by Pam Ranheim | Sep 9, 2020 | cats, pet care, pet sitting, pets, Plymouth MA
A happy cat means a happy cat mom or cat dad, right?! Keeping our furry felines happy is the top priority for us cat lovers. No matter the personality type, if they are indoor or outdoor cats, rescues or purebred, all cats deserve to be genuinely happy. Making our kitties leap for joy on a regular basis is important but what does it mean to have a cat who is truly happy? Knowing what to look for in your cat when gauging their happiness is a key component to keeping them delighted. As we focus on happiness here, we are excited to reveal the top ways to keep our kitties healthy coming soon! Stay tuned right here. Check out our free Signs of a Happy Cat infographic to share with your fellow cat lovers!
Signs of a Happy Cat
- Vocal cues such as purring and talking.
- Being playful with you or other pets in the home. Bringing you toys or their hunt is also a particularly good thing, according to them.
- Grooming remains a top priority for happy cats giving them a healthy appearance.
- Having a good appetite and eating well at each meal.
- Snuggles, kneading, “making biscuits”, Star Paws, rubbing against your legs, and napping in your lap are all loving signs they are pleased.
- Sleeping socially with people and other pets in your home.
- Resting or sleeping with their paws tucked under their body is a relaxed posture for cats.
Are you seeing these signs in your cat? Maybe you are noticing only a few, or none at all. No matter where your cat falls on the happiness scale there is always room for improvement when it comes to our precious fur babies. These 6 tips will not only promote daily happiness in your kitty cat’s life but will also give you, their trusted servant, peace of mind knowing your cat is living a truly fulfilled life.
1. Spay and Neuter
Getting your cat spayed or neutered, even for those indoor-only kitties, is necessary. Have your cat “fixed” to help control the homeless cat population. You also avoid certain types of cancers in your kitty when you spay and neuter, such as breast cancer and testicular cancer, and even uterine infections decrease. Your cat will be less likely to escape/runaway as they will no longer go into heat after this procedure. Cats who have been spayed or neutered behave better overall than those who have not, which makes a happier and healthier kitty.
2. Tree Time (indoors)
Cats were made to climb. We don’t always love it when they climb our beautiful furniture so we must give them ways to exercise that part of their natural instinct. Cat trees give your cat an excellent way to scratch the invisible itch to climb, plus it doubles as an actual scratch pole. These trees come in a variety of sizes and shapes and can accommodate multiple cats. When possible place your tower near a window so they can enjoy the view and happenings of the great outdoors while getting their climb on.
3. Love & Play
Okay okay…if we must, right? Giving our cat love and positive attention is one of the simplest ways to keep your cat happy. Take time every day to play with them. Use toys that they can stalk, pounce and chase to really tucker them out. A tired cat is a happy cat. When you are not around, leave out safe toys for them to play with such as a cardboard box. Boy does this simple and free toy provide hours of entertainment for our feline friends! Switch up what you leave out every few days to keep it feeling fresh and new for your fur baby.
4. Catio
Yes, you read that right, catio. By definition, a catio is a safe outdoor enclosure for housecats. You can really get creative on this one and gear your catio design towards the things your kitty cat loves the most. For example, if your cat favors climbing you can create multiple levels and platforms within their catio to climb to their heart’s content. Being in the fresh air, with natural sights and sounds that they are intuitively drawn to is the highest form of positive stimulation our furry friends can have. A catio offers your feline the most closely related experience to their natural habitat while keeping them safe. Don’t have one? Get one!
5. Pets in Pairs
Consider getting more than one cat. Most cats are quite social and benefit greatly when they are not the only cat in the house. When introduced properly adding a second cat to the household can be a wonderful experience for everyone. Having a companion to play with, snuggle with, and enjoy the day to day festivities alongside provides a feeling of fulfillment for them. If you are considering getting a cat or already have one why not make it two?
6. Bird Viewing Station
Even well-fed domesticated cats have the natural attraction to small prey like birds. Indulge that attraction by creating a bird viewing station for them. Set up a birdfeeder or bird bath right outside the window of your choosing. Then sit back and relax while your ferocious kitty enjoys hours of tweety bird entertainment.
Increasing the happiness in your cat is simple. Get them spayed or neutered to set the tone for a happy life. Offer them your love, get creative with their window spaces and even the great outdoors. Consider a feline companion and always keep their natural instincts in mind when creating spaces for them. With these tips your cat’s happiness will be off the charts! Now that your cat will undoubtedly be living their happiest life stay tuned because you won’t want to miss our 5 Tips for a Healthy Cat.
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.humanesociety.org
www.catiospaces.com
www.chewy.com
www.amazon.com
by Pam Ranheim | Aug 19, 2020 | birds, cats, dogs, pet care, pet health, pet sitting, pets, Plymouth MA
Choosing a veterinarian for your pet’s health and wellness is one of the most important decisions you will make as a pet parent. After all, the goal is to keep our fur babies healthy, happy and on Earth for as long as possible, right? Finding the right health care provider for your precious pup or fluffy feline is a personal decision that will lay the foundation for your pets’ health. If you are like me, you want quality care that comes with ease and Peace of Mind for your precious pet. Contrary to popular belief, our pets are not born hating the vet! Find a place that makes them feel comfortable and (dare I say) one they look FORWARD to going to! While the responsibility of choosing your pets’ health care provider is HUGE, the process of finding the best fit for you and your pet can and should be FUN! So, take a deep breath and follow these 7 great ways to go about choosing the best vet for your pet.
Talk to your pet owner friends
Get recommendations about the best veterinarians from people you trust who also have pet owning experience. Start by building a list of possible vets based on these recommendations. This list may also include some fair warnings of less than stellar practices based on others’ experience. Consider what type of pet or breed your friends own(ed). A 15-year-old Maine-coon cat will have a vastly different veterinary experience than a brand-new yellow lab puppy. Friends who own pets are a wonderful place to start your vet choosing process.
Research
The best vet for your pet may not fall right into your lap but with focused research the right fit will come along in no time. After gathering a list of names/practices from your pet owning pals do some of your own research. Thoroughly review each candidate’s website and read their testimonials. If people are saying things that you are looking for in a vet like “personal attention” “timely and considerate service” “open evenings and weekends” “good value” or “very professional” they may be worth looking into further. In addition to the compiled list of recommendations from your friends, a Google search for veterinarians in your area is another fabulous resource. Always read reviews and look for people who describe what you hope to find in a vet. Live in Plymouth, MA? Click here for a list of local veterinarians!
Visit (or Call) to feel it out
The best way, hands down, to learn if a vet practice will work for you and your pet is to experience it firsthand. When possible, take a trip to your top choices for a visit. You can first do this without your pet to get a feel for cleanliness, day to day operations, and whether the staff meet your friendliness standards. If the visit goes well and you are pleased with your experience, set up a trial visit for your pet. Realize that right now, in a COVID world, scheduling “research visits” may not be an option. Rather than in person, make phone calls to your top choices to inquire about their practice and ask the staff and veterinarian your questions.
Hours of Operation
The best vet for your pet means they are available when you need them! The hours and days of operation vary from practice to practice. Think ahead to what days of the week you will be available to schedule your pet’s routine visits and ensure that your vet of choice is open. If you are only available on weekends and your vet is not open Saturday or Sunday that may be a deciding factor and time to look at other options. If you choose in-home veterinary care, ask for their “on-call hours”. Many times, traveling vets hold hours of operation like a brick and mortar clinic. If the vet, you choose is not open or available 24/7 you will want an emergency veterinarian for your pet as well. Once you have chosen your primary care vet ask them for their recommendation on an emergency vet.
Location Location Location
Choosing a vet who is close and convenient is beneficial and can be life changing when it comes to an emergency. Consider your travel time to each vet clinic and decide if that is a distance you feel comfortable traveling with your pet, particularly in the event of an emergency. Knowing the proximity of a clinic is to your home is an excellent way to narrow your search.
Fees and Money Matters
When it comes choosing the best vet for your pet financials matter! To choose a vet that foremost meets your financial needs, compare the pricing of multiple clinics. Always ask ahead of time the full costs of procedures to avoid any unexpected fees. Inquire about methods of payment, payment plans or financial assistance before committing.
Connect with the Vet on your Pet Care Philosophies
Get down to business by asking the veterinarians their beliefs on practices and treatments for things like cancer, spaying and neutering, and euthanasia. If you believe in holistic and alternative treatments is this something they practice and/or condone? Is the vet patient and understanding of your questions and inquiries? The quality of health care for your pet is not something to compromise on. If a vet does not feel like the “right fit” continue your quest until you feel 100% comfortable in your decision.
Gain Confidence in Your Choice
As a pet parent there is no greater choice to make than their health care provider. When embarking on this important quest consider others’ experiences and investigate their recommendations. Research thoroughly while getting answers to your important questions. Make the choice that works within your budget and time and choose a vet who aligns with your personal pet care philosophies. Following these guidelines will give you confidence and Peace of Mind in making your final decision of which vet to choose for your pet. Remember, choosing a vet is not like a marriage proposal. You are not looking for “the one”, you are making a choice that most closely aligns with your values and expectations of the health care provided to your pet. If your initial choice ends up not being the “right fit” you can always change!
References:
www.akc.org
www.pets.webmd.com
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!
by Pam Ranheim | Jul 15, 2020 | cats, dogs, pet care, pet sitting, pets, Plymouth MA
Have you ever planned an exciting trip to get away from it all only to be faced with the dilemma of what do I do with the Dog/Cat? The difficulty of leaving your pets behind during a family vacation or weekend getaway is one of the number one reasons people decide not to travel. The pet parent guilt of leaving your fur baby behind can be tough to overcome. Knowing your pet care options before going away will help you to make the right choice for you and your pet(s). Choosing the right pet care option is the key to peace of mind while on vacation!
Before you start the search for pet care there are a few questions you want to answer for yourself and your pet.
- Where will my pet be most comfortable?
- How much care does my pet need daily? (consider feedings, medications, puppy needs, etc.)
- Does my dog/cat get along with strangers (human and animal)?
- What is my budget for pet care?
- What will give me the most peace of mind while I am away?
PET CARE OPTIONS
Professional Pet Sitting
Hiring a professional pet sitter is an excellent way to maintain peace of mind for both you and your pet during your time away. Pet sitting is the most customizable option for your pet! Does your pet feel most comfortable at home? This option allows your pet to remain in their familiar surroundings 24/7 while you are away enjoying yourself. A pet sitter is also a great choice for keeping your pets’ schedule as normal as possible for them. From feeding times to walks/let outs you can customize a timely schedule with the pet sitter and their visits each day. A pet sitter generally holds several pet safety certifications (particularly true of established pet care businesses), adding to your peace of mind. They will keep you up to date with personalized notes or text messages and of course provide lots of love for your fur babies while you are away. Pet sitting can double as a “home watch”. Many pet sitters will bring in your mail and newspapers and even water your plants, making your home appear “lived in” during your time away. BONUS!
In-Home Boarding
Boarding your pet in a pet sitters’ home is a wonderful option if you are not comfortable with letting someone new into your home or if you pet is protective of the home, i.e. does not allow strangers into the home. This can also be a less expensive option compared to hiring a pet sitter to come to your home multiple times a day. In-home boarding keeps your pet under the watchful care of an experienced pet sitter around the clock. In many cases, your pet will be socialized with other pets in a monitored and safe environment. In-home boarding also means your pet is never left alone overnight. When looking to book in-home boarding be sure to ask how much time the pet sitter generally spends away from the home or how much time they anticipate your pet will be crated or left alone in the home. Answers will vary depending on the pet sitter so to make the best choice for your pet it is a good idea to ask.
Kennels/Boarding Facilities
A standard option for around-the-clock pet care is a boarding facility. If you prefer to board your pet at a facility make sure it is reputable: read reviews, and ask your fellow pet parents for recommendations. Confirm that the facility holds the required boarding certifications, i.e. PCSA certified. Be sure to ask about the qualifications of the care-takers as well as detailed information on the daily schedule for pets under their care. It is important to note that boarding facilities often do not have staff on location after a certain time of day. Refer to the questions you answered above to determine if a boarding facility is a good fit for your pet. Find qualified boarding facilities at the International Boarding & Pet Services Association
Friend/Neighbor
Does your best friend LOVE playing with your cat, or maybe your neighbor has a teen dying to walk your dog? Consider asking them to pop over for feedings and playtime/walks. Having an established relationship with the person coming into your home can be comforting for both you and your pet. This is a great option if your pet has difficulty with new people or if you need someone to pop over on short notice. If they have pets themselves offer to return the favor next time they plan a trip. An important thing to remember when using a friend or neighbor is that life happens and there is always the possibility that something “comes up” last minute making them unavailable. Be sure to have a backup plan just in case.
Take them with you
What greater peace of mind than to have your fur baby right alongside you while you are away? If your pet is comfortable in new places, enjoys car rides (for road trip travels), or offers comfort to you as a pet owner they could be an excellent travel companion. There are many pet friendly travel options out there. From Airbnbs to restaurants and shopping, pets are becoming widely accepted in both public and private places across the country and the world. If your pet has a hard time being away from you or with new people, bringing them along will be your best option. Searching sites such as bringfido.com will give you detailed information on recreation, businesses, lodging and more that welcome our furry friends! Even if your pet does well boarding or with visits by a pet sitter/neighbor you may want to consider researching your destination for pet friendly options. After all, what is a family vacay without the family pet? Download our Free Guide to Traveling with Pets for all you need to know when you travel with your pets.
From hiring a pet sitter to in-home or traditional boarding to traveling with your pet, you have many options for pet care when you vacation. You know your pet best – think about which option will be the best fit for them and for you and go with that! Whichever form of pet care you choose, always do your due diligence. This means reading reviews, researching the business/person/facility, checking their history of pet care and certifications. It is your right and responsibility as a pet owner to gather as much information as you can before you trust someone with your precious fur baby.
Want to give traveling with your pet a try? Download our free Guide to Traveling with Pets for all the tips and tricks of traveling with your furry family members.
Just Around the Corner offers Daily Dog Walking and Cat 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 8, 2020 | cats, dogs, pet care, pet health, pet sitting, pets, Plymouth MA
Prevent Fleas and Ticks for your Dog and Cat
Is there anything worse than finding a tick behind Fluffy’s ear? Or that moment when you see a flea jump from Bruno’s tail right onto the living room rug? YUCK! Keeping our pets flea and tick free is part of our duty as a pet parent but it is not always as simple as year-round treatment. These 6 tips will keep your dog and cat flea- and tick-free both indoors and out all year long.
Why are Fleas and Ticks bad?
Besides being just plain yucky, fleas and ticks are parasites that may cause serious harm and discomfort to our precious fur babies. They transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Dog Ehrlichiosis and let us not forget…the Bubonic Plague (Flea transmitted disease). These sneaky parasites are out to get our furry friends, but with a few simple steps your pet and your home will remain flea- and tick-free!
6 tips to prevent flea and ticks
- Year-round treatment
A monthly pill or collar to prevent fleas and ticks for your dog and cat is a must year-round. No matter what region you live, continuing treatment through the winter is extremely important. These parasites survive temperatures as low as freezing (30 degrees). The unpredictable weather these days makes remaining diligent with your pet’s treatment more important than ever. All it takes is a few winter days in the 30’s for fleas and ticks to be right back to their pesky ways. No bones about it, continue your pet’s treatment 365 days a year.
- Throw out old preventatives
If you have old flea and tick treatments from previous years or other pets it can be tempting to use them on your current pet. However, most treatments have specific expiration dates and become ineffective over time. These parasites evolve and often become immune to older products. Always check with your Vet for the most effective brands/products available to you. In addition, be sure to use pet specific products, canine products for dogs and feline products for cats. Swapping one for the other can cause serious harm to your pet.
- Keep backyard clean
Our own backyard is the number 1 place pets contract fleas and ticks. Keeping the grass, trees and shrubs trimmed will keep your yard from looking too appealing to fleas and ticks. A regular mowing and grooming will continually disrupt the possibility for these sneaky parasites to make their home in your yard.
- Clean home regularly
Flea eggs can stay alive all year long in your home, even through the cold months. Once eggs are laid, they can multiply as quickly as 100 per DAY! A thorough routine cleaning will keep your home flea free. There are a few things you do not want to miss during your cleaning that specifically target removing/keeping fleas at bay.
- Washing pet and human bedding in hot water
- Cleaning curtains, couches and other fabric materials that are a playground for fleas
- Dispose of vacuum bag/empty canister (outside) after EVERY use. Flea eggs can continue to hatch and multiply even after being vacuumed.
- Spray/clean carpeted areas frequently
- Do regular tick checks
Looking for more peace of mind when it comes to wondering if Fido has a tick? Do a regular tick check yourself. Start this when your dog is just a puppy or your cat is a kitten to get them used to the unique full body search that an older pet may otherwise not be comfortable with. Regular baths will also help to prevent fleas and ticks. Bath time is also a fantastic time to do a flea/tick check.
- Regular Vet checkups
Checking in with the professionals will ensure you have your pet on the best preventative plan possible. They will check the efficiency of your current program and make sure your pet remains on the safe track for being parasite free! A thorough checkup provides the utmost peace of mind for a pet parent, which is priceless. Do not delay, schedule a checkup with your pet’s veterinarian today.
Keeping your dog and cat flea and tick free makes for a happier, healthier pet. When your pet is armed with an effective year-round treatment with a nicely manicured yard to play in, a clean bed to rest their head, smelling fresh from routine baths, and gets a gold star from their vet check fleas and ticks don’t stand a chance! These 6 tips will have your pet saying THANK YOU again and again.
Do you have a best kept secret for preventing fleas and ticks in your pet(s)? Share with us in the comments!
Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking and Cat 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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