stomach. Keep them under control with these tips!

hairball

Hairballs aren’t welcome in any home – or in your cat’s stomach.

It can be a common occurrence or a special occasion, but as parents to our beloved kitties we all freeze in terror when hearing the approach of an impending hairball attack.

This unmistakable “hack” roughly translates to: “Warning! Be prepared for a wet, hairy mess that will land in your general vicinity or that of a recently cleaned carpet!”

via GIPHY

Tips to Keep Hairballs Under Control

hairball infographic

 

Digestive Health Concerns

Hairballs can be a result of your cat’s regular grooming routine, but they can cause problems with her digestive health.

Typically, the hair your cat swallows forms into what we call a hairball and is eventually vomited up. But, on top of the grossness that hairballs come standard with, your cat may not be able to get rid of it through the usual methods of expulsion. If the hairball gets too large, it can cause problems within the digestive tract, resulting in bowel obstructions or constipation. In severe cases, surgery in order to have a hairball obstruction removed.

Read more on PetGuide.com. Click the link here.

15 Small Breed Dogs that Don’t Shed

Posted on by Above1 Support

Many dogs have hypoallergenic hair or fur and don’t shed! This list comprises 15 of the best small dog breeds and small dog breed mixes that don’t shed.

Small Breed Dogs That Don't Shed

All dogs are delightful, but cleaning dog hair off your clothes, couch, car seat, etc. probably doesn’t bring you joy. For dog lovers who want the companionship without the hair and fur cleanup, we’ve compiled a list of the fifteen best-loved small dog breeds and the small dog mixed breeds that don’t shed.

small breed dogs that dont shed

1. Bichon Frise 

Bichon Frise, a name that translates to “curly lap dog” in French, is a petite, easy-to-maintain breed characterized by a hypoallergenic coat that doesn’t shed and only has to be clipped every so often.

2. Bolognese 

Like the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese is a small, cuddly lap dog with a soft, fluffy coat. Like many small dogs that don’t shed, regular grooming is still important to keep this pup looking and feeling good.

3. Brussels Griffon 

The Brussels Griffon is a companionable, loyal, and loving breed that can have a rough or a smooth coat. In either case, shedding hair isn’t an issue; though, regular grooming is needed.

4. Chinese Crested 

There are two varieties of Chinese Crested hairless and powder puff. Both are low-maintenance; however, Powderpuff Chinese Crested shed minimally. All varieties of this bright, focused dog are hypoallergenic.

5. Cockapoo 

Considered the most popular small mixed breed dogs, Cockapoos, which are part Cocker Spaniel and part Poodle, are not only unlikely to shed, but they’re also family-friendly and are easily trained.

6. Havanese 

Originally hailing from Cuba, Havanese are small, fun-loving, friendly dogs with curious eyes and lush coats that don’t shed.

7. Maltese Terrier 

Thought to be related to Tibetan Terriers, another great small non-shedding breed, sweet and spunky Maltese Terriers are characterized by beautiful, silky coats that don’t shed.

8. Miniature Schnauzer 

Helpful little guard dogs, miniature Schnauzers are smart and loyal and are easy to care for thanks to their hypoallergenic coats that shed minimally.

9. Poodle 

Poodles come in all shapes and sizes and are one of the most popular breeds and breed mixes in the world. Poodles are bright dogs with curly hair that not only doesn’t shed but is also odorless and is hypoallergenic.

10. Scottish Terrier 

Often referred to as Scottie Dogs, Scottish Terriers, like most terrier breeds and mixed breeds, are hypoallergenic and require minimal grooming. A wonderful, independent and loving dog, Scottish Terriers do shed minimally,

11. Shih Tzu 

Loyal long-haired Shih Tzus have beautiful coats that are reminiscent of a lion’s mane. Unlike lions, there’s nothing fierce about these little dogs that don’t shed other than when they are brushed.

12. Shih Poo 

Shih Poos are a mixed breed small dog with silky, curly hair that doesn’t shed, a genetic gift from their Shih Tzu and Poodle influences. Shih Poos tend to have big personalities and tend to be big fun to love.

13. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless )

Mexican Hairless dogs are a rare, ancient breed that have little to no hair. Any hair will be found on their head. Like other hairless breeds, though shedding isn’t an issue, protecting your dog’s skin from the sun and from other elements is something you’ll want to consider.

14. Yorkipoo 

Yorkipoos are a breed mix of Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles. They tend to weigh less than 15 pounds as adults and have a hypoallergenic non-shedding coat, a benefit of having genetic influence from two small dog breeds that don’t shed.

15. Yorkshire Terrier 

Yorkshire Terriers or Yorkies are petite, fun, playful, and loyal pups with low-shedding hypoallergenic coats.

Of course, there are other small dog breeds and small dog breed mixes that have hypoallergenic and or minimally–shedding hair or fur. As with all dogs, particularly those that don’t shed, regular love and grooming is necessary to keep them feeling and looking their best. Of course, that’s a small price to pay…who wouldn’t prefer to brush and groom their dog instead of their furniture?

small breed dogs that dont shed

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and types, and every dog is wonderful and is deserving of a healthy, nutritious meal to keep their coat (whether it sheds or not) lush and healthy. That’s why Wellness Pet Food’s recipes are not only natural but also nutrient rich, to ensure your dog has what they need for comprehensive wellness .
 

Essential Oils and Cats

Posted on by Above1 Support
Essential Oils and Cats

Essentials oils, which are plant extracts that contain a large quantity of rapidly evaporating oil, have become increasingly popular as natural, organic solutions for a variety of mental, physical and emotional maladies. Research by the scientific community has validated the overall health benefits for humans using essential oils; however, many people presume that that what benefits people also benefits cats.

This is a misconception. Essential oils are largely considered toxic to cats and using them around cats merits a great deal of education and good judgement.

How Do Essential Oils Affect Cats?

Essential Oils and Cats

Essential Oils (EOs) have not been studied on a massive scale in felines because of the ethical concerns associated with studying a known toxin on a live animal. Existing knowledge and understanding is sufficient and for veterinarians, aromatherapists, and others with expertise in using and administering EOs in cats to concur that they are unsafe. This is true regardless of the type of oil and is especially true for oils boasting insect / pest repellant properties.

Toxic effects of EOs in cats include but are not limited to:

  • Triggering an existing condition such as asthma, upper respiratory disease, or skin allergies.
  • Irritating eyes (watering) or noses due to aggravation.
  • Developing dermatitis.
  • Causing seizures.
  • Liver failure, kidney failure, heart failure or other organ failure .

In particular, EOs are most dangerous and are potentially fatal to cats if they are administered to a cat’s fur or skin, or if they are ingested. Experts have yet to conclude if oil diffusers are “safe”. Diffused oils are oils that are vaporized or in areosol form.

How to Use Essential Oils around Cats

Essential Oils and Cats

Currently the only method that is accepted for using EOs around cats is with a diffuser. While some say that they have diffused oils around cats for years with no negative impacts, others are concerned about the long-term lung and organ damage that could prove harmful long-term.
That said, if you do want to diffuse oils around cats, it is recommended to:

  • Use for a limited period of time
  • In a relatively airy room (opening a window if possible is advised)
  • In an environment where the cat has the option to leave

Most importantly oils should always be stored in a safe place where cats cannot be exposed accidentally. If a cat is accidentally exposed because of a spill or by knocking over a diffuser, it is important to seek veterinary help immediately. 

What Are the Sign a Cat has been Overexposed to Essential Oils?

It is important for anyone using oils to recognize the signs that a cat is affected by EO exposure. In the event that you observe any of these signs, immediately take your cat to the vet. Try to gather information as to what kind of oil the cat ingested, inhaled, put their paws in, or got on their skin. Signs of a problem include:

  • Mental function changes such as lethargy
  • Neurologic changes like wobbling, difficulty walking, weakness, shaking, seizures
  • Digestive issues such as drooling or vomiting
  • Physical distress like pawing at the face, red patches of skin, difficulty breathing, coughing, low (cold) body temperature, and slow heart rate.

In some cases, death can happen spontaneously after exposure, so it is important to be very careful when using EOs with cats. It is also recommended that EO enthusiasts get their cat tested for allergies or upper respiratory infections issues they may not have been aware of before using oils.

To conclude, it is possible to safely diffuse EOs with cats with discretion and care. Taking steps like consulting with a veterinarian beforehand and making sure to diffuse in a well-ventilated area where your cat can leave are two steps in using essential oils with cats in the safest possible way.

While essential oils have shown to be beneficial for human health, the same isn’t true for cats; however, cats do benefit from a diet rich in natural ingredients made using safe processes such as the recipes created by Wellness Pet Food.

 

 

Adopt a Shelter Pet Day: How to get involved

Posted on by Above1 Support

April 30th is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day and what better to celebrate than by adopting a shelter animal!  This is also a great opportunity to educate yourself about why shelter pets are the best, or to share the wealth of knowledge about what makes adopting a shelter pet great! While statistics are as much the mind’s best friend as dogs are man’s best friend, the truth is adopting a shelter pet is a matter of heart. By adopting a shelter pet, you not only save a life, but you also make a friend for life!

What Makes Shelter Pets the Best?

Shelter pets are animals that enter shelters for various reasons. These could be abandonment, lack of a home, abuse, or a person’s inability to provide care. Of the 7.6 million animals that enter shelters across the US every year, the majority are loving, loyal, and hopeful that you will take them home and will love them too.

Adopt A Shelter Pet: Cat

There are multiple breeds and ages among shelter pets; puppies and kittens as well as purebreds and mix breeds are proliferate in shelters. Sadly, of those pets, 2.6 million (1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats) are euthanized. While one person cannot save them all, many people working together and choosing to adopt shelter pets can impact those grim statistics.

For example, in addition to shelter pets being loving, loyal, and companionable:

  • Many shelter pets are already house trained.
  • They have been socialized and can safely interact with adult humans, children, and other animals.
  • They have been vaccinated and spayed or neutered.
  • Not only that, but shelter pets, unlike purebreds, cost next to nothing versus hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Where Do I Find a Shelter Pet to Adopt?

Adopt a Shelter Pet: Dog in crate

Finding and adopting a shelter pet is not difficult thanks to the Internet. There are several websites that make it easy to find the kind of animal you are looking for in a within a given area. A few reliable sources are:


Note that working through some of these finder sites may add to the cost of finding a pet. However, it is still far more cost effective than buying from a breeder or at a store. Never mind the fact that adopting a shelter pet means that you are saving a loving animal’s life!

How Do I Prepare to Adopt a Shelter Pet?

Adopt a Shelter Pet: small dog

While some people are sure they want to adopt a shelter pet from the word, “go,” others aren’t as sure. If you believe you will adopt a shelter pet, there are some things you need to have on hand for that magical moment your new pet comes home with you. These items include:

  • Locating a veterinarian
  • Pet food
  • Food and water dishes
  • A pet bed
  • A pet carrier or a pet leash (or both) depending on the pet (bring this to the shelter)
  • A litter box or designated place to use the restroom
  • Pet toys (including a stuffed animal and heating pad to help your pet feel at ease in their new home)

Preparing for your new pet before he or she comes home will make the adoption process flow much more smoothly.

How Do I Adopt a Shelter Pet?

The actual adoption is as easy as finding the right pet. You can start your search online as explained, or you can visit a nearby shelter to get the ball rolling. Once you find a pet who could very well steal your heart, ask to meet him or her. Someone at the shelter will help that pet out of their enclosure and will let you and that pet interact.

When you meet a pet you bond with and you want to adopt, you complete the necessary administrative paperwork and such, obtain any records the shelter has regarding your new pet’s vaccinations and so forth. Before you leave the shelter and head home, make sure you get a photo of you and your new pet to document the beginning of your beautiful happily-ever-after together.

If you are in the market to adopt a pet, shelter pets make incredible friends. They are loving and loyal, and they need your love and your help. Celebrate Adopt a Shelter Pet Day on April 30 by doing something kind for a shelter pet. Wellness Pet Food dreams of a world where all pets have forever homes, warm beds, and delicious nutritious meals made with natural.
 

5 Ways to Make Outdoor Excursions with Your Pet More Eco-Friendly

Posted on by Above1 Support
blueridgemutt

Everyone enjoys a fun day out with their pet, especially when the weather is nice. While you are out enjoying nature with your furry friend, wouldn’t it be nice to make those play dates more eco-friendly? 

To help, we’ve compiled a list of five tips to help make sure you and your pet have fun while keeping the planet beautiful.

1. Keep a to-go water bowl

Outings with your pet can be a day-long adventure, and with all the fun, you both need to stay hydrated. There are quite a few single-use and disposable options for plastic food and water bowls. However, make the choice to bring along a durable, reusable vessel to keep pets rejuvenated on the go. 

Kurgo Travel Splash Free Dog Bowl

Image from Kurgo.com

A portable water bottle you can drink from and use to pour into a reusable dog bowl, like the Kurgo Splash Free Wander Dog Bowl, does double duty on the durables front. Keep a bag that’s easy to carry and clean so a heavier reusable plastic or metal bowl doesn’t weigh you down or discourage you from bringing it on your next walk. If being weighed down is a concern, there are many light, foldable containers in the market for pet accessories.

2. Break away from plastic grocery bag waste

While the jury’s out on biodegradable and plant-based plastics being “eco-friendly,” many experts today are optimistic about compostable plastic bags. Plastic bags for pet waste, like most plastic bags on the market today, take years and years to degrade. Multiply that with the number of times you take your pal out for a walk, and you’re looking at piles of plastic.

More likely to break down than conventional plastics, biodegradable poop bags have been found to be quite hardy and less prone to breakage than you’d think. These BioDOGradable bags are an affordable place to start. 

3. Don’t buy – DIY

diy pet toys

We love our pets like family, so when it comes to showing our affection, it’s easy to give in to the desire to spoil them with toys and treats from the store for outdoor play. Many pet toys today claim to be environmentally friendly, be made from sustainably sourced material, or free from potentially harmful synthetics. However, the most eco-friendly products are the ones you didn’t have to buy.

Spend time and creativity, instead of your money, on getting crafty with empty Wellness pet food packaging and common items found around the house to fashion upcycled DIY toys and accessories for your pet.

4. Ditch leather and go plant-based

Of course, there are some things one would rather buy to ensure our pets are safe, happy and healthy when frolicking in the environment, and a sturdy, comfortable collar or leash may be one of them. Instead of leather, which is expensive both monetarily and ecologically, try leads made of nature’s underdog material: hemp.

As far as product lifespan goes, hemp is one of the most durable and sustainable natural fibers on the planet. Hemp also works for dogs that have sensitive skin and allergies, because the material is hypoallergenic. Here are some options for other vegan collars for your pet.

5. Choose pet foods and treats in recyclable packaging

Wellness CORE Mini Meals recyclable packaging 

All Wellness and Wellness CORE soft pouches for dogs and cats are now recyclable with TerraCycle.

Same as packing a reserve of trail mix, fresh fruit, and energy chews for yourself, bringing your choice of healthy pet foods and treats keeps the adventure going in the great outdoors. Keep garbage off the trail and out of landfills by choosing pet food brands that are either packaged in highly recyclable glass or aluminum, or hosts programs that accepts the packaging that isn’t accepted curbside.

Wellness Natural Pet Food takes responsibility for its plastics packaging and makes it easy for pet owners to recycle it for free with the Wellness Pet Food Recycling Program. As of Earth Month 2019, all of Wellness’ plastic packaging, including Wellness CORE and Wellness pouches for dogs and cats are now accepted through the program! Bonus: the more you recycle, the more points you earn in exchange for a cash donation to your favorite environmental charity.

Wellness Natural Pet Food Announces Call for Entries for America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies

Posted on by Above1 Support
TYDTWD

Companies are invited to show off their dog-friendly cultures to be considered for the third annual list of pet-friendly companies in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day®

Is Fido a part of the team at your office? Have happy hours turned into “yappy” hours with the addition of four-legged colleagues? If the answer is yes, Wellness® Natural Pet Food wants to hear from you!

In anticipation of Take Your Dog to Work Day® on June 21, 2019, Wellness Natural Pet Food is curating its third annual list of America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies. For the first time, the natural pet food maker is inviting companies from across the country to tout why they deserve a spot on the coveted list. Any company with a pet-friendly workplace is eligible — and bonus points are given for workplaces that go above and beyond with added pet perks like “Pawernity Leave” for new pet parents, pet health insurance benefits and more.

america's most pet friendly companies

To submit, companies can simply share a photo of dogs in their office on Instagram and explain in the caption what makes their pet-friendly culture unique. Companies must tag @wellnesspetfood in their post and include #TakeYourDogtoWorkDay, #PetFriendyCompanies2019 and #wellnesspetfood in each submission. The call for entries will be open April 3 through April 30, 2019, and companies are encouraged to submit multiple entries during the submission period.

“Since launching our first list of pet friendly companies in 2017, we’ve heard from more and more workplaces that they’d like a shot at the top spot on our list,” said Chanda Leary-Coutu, Director of Consumer Experience at Wellness. “We’re opening up the submission process to make sure every company has a chance to be celebrated for putting their best paw-forward when it comes to embracing pets at work!”

Companies that have been named to the list in prior years have included Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Etsy, Harpoon Brewery, BISSELL Homecare and more.

A recent survey from Wellness found out exactly how important dog-friendly corporate cultures are to today’s workforce, with 51 percent of millennials stating that they would consider a career move for a pet-friendly workplace. Whether it’s conference calls with Fido at your feet or flexible paid time off benefits to take care of a pup, it’s clear that Americans are prioritizing their pet perks.

America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies of 2019 will be announced in June ahead of Take Your Dog to Work Day, which was created by Pet Sitters International and is now celebrated by offices across the country. You can find the full media announcement here.

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The 10 Common Traits of Top-Notch Pet Sitters

Posted on by Above1 Support
pet sitter cover photo

There are times when you need a pet sitter, and it goes without saying that you want the person who watches your pet to be a top-notch pet sitter. Nothing is more distressing than coming home from vacation only to realize your pet’s litter box is full, or your pet’s water dish is dirty or empty, etc. Avoid those nightmare scenarios by finding a pet sitter who has all of these top-notch qualities.

They Love Pets

Top-notch pet sitters love animals. They might not be pet owners themselves because their children or partner has allergies, but they adore pets. It’s easy to recognize a pet lover because their entire demeanor lights up when they’re around animals. They aren’t faking their joy.

They Have a Flexible Schedule

pugs in stroller

A top-notch pet sitter has a flexible schedule, which means they are able to work with you and your needs. What is more, they know their schedule and capability and can be honest during your consultation if they can pet sit without much advanced notice. Ideally, pet sitting will be your pet sitter’s only job as this allows for maximum flexibility.

They Are Very Well-Educated about Pets

Top-notch pet sitters are educated. They know about different pet breeds, their specific physical needs and their nutritional needs. They are aware of animal resources in your community such as vet clinics, pet stores, pet-friendly parks, etc. They are knowledgeable about different threats to your pet (such as icy weather or ice melts to dog’s paws) and know how to prepare. They are also up-to-date on pet trends and new discoveries in pet care.

They Are Professional and Have Emergency Care Plans in Place

Your most qualified pet sitters will not only have educated themselves about different pet breeds and their specific needs, but they will also already have a plan of action for what to do in emergency situations. For example, what if your pet runs away? What if they get sick? What if they ingest poison? A top-notch pet sitter will know who to call, where to go and how to respond. They know that pet sitting is about much more than showing up and feeding and walking your pet.

They Respect Your Wishes

woman serving wellness dry pet 
A top-notch pet sitter respects your care plan for your pet, so if you want your dog fed three times a day, they honor that rather than emptying a bag of food and leaving it out all day, for example.

They Are Insured

For top-notch pet sitters, pet sitting is a profession as much as a passion; it’s definitely not a hobby. Truly solid pet sitters have taken the time to get insured because they know that things can happen beyond their control. They may even have formed an LLC or other entity for their professional pet sitting activities.

They Are Experienced and Have Great Reviews

The best pet sitters will have glowing reviews from former clients. They will not be shy about providing references (make sure to vet these). Note that some very experienced pet sitters may only have a few clients to refer you to; however, if those were long-term clients, then that speaks well to their satisfaction.

They Have Excellent Communication Skills

person taking photo of dog
As a pet parent, you want to know how your pet is doing especially if you have to be away for long stretches of time. The best pet sitters are the ones who put your heart at ease by communicating with you frequently when they are watching your pet. They might text photos of your pet to you during the day to let you know that they just finished a walk with your pet or even call you, so your pet can hear your voice on the phone.

They Can Accommodate Your Pet’s Needs

While you might find a pet sitter who will come to your home and pet sit, some pet sitters take pets to their residence (especially when the pet sitting is a long-term arrangement). A top-notch pet sitter will have a home ideally suited for pets–a spacious, fully-fenced backyard for dogs to run around safely, or a scratching post house for cats to climb on, to sleep in and to sharpen their nails on.

They Have a Calming Presence and Bond with Your Pet

person snuggling dog outside 

Lastly, top-notch pet sitters have a presence that pets are drawn to. They are able to put your pet at ease. Your pet should have a positive chemistry with the pet sitter you choose, which is why it’s important to interview pet sitters before you hire them. Let them meet your pet. Watch their interaction.

A truly top-notch pet sitter will also be honest if they do not feel a connection with your pet. Part of the joy of being a pet sitter is spending time with pets that they love. Who wouldn’t want that?

You want the best for your pet, which is why only a top-notch pet sitter will do. The same is true for what’s in your pet’s food bowl–you only want to feed your pet top-notch food, which is why Wellness Pet Food makes natural pet meals, snacks, and treats. Only the best for your pet.

10 Best Spring Break Destinations for Dog Lovers

Posted on by Above1 Support
spring break

Spring break is coming up and you want to take the whole family, but not every vacation destination celebrates pets; however, you want to bring your dog and have lots of fun. This top 10 list showcases the best-of-the-best of dog-friendly spring break vacation hot spots for pet lovers.

Key West, Florida

West Highland Terrier in Key West Forida
You could say Key West is going to the dogs in the best of ways. This tropical destination not only features pristine turquoise ocean water, but it also has lots of doggie to-dos including the Higgs Beach Dog Park where dogs can frisk around unleashed, which means you and your dog can splash in the sun together. There are also dozens of restaurants and other venues (like the Key West Aquarium, the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens and the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum) that welcome your four-legged family members.

Amelia Island, Florida

Golden Retriever on beach
If your spring break won’t be complete without beaches and sunshine, but you also want a quiet(er) getaway, then make plans to visit Amelia Island. There are plenty of beaches that welcome (leashed) pets. Enjoy a quiet week of R&R shopping the local weekend farmer’s market, strolling Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach and playing at the Nassau County Human Society dog park (considered one of the country’s best).

Carmel, California

Carmel-by-the-Sea has been rated the number one dog-loving town in America with good reason. Carmel beach not only have a seemingly endless expanse of sandy shore for unleashed pets to run around on, you can also spring for doggy surf lessons. Enjoy bonfires on the beach, hike dog-friendly trails, dine in dog-friendly restaurants and even go for a dog-friendly spa. Water bowls, dog treats and other pet-friendly accommodations are the norm at Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Galveston, Texas

If you’re looking for a spring break that offers the option for a few beach days as well as intellectual stimulation, then Galveston is your place. Galveston’s “The Strand” is a National Historic Landmark full of charming shops, historical sites and plenty of dining options. Best of all…leashed dogs are welcome tourists. When you’re ready to relax, the Galveston State Park spans from the beach to the bay or take a dolphin tour.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride is probably one of the few places where you’ll stand out like a sore thumb if you don’t have a dog. In Telluride, dogs outnumber people. Spring break in Telluride means lots of shopping options where you and your dog can shop side-by-side (many shops also have doggy treats). Expect plenty of hotel and cabin options, as well as free public transport on The Galloping Goose for leashed dogs. Stay fit and entertain hiking and swimming with your dog in Telluride.

Seattle, Washington

Dog on steps in Seattle Washington
Considered one of the country’s most pro-dog cities, Seattle is an ideal spring break destination for pet lovers. It’s has something for everyone. For foodies, there are plenty of delicious restaurants, breakfast spots, coffee shops and bars that welcome dogs. There are dog parks for those who want to hang out in the city. Meanwhile, outdoorsy pet lovers will delight in the many hiking trail options that allow dogs to bound along. If you stay just outside of the big city, Leavenworth’s Alpine Rivers Inn offers tubing for people and pets alike.

Finger Lakes, New York

If you want to get out of the city and experience nature, bucolic Finger Lakes in New York is perfection. There are 11 lakes where you can canoe or kayak with your dog as well as over 70 hiking and biking trails. There are also culinary trails (cheese, sweets, beer and wine), vineyard for touring and restaurants that serve delicious, locally-sourced fare. It’s the kind of place that puts the “break” in spring.

Austin, Texas

For years, Austin, Texas has been one of the country’s hottest foodie scenes. In addition to being a great place to wine and dine, Austin also has plenty of doggy to-dos that are equally fun for you. With options like West Austin Dog Park, Auditorium Shores and Red Bud Isle peninsula, you and your dog will never be out of options for running and swimming (between eating, shopping and enjoying the live music scene, that is).

San Francisco, California

dogs running on beach in San Francisco near Golden Gate Bridge

Some of the country’s most innovative cuisine comes out of San Francisco, but an even more delicious reason to visit is that the city is highlighted as being one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US. Several parks (including Golden Gate Park), restaurants, beaches, hiking trails, stores and hotels are highlighted as being dog-friendly. Most notably, the W Hotel provides a special gift basket for traveling pets that features food, a water bowl, a mat and a treat from housekeeping.
Pets enjoy the same health benefits of a much-deserved vacation as you. Also like you, they experience physical, mental and emotional health benefits from a balanced, natural diet complete with meals, treats and snacks like those made by Wellness Pet Food. So, treat your pet to great quality food and a spring break adventure with you.

About This Page

Pet Type:

犬

Topic:

季節の話

Date:

19/03/2019

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