by Pam Ranheim | Nov 11, 2020 | dog hiking, dog walking, dogs, Plymouth MA
Life is certainly different these days and our furry companions have been there for us every step of the way. What would we do without them?! With everything that is on your plate let Just Around the Corner ensure your dog gets the exercise, socialization, and enjoyment they deserve through our group dog hiking program. Whether you are working from home, hitting the office, navigating the wild world of virtual schooling, or some combination of these you can take “exercise and socialize the dog” off your to-do list. Instead enjoy your happy, tuckered out, pup without ever leaving the house.
Four reasons to enroll your dog in a hiking program
1. Exercise
Our group hiking program is an hour-long hike spent fully committed to exploring the beautiful trails Plymouth, Ma has to offer. (learn more about trails in Plymouth in our blogs about hiking trails here and here) Keeping a steady pace is sure to give your dog the exercise they long for. The dogs experience both physical and mental exertion from the endless new scents to the ever-changing terrain. Exercise is a crucial component to any dog’s life no matter their age and can even increase their life span. These are just a few of the jaw dropping benefits of exercise.
Benefits of exercise
- Positive for overall health
- Reduce the risks of heart disease, nasty infections, and even depression
- Keep obesity at bay
- Stimulate healthy joints, for ultimately fewer visits to the vet
- Improve behavioral problems
- Lessen chewing and other “bored” behaviors
- Build confidence
Group of 4 dogs out for a hike with JAC dog walker in Plymouth, MA
2. Socialization
Socialization is a wonderful way to build your dog’s confidence. Meeting a new person and building trust with them will expand your dog’s “social circle” which lessens fears and apprehension they may be carrying. Likewise, while hiking they will meet the other dogs in their group allowing them to hang out and play in ways that might not be appropriate at home. Once they have been matched with a group of dogs this will become their “hiking family” week after week. This can help to lessen the alpha dog mentality they may have, making them a happier more well-rounded pup.
3. Car Ride
Is anyone else’s dog OBSESSED with riding in the car? For many of our furry friends the car ride to and from their daily hike is the best part of the group hiking experience. The journey to pick up each of their four-legged pals is like Christmas morning! “Who will we pick up next and where will we go?”, they wonder! The excitement builds until everyone has been picked up and they head to their trail of the day. Imagine your dog feeling so fancy as they are chauffeured around town before landing at the trail of their doggy dreams. Then they hit the ground running with a few of their closest friends! Sounds like doggy heaven to us. We end the hike, of course, with a car ride to return the dogs home safe, sound, and ready for a nap!
JAC mascot, Quinn, ready for his first group dog hike in Plymouth, MA
4. Time Saver
Are you managing working from home, visits to the office, and remote learning, never mind the duties that come along with running a household and keeping everyone under your roof happy and healthy? There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to give the family dog the exercise and socialization outside of the home they deserve. JAC is here to ease the stress of one more thing on your to-do list. Enjoy the happy, tuckered out, post-hike pup and the peace of mind of knowing your dog received the exercise they needed without the stress of squeezing it in.
How the JAC Hiking Program Works
All hiking groups are not the same, and each one has its own way to enroll a new dog. Just Around the Corner takes extreme care and attention to match each of our clients with the perfect group for their dog. These are the 5 simple steps you can expect in our enrolling process:
- Phone Intake: Discuss your dog, their characteristics, temperament, and other prequalifying questions.
- Meet & Greet For new clients and clients who will need to meet a new Dog Hiker.
- Schedule 2-3 one hour long solo walks with the hiker only.
- Match with the group that best works for your dog’s temperament and physical ability.
- Start your dog’s group hiking. Enroll 1-5 days a week based on your preference, same days each week.
*Due to COVID-19 we are currently keeping the groups small, 2-3 dogs per group
JAC employee with a dog hiking group in Plymouth, MA
Ready to sign your dog up for hiking?
Does hiking sounds like it would ease some of the stress of your daily life while making a positive and healthy choice for your pup? Could your dog use more exercise daily/weekly? If your dog exhibits the following traits group hiking might be just the thing for your them:
- Leash trained
- Friendly with other dogs
- Free of any significant health risks
- Rides in the car with ease
If you are ready for your dog to experience the exercise and socialization they desire while saving time, then it is time to enroll your four legged friend. Call 508-245-1389 to start your dog’s group hiking intake today!
Just Around the Corner offers pet care of all kinds, including daily Dog Walking , Dog Hiking, and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
by Pam Ranheim | Sep 23, 2020 | dog walking, dogs, pets, Plymouth MA, puppy
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, National Dog Week! As canine lovers we hardly feel there is a week full of more love, fur, and slobbery kisses than this one. We have an entire week to celebrate the beloved pups that make our lives full, but what the heck IS National Dog Week? NDW is dedicated to celebrating dogs and generating awareness of causes that focus on improving the lives of all dogs. Human personal education and mindfulness as a dog owner, lover, or even an acquaintance is as much a part of this special week as celebrating the dogs themselves. Without further ado let’s jump into how to celebrate this glorious week, shall we?
Volunteer
Volunteer, Volunteer, Volunteer! Local dog shelters and dog adoption organizations always need volunteers especially those passionate about our furry friends! This is something we can do all year round but if you are looking to give it a try for the first time what better time to start? This is a great option for individuals and families with older children to make a big impact right in their own town. Becoming a foster home is also an excellent way to volunteer. Bringing a homeless pup into your life while they wait for their forever home is one of the most rewarding ways to help the dog community. As a starting point below is a list of a few local volunteer opportunities. Happy Volunteering!
Local Volunteer Opportunities
Friends of Plymouth Pound (Plymouth, MA) www.Friendsplymouthpound.org
Papas Pet Project (Manomet, MA) https://papaspets.org/ 774-205-5151
Helping Hands for Plymouth Animal Shelter (Plymouth, MA) 508-888-1186
www.helpinghandsforpas.org
[email protected]
Standish Humane Society (Duxbury, MA) www.standishhumane.org 781-834-4663
Support Local
Celebrate Dog Week by supporting the places your dog likes to shop. Head to your locally owned pet supply store for those special treats for Fido or that new rope toy for Gino. Stores like Papas Pet Project in Manomet, MA are non-profit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of animals. Supporting local businesses with a passion for helping the dog community is like donating and pleasing your pup at the same time, it’s a win-win! Local pet supply stores often have volunteer opportunities as well as strong ties to animal advocacy/adoption organizations. Get to know the locally owned pet shops near you and discover ways you can become involved. If you are in the Plymouth area check out Papas Pet Project & Pet Supplies Plus.
Donate
Donations are the life blood of local shelters, adoption agencies, and advocacy organizations, during National Dog Week and all year long. Whether you donate your time as a volunteer or your money these organizations can’t do what they do without you! Research organizations that interest you and find one that aligns with your beliefs when it comes to the dog community, such as adopting less adoptable dogs or groups with a mission for stopping animal cruelty. Wherever your dog passion lies there is a place to match for you to donate.
Education
Celebrate National Dog Week by giving yourself the gift of education. Read books, blogs and articles dedicated to awareness in the dog community. Discover how you can be an advocate for dogs in a sustainable way all year long. Take some time to understand your own dog or any dogs you encounter regularly. Get to know the breed/mix, learn how to be the best dog owner/friend you can be! Knowledge is power, as the saying goes, what you learn will translate into your daily dog loving life. From understanding the current needs of your local shelters to learning how you can socialize your own dog the list of things to learn is endless!
Break the mold
Okay, so we have talked a lot about how to help the dog community but what about the precious pup in your home? Branch out from your dog’s regular routine and explore new places, friends, and fun! Try a dog friendly trail that is new to you and your pooch (see Dog Friendly Trails in Plymouth, MA Part: 1 & Part 2 for local options). Eat out at a restaurant that loves when you bring your pup, like Stack Shack in Plymouth. Head to the dog park to meet new friends! Does your dog LOVE a special type of bone they only get on Christmas or their birthday? Treat them to one or two during a week devoted entirely to them! Break the mold of your dog’s normal routine and spice it up for them this week.
Time to Celebrate!
National Dog Week is here and it’s time to get out there and celebrate! Whether you volunteer your time, donate, support local, educate yourself, or get out there and experience new people, places and things with your fur baby there is no better time. During your newfound advocacy don’t forget to provide some special touches for the pup that loves you unconditionally at home. Fun new toys and tasty treats go a long way with our fur babies. Let us know how you are choosing to celebrate National Dog Week; we can’t wait to hear from you!
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking , Dog Hiking, and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
Sources
dog.com – National Dog Week article
https://www.facebook.com/NatDogWeek/
by Pam Ranheim | Sep 15, 2020 | dog walking, dogs, pets, Plymouth MA
The sun is out, a light chill fills the air, and the tourists have all gone home. It is a perfect day to explore a dog friendly trail with your precious pooch right here in Plymouth. Summer has faded fast and fall is quickly approaching which means our furry friends are once again welcome to roam on most beaches and trails, yay! If you are looking to spice up your routine with Buster or get Lucy out for a nice run why not hit a wide, well maintained, trail that offers scenic views just minutes from home. On the surface our town is stunning, this we know, but hidden throughout its 100 square miles are trails you never knew Plymouth had to offer. Did you catch Part 1 of our Dog Friendly Trails in Plymouth series? Learn about 5 more totally PAWesome trails that you and your pup will love here.
What to pack?
Anytime we take our dog somewhere there are basics we want to have on hand, right? For example, we can all agree that it is never a good idea to leave home without poop bags. But what about when you are planning for a long-distance hike in a pretty remote location? When you are preparing for a venture to one of these trail locations the list of essentials is a bit more extensive. Being prepared is paramount to ensure the safety of you and your pup as you embark on your new adventures. Download our FREE list of Excursion Essentials for Your Pup and share with friends!
5 Plymouth Hiking/Walking Trails
ATTENTION: Check the Massachusetts Toxic Algae Pond Advisory list before you or your dog enter or drink the water of any pond listed in the following descriptions.
Little Pond Loop @ Morton Park
We could not resist starting the list off with Little Pond Loop at Morton Park. The towering forestry and beautiful blue water of Lout Pond and Billington Sea are unlike any other trail views in Plymouth! The wide, well worn paths make for easy use and keeps social distancing effortless. There are picnic tables and a recreational area near the parking lot at the main entrance. Your pup is sure to enjoy running the open trails and taking a dip before the car ride home. The trail itself is not clearly marked so if you are not interested in exploring a few paths that lead to nowhere we suggest downloading the All Trails app to ensure your 2.7 miles does not turn into 5+. Overall, the beauty, easy to use trails, and variety of activity options in Morton Park make this trail a must use!
Trail Length: 2.7 miles
Address: Morton Park Rd.
Route Type: Loop
Parking: Large lot just down from the main entrance
Map: Morton Park Trail
Cranberry Bogs via Eel River Preserve Trail
If you love observing nature this is the trail for you! The abundance of wildlife in their natural habitat all along this trail is well worth the low land sludge you may encounter. The trail is low lying land so depending on recent weather patterns it may be quite muddy. If you are looking for a lesser known trail to explore all to yourself, this is the way to go! Excellent option for dogs who do not prefer the company of other dogs or humans. Come prepared with your waterproof shoes and bug spray to make this trail a positive experience.
Trail Length: 2.2 miles
Address: 204 Long Pond Rd. Plymouth, MA
Route Type: Loop
Parking: In lot at 204 Long Pond Rd.
Map: Eel River Preserve Trail
East Head Pond Trail @ Myles Standish
Rated the number 1 trail in all of Plymouth according to All Trails, East Head Pond Trail will not disappoint. This picturesque trail leads you around the full loop of East Head Pond. Stunning views of the water and blooming flowers are sure to keep your attention throughout the entire 2.6-mile loop. The flat terrain makes it an excellent choice for all skill levels and all size dogs. Its easy use and clearly marked signs will keep you on the right path without a second thought about it. Note that the trail is a bit narrow, but the light foot traffic makes social distancing easy. Wonderful choice for the whole family!
Trail Length: 2.6 miles
Address: 194 Cranberry Rd. (area of)
Route Type: Loop
Parking: Parking areas along the entrance of the State Park
Map: East Head Pond Trail/Myles Standish
Bentley Loop @ Myles Standish
Measuring in at just under 4 miles, Bentley’s Loop will get the blood pumping and lungs working for you and your pooch. Popular activities on this trail include mountain biking, horseback riding and of course hiking. Most importantly, dogs are more than welcome but must be kept on leash for this loop. Soak up the lovely seasonal flowers and foliage while catching a glimpse of the many varieties of birds who occupy this area. On a trail nearly 4 miles clearly marked navigation signs are a must and Bentley’s Loop does an excellent job of it. While there is no direct access for pond swimming there are a few access paths that lead to various small ponds for you and your pup to take a dip. Be sure to check the list of local Toxic Algae Ponds before letting your dog (or you) dive in.
Trail Length: 3.8 miles
Address: 194 Cranberry Rd (area of)
Route Type: Loop
Parking: Parking area near east entrance off Upper College Pond Rd..
Map: Bentley Loop/Myles Standish
Gramp’s Loop Trail @ Halfway Pond Conservation
Enjoy the gentle hills and impressive forestry while exploring 2 miles of well-kept trail. The hills increase in some areas of this trail making it ideal for larger dogs or fur babies not so low to the ground. Sneak peaks of Halfway Pond and benches at the most opportune times make Gramp’s Loop a wonderful spot for picnicking or an afternoon relaxing in the great outdoors. This is a lightly trafficked trail with clearly marked navigation signs to ensure you are never lost. Dogs are welcome here year-round, so don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
Trail Length: 2 miles
Address: Mast Rd. Plymouth, MA (area of)
Route Type: Loop
Parking: Parking area at entrance of the Conservation off Mast Rd.
Google Maps directions HERE
Map: Gramp’s Loop/Halfway Pond Conservation Area
Tick Check? You bet!
Don’t forget to do a tick check on your pup as well as yourself after every trail adventure. No time of year is 100% free from ticks as they can survive in temperatures as low as freezing. Even if your pet is on a tick preventative you should still give them a once over after having been in wooded and thickly settled areas. Don’t let a splendid adventure turn into a pest nightmare for you or your furry friend. Need more information about ticks? Check out our Blogs 6 Tips to Keep Your Dog and Cat Flea- and Tick-Free and Ticks Trailside
We’d love to hear from you!
Have you been convinced to get out there with your pup and start exploring? Are you feeling reinvigorated to try a new trail in Plymouth? Comment below with your favorite trails, comments, or questions about the trails we talked about today, let us know if you visit one of them. Check back for more local trail info soon!
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking , Dog Hiking, and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
Resources:
www.Alltrails.com
https://www.plymouth-ma.gov/marine-and-environmental-affairs/pages/town-plymouth-trail-maps
https://www.mass.gov/alerts/harmful-cyanobacterial-bloom-advisories-in-massachusetts#undefined
by Pam Ranheim | Aug 12, 2020 | dog walking, dogs, pets, Plymouth MA, puppy
You are getting a puppy! Wow, is there anything more exciting than preparing to bring home a brand-new fur baby? Having recently brought a puppy home ourselves, our puppy Mascot Quinn who is a chocolate Newfoundland, we can say firsthand that it is pretty darn special! You have worked diligently to research and choose the perfect dog for your life and the time has come to prepare for their arrival. If you are still in your search for the perfect pup check out our blog Choosing the Right Puppy (Dog) for Youhttps://justaroundthecornerpetsit.com/choose-the-right-puppy/. Much like raising a child, when it comes to puppies and dogs everyone has their own pet parenting style. In some cases, throwing an elaborate “puppy shower” before the furry bundle of joy arrives may be necessary. Others may toss the list of essentials in their Chewy.com cart and call it a day. Whatever your style may be, there are 10 universal must haves for everyone. These top 10 essentials will help to create as seamless a transition as possible for you and your new pup.
Download our printable Prepping for a Puppy Checklist to make sure you don’t leave anything out!
Top 10 Essentials
- Collar (with ID tags) and Leash
It’s time to pick up your new puppy. Don’t forget the leash and collar! Often shelter dogs will not be given to you with a collar. Make sure you come prepared with both a collar and a leash, better safe than sorry. You will also want the collar and leash when you get home to keep your puppy close and safe. Always keep an ID tag on your pet’s collar starting the moment they are in your care. There may be 1,000 reasons your dog will never be out of your sight, but it only takes 1 unexpected situation to change all of that. Avoid disaster, ID your dog with accurate contact information. Always include your canine’s name and a current phone number.
To start, you will need to find out what food your new puppy/dog has been eating prior to coming home with you. Whatever the breeder/shelter has been feeding them is what you will have to start with. Don’t worry, they do not have to stay on that food forever. Dogs have extremely sensitive systems and switching their food abruptly can cause unnecessary stomach issues. When you are ready to start transitioning your pup to a different food here are the steps you should take.
How to transition your dog’s food:
- Give ¾ original food with ¼ new food. Do this for 4-5 days and evaluate how they are reacting, bowel movements, etc.
- Next give ½ original food with ½ new food. Repeat another 4-5 days evaluating their systems reaction.
- Decrease to ¼ original food with ¾ new food. Continue evaluating their reaction at these rates for 4-5 days.
- Finally, if their system is stable and they are not having poor reactions throughout this transition you are ready to give them 100% of their new food. Continue to keep an eye on them for a few days to ensure they are not having a negative reaction.
- Airtight storage container (for dog food)
To make your dog food purchases last and remain as enticing to your pooch as possible this is an absolute must! Keep your pup’s food fresh and pest free with an airtight storage container.
Consider the size of your dog and purchase dishes accordingly. If your dog is an extra-large breed be sure to get a height-appropriate dish/stand for them. Likewise, for a small breed, an equally small, low to the ground dish will be perfect.
A dog’s bed is a special space that they will have all to themselves. Think about where your pet will sleep in your home. Consider a bed that is washable, easy to move, and that you do not mind looking at every day.
Used correctly, a crate is a wonderful, safe place for your dog. During times of being home alone, perhaps during a thunderstorm, and even through the night, a crate becomes a “safe room” for your pet. Utilizing a crate for training is also a wonderful way to separate the dog from activities happening in the home that may not be dog friendly. We all need our “own space” at times, including the dog. Be sure to get a crate that is the right size for your growing dog – they don’t stay puppies forever!
You do not have to go too crazy in the toy department right away but it sure is a fun way to spend our money isn’t it? Doting on our sweet Quinn with all the fun and festive toys his little heart can handle is probably #1 on the list of “Ways I like to spend my money”. Here are a few types of toys to consider when making your purchase.
- Fetch toys: Tennis balls are a great example. Fetch is an excellent game for dogs both physically and mentally.
- Chew Toys/Bones/Firm rubber toys: Kong and antlers are wonderfully durable options. They are also excellent tools for teething puppies and keeping older dogs’ teeth clean.
- Rope toys: Great interactive toy both with humans and other dogs.
- House-training pads (Minimum 2 pkgs.)
You can start the potty-training process between 12-16 weeks. Even if you are getting a dog that has been previously potty trained it is a good idea to have a small stock of training pads. Anytime a dog is brought into a new living environment there may be a period of adjustment as they learn the “rules” of their new home, which includes using the bathroom outside. Expect the unexpected with a new pup in your home, puppy and older dog alike.
Our dogs lay on the floor, lick the walls and their paws, some even drink from the toilet bowl. Pet safe cleaners are a must in any home with a dog. Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner is one of many pawesome pet safe brands.
All dogs need to be brushed, some more than others. There are literally hundreds of brushes for dogs on the market from the FURminator to the Safari Combo Brush. Purchase a brush that is best suited for your pup’s coat.
Start Simple
Keeping it simple to start allows you to ebb, flow, and grow right alongside your pet. As your puppy grows and their personality develops you can always add toys, treats, training aids and other life enhancing items that your pet will love! Start with these 10 essentials and you will be ready to start a wonderful life with your new fur baby. Watch this space for more upcoming tips for your puppy as he or she grows.
Download our printable Prepping for a Puppy Checklist to check off each essential item one at a time!
Have a new puppy or dog already?
Just Around the Corner offers a wide variety of dog walking and pet care options for you and your furry family member. We all know how difficult it can be to leave our dog home alone while we are at work. JAC is here to help. Set up a Meet and Greet with one of our pet care professionals. Choose from a variety of visits, walks, and hiking options that will best suit your dog and… VOILA! Instant peace of mind while you work, go out to dinner, or day trip to the Cape. Life is meant to be lived. Do not miss out on the fun while giving your pet the gift of JAC! It is a WIN-WIN! Call or text: 508-245-1389 to set up a meet and greet TODAY.
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
by Pam Ranheim | Jul 29, 2020 | dog walking, dogs, pet care, pet sitting, pets, Plymouth MA
What makes a family want a puppy? Is it the slobbery kisses? Or is it the chance to snuggle down on a cold night? Is it the way they look at you, and wait for you at the door with unconditional love? Puppies and even older dogs can be such a wonderful addition to a person or family. Choosing the right puppy or dog for you means asking yourself the right questions. Narrow down the breed, choose the adoption or purchase route you want to go, honestly evaluate the amount of time and money you can spend with your new fur baby. These are just a few especially important questions to address when in the process of making the decision to become a dog parent.
Okay, you have decided to get a dog, now what?
Now that you’ve made your decision that yes, we are ready for a dog it is time to learn which dog will be the best fit for you – the big You, which includes you, your family, and your lifestyle. You could just see a picture of a cute dog on the internet, find out its breed, and say THAT’S THE ONE!! However, that is NOT the best vetting process for adding a new family member. Instead, let’s start by imagining what a day with your dog will be like. Do you get up early for a 3-mile jog, followed by a trip to the local pet friendly farmer’s market, and then hit the beach in the afternoon? If so, an energetic breed like a Labrador might be a great option – one who enjoys exercise, and is also friendly and comfortable in public places. Or does your day run at a slower pace? Maybe you work from home, you enjoy a leisurely neighborhood stroll in the evening and typically you are not away from home other than a store errand here and there. If so, a friendly, home-loving St Bernard may be a nice fit for you. Whatever your lifestyle, know that there is a dog for you. Knowing how to find the right match is the key.
Questions to address when searching for your furry soul mate.
- How much are you away from home?
- Consider you and your family’s work and school hours, social life, and travel.
- Your answer will also impact the amount of outsourced help you will need to consider such as a dog walker or pet sitter.
- How much can you afford to care for a pet?
Check out this list of basic dog owner expenses.
- Routine Vet checks
- Year-round flea/tick/heartworm treatment
- Food/treats
- Leash/harness/collar
- Grooming
- Dog bed/Crate
- Toys
- Dog walker/pet sitter (if applicable)
Pugs and Beagles are two examples for lower maintenance breeds, while Poodles and King Charles Cavaliers tend to be on the higher maintenance side.
- Who lives in your home?
- If there are children in your home, choosing a dog with a playful disposition, one with the energy to keep up with the everyday happenings, and one who is of course friendly are important qualities. A golden retriever is one example of an excellent family friendly breed.
- Maybe you care for an elderly parent. You might consider a smaller breed with an easy-going temperament who can be a “lapdog”. A great idea would be a dog they can easily snuggle up with and give affection, such as a Shih Tzu.
- Do you keep a clean house? Or is your housekeeping more “relaxed and casual”?
- For the least amount of impact on the cleanliness of your home look into breeds that do not shed such as a Maltese or Irish Water Spaniel.
- For the more casual housekeeper a Newfoundland is a fabulously gentle giant that loves everyone with every ounce of drool they can muster.
- Looking for something in between? Breeds like the Leonberger or Borzoi are larger dogs with minimal drooling.
- Do you or anyone in your home have pet allergies?
- Consider a breed that does not shed or is hypoallergenic, for example: Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog or a Yorkshire Terrier.
- Are you active or more sedentary?
- Do you like the gym or outdoor activities? Ex hiking, walking, jogging
- Do you spend your nights/weekends watching Netflix and relaxing?
- Choose a breed or mix that most relates to your energy level and would be able to join in on your daily activities.
- Where do you see yourself in a year, five years, and 10 years?
- Are you currently single but hoping to settle down and start a family soon?
- Do you have a house full of teens who can help care for the dog but who will be flying the coop in a few short years?
Making the decision to bring a dog into your life is a lifelong commitment, no matter how much your life changes during their life span. Think about how this new addition will fit your life, and you theirs, for the long haul.
Finding THE ONE dog for you
Once you have answered the questions above it is time to start looking for THE ONE! From breeders to shelters and puppies to dogs, there are still many more questions to answer for yourself.
- Do I want a purebred or a mix?
- Do I want to purchase a dog from a breeder or adopt from a shelter?
- Based on your above answers, what breeds best fit your lifestyle?
- Are you able/willing to travel for the pickup?
- How quickly do you want to a new dog/puppy? Are you willing to wait for a new litter?
The number one rule when purchasing or adopting a pet is to do your due diligence. Not all breeders, and even some shelters, are reputable. Do your research, read reviews, talk to your fellow pet parents, educate yourself as much as possible. Even if an animal needs rescuing supporting an inhumane breeder or business enables them to keep doing what they are doing. Due diligence is a must!
No such thing as too much dog research
The more you consider your lifestyle, personality, and both present and future circumstances the better off you will be in finding the perfect furry addition to your life. Whether you purchase or adopt, when you bring a dog into your life you are making a lifelong commitment to them. All dogs deserve an owner(s) whose commitment is as unwavering as to their own family. For a complete list of dog breeds, their characteristics, history, and other facts visit the American Kennel Club website.
Download our Top 10 Dog Breeds of 2019 Guide
Have a new puppy or dog already?
Just Around the Corner offers a wide variety of dog walking and pet care options for you and your furry family member. We all know how difficult it can be to leave our dog home alone while we are at work; JAC is here to help. Set up a Meet and Greet with one of our pet care professionals. Choose from a variety of visits, walks, and hiking options that will best suit your dog and… VOILA! Instant peace of mind while you work, go out to dinner, or day trip to the Cape. Life is meant to be lived. Do not miss out on the fun while giving your pet the gift of JAC! It is a WIN-WIN! Call or text: 508-245-1389 to set up a Meet and Greet TODAY.
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
by Pam Ranheim | Jul 22, 2020 | cats, dog walking, dogs, pet care, pet health, pet sitting, pets
Your backyard is one of the safest places for your pup to spend their time, but it can also become deadly in the blink of an eye. Summer days with high humidity make the conditions ideal for dangerous plants and mushrooms to grow. If you are a dog owner, you know “everything goes in the mouth” especially new things they find in their personal space. Well, one mushroom or toxic plant in the mouth, when you are not looking, could become a deadly situation in a matter of hours. However, there are simple steps you can take to prevent your pet and you from dealing with the terrible effects of poisonous plants and mushrooms.
How to prevent poisonous plant ingestion
Clear ALL mushrooms in your yard.
When in doubt, take it out! Better to be safe than sorry so if you see mushrooms you are not sure about in your yard go ahead and dig them up. Be sure to pull them up by the “root “ (or mycelium) if possible, to help prevent further growth. This will not guarantee that they will not come back so keep an eye out. If you wish to keep non-harming mushrooms in your yard educate yourself on the types of mushrooms and their qualities. Learn more here: Types of toxic mushrooms
Be on the lookout for mushrooms outside of your yard too!
If mushrooms can grow in your well-manicured yard they can certainly grow along trails, sidewalks, and those hidden places your pet loves to sniff out for a potty break. Keeping an eye out while on walks, hikes and in new places (even a friend’s yard) is key to keeping your pet safe and plant poison free!
Know which plants are toxic to pets
While mushroom awareness is particularly important due to their quick appearance, easy access to pets, and difficulty to identify, they are not the only plants you should be on the lookout for. The same precautionary actions mentioned above should be taken with any poisonous plant. Here are some of the most common plants to be aware of.
• Azalea
• Hydrangea
• Ivy
• Daffodil
• Poinsettia
• Foxglove
• Tulip
• Lily
• Hyacinth
To name a few… Many of these plants are commonly found in flower arrangements as well as flower gardens. If you purchase flowers or plants or are gifted an arrangement be sure to double check the contents before leaving it within reach of your fur babies. Check out a complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants here: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
Identifying a poisoned pet
While some symptoms of poisoning are very evident not all signs come on at once or right away. If you suspect your pet has ingested part or all of a poisonous plant be on the lookout for these telltale signs.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Blood
- Fever
- Excessive drooling
- Weak/Uncoordinated Movements
- Seizures
- Strong heartbeat
If your pet exhibits any of these signs, contact your vet or poison control (800-222-1222) right away. Time is critical when getting care for poison.
Have a plan!
As a pet parent we hope to never deal with something so terrible as poison ingestion but nonetheless we must be prepared.
- Put important phone numbers in your contacts AND in a prominent place like your refrigerator for easy access. Regular vet, emergency vet and Poison Control are a few numbers to have on hand.
- Identify the plant involved and take a sample with you to your emergency location.
- Keep your pet’s medical records in a convenient location. The more information you can provide your pet’s medical professional the better they will be able to care for them.
- There is no home remedy you can offer your pet for this circumstance so get in touch with a medical professional ASAP
With so many toxic plants out there prevention can feel overwhelming, but with a few precautionary actions poisonous plant ingestion in pets is 100% preventable.
• Know what is in your yard
• Remove all dangerous plants from spaces your pet occupies
• Regularly check your pets’ spaces for new growth/potential danger
• Be familiar with the signs of a poisoned pet
• Have a plan of action
If you are having trouble identifying a plant in your yard a veterinarian or pet care professional may be able to help you. Call your vet or visit www.aspca.org for more information.
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA. To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page. You can also Contact Us for more information. Be sure to Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram!
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