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Association of Pet Professionals

Author: tori

  • Back to School Blues: Helping Your Dog Adjust to New Routines

    Back to School Blues: Helping Your Dog Adjust to New Routines

    As the summer days start to shorten and the excitement of back-to-school preparations begins, many families experience a mix of emotions. While parents and kids navigate new schedules and routines, there’s one family member who might feel a bit out of sorts—your dog.

    After a summer filled with playtime, outdoor adventures, and constant companionship, the sudden change in household dynamics can leave your furry friend feeling lonely and anxious.

    As a professional pet sitter, it’s important to recognize the impact on your furry guests and share this information with your clients.

    Understanding the Canine Perspective

     

    Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. Over the summer, they’ve likely grown accustomed to having the kids around all day, enjoying extra attention and playtime. When school starts, the sudden quietness and reduced interaction can be confusing and unsettling for them.

    Signs Your Dog Might Be Struggling

    Some dogs adapt quickly to changes, while others may show signs of distress. Look out for these common indicators that your dog might be experiencing back-to-school blues:

    • Separation Anxiety: Excessive barking, whining, or destructive behavior when left alone.
    • Loss of Appetite: A sudden disinterest in food or treats.
    • Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in energy levels or enthusiasm for activities they normally enjoy.
    • House Soiling: Accidents in the house, especially if they were previously well-trained.

    10 Strategies to Ease the Transition

    1. Maintain a Consistent Routine: Try to keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as consistent as possible. This predictability helps them feel secure and reduces anxiety.
    2. Morning Exercise: Before the kids head off to school, take your dog for a brisk walk or engage in a fun play session. This helps burn off excess energy and can reduce stress levels.
    3. Interactive Toys: Invest in puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys that can keep your dog occupied while everyone is away. These toys stimulate their mind and provide a distraction from loneliness.
    4. Create a Safe Space: Designate a cozy, quiet area in your home where your dog can retreat and feel comfortable. Add their favorite blanket or bed and a few toys to make it inviting.
    5. Gradual Adjustment: If possible, gradually acclimate your dog to the new routine before school starts. Begin leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increase the duration to help them get used to the change.
    6. Midday Check-ins: If your schedule allows, consider coming home for lunch or hiring a pet sitter to give your dog some midday companionship and a break from being alone.
    7. Enroll in doggie day-care or enlist a pet sitter or dog walker to break up the day with fun activity and mental stimulation
    1. Leave the blinds and shutters OPEN so your dog can view neighborhood activity.
    2. Bring your dog with you to the bus stop so they can participate in the departure and return of loved ones. Better yet, bring them to the after-school events if they are calm in a crowd.
    3. Incorporate new and fun routines such as a trip to the drive-through at McDonald’s, Starbucks, or local Ice Cream Store for a treat everyone can enjoy.

    Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs

    pet sitters and their children

    Puppies and senior dogs might need extra attention during this transition period. Puppies, with their boundless energy and need for socialization, may require additional playtime and training sessions.

    Senior dogs, on the other hand, might experience more anxiety due to their age and health conditions. Be patient and attentive to their specific needs.

    Involving the Kids

    Involving your kids in the process can be beneficial for both them and your dog. Encourage them to spend quality time with your dog before and after school. Assigning small tasks, like feeding or grooming, can help strengthen the bond between your children and their furry companion.

    Professional Help

    If your dog continues to show signs of severe anxiety or behavioral issues despite your efforts, consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian. They can provide tailored strategies and, if necessary, recommend products like calming supplements or pheromone diffusers.

    Final Thoughts

    The back-to-school season is an adjustment period for everyone in the household, including your dog. By understanding their perspective and proactively addressing their needs, you can help ease their transition and ensure they remain happy and healthy.

    With a little extra care and attention, your dog will soon adapt to the new routine and continue to be the joyful, loyal companion you know and love.

    Want more helpful tips? Our Library of Content for members is packed with a vast collection of innovative ideas, tips and tools to help you grow in your pet sitting journey. Check us out (only $10/month!): https://associationofpetprofessionals.com/join-us/  

    Photo attribution (of young boy and his puppy): Dominika-Roseclay on pexels.com

  • Appointing a Guardian for Your Pets: Ensuring Their Future Care

    Appointing a Guardian for Your Pets: Ensuring Their Future Care

     

    Dog and cat owners need to appoint a guardian for them

     

    Professional pet sitters may encounter an occasion to share this important information with clients. Whether you blog, send client emails or newsletters or post on social, this topic deserves attention. You can also download reference materials to share. See the link at the bottom of this blog!

    As pet owners, we cherish our furry friends and want to ensure they live happy and healthy lives. However, life can be unpredictable, and circumstances may arise where we are no longer able to take care of our pets.

    Appointing a guardian for your pets is an essential step in ensuring their well-being if you can no longer care for them. This blog post will guide you through the importance of appointing a guardian, how to choose the right person, and steps to formalize your decision.

    Why Appointing a Pet Guardian is Important

    Appointing a guardian for your pets is crucial for several reasons:

    Unforeseen Circumstances: Life is full of unexpected events, such as illness, accidents, or sudden changes in living situations. Having a plan in place ensures your pets are cared for no matter what happens.

    Peace of Mind: Knowing that your pets will be in good hands if you can’t care for them provides peace of mind for you and security for your pets.

    Continued Care: Pets require consistent care and affection. A designated guardian ensures your pets continue to receive the love and attention they need.

    Choosing the Right Pet Guardian

    Selecting the right guardian for your pets is a significant decision. Here are some factors to consider:

    Trustworthiness: Choose someone you trust completely. This person should be reliable and responsible.

    Love for Animals: Ensure the guardian has a genuine love for animals and understands the responsibilities of pet care.

    Lifestyle Compatibility: Consider whether the person’s lifestyle and living situation can accommodate your pets. For example, if your pet is active, the guardian should be able to provide enough exercise and playtime.

    Financial Stability: Pet care can be expensive. Make sure the guardian is financially stable and able to cover the costs of food, medical care, and other necessities.

    Willingness: Discuss your decision with the potential guardian to ensure they are willing and prepared to take on the responsibility.

     Steps to Formalize Your Decision

    Once you’ve chosen a guardian, it’s important to formalize the arrangement to ensure your wishes are followed. Here are some steps to consider:

    Talk to Your Chosen Guardian: Have an open and honest conversation with your chosen guardian. Make sure they understand the responsibilities and are fully committed to taking care of your pets.

    Create a Pet Care Plan: Write down detailed instructions for your pets’ care. Include information about their diet, exercise routine, medical history, and any special needs or preferences.

    Legal Documentation: To make your wishes legally binding, consider including your pet guardianship in your will. You can also create a pet trust, which is a legal document that sets aside funds for your pet’s care and appoints a trustee to manage those funds.

    Emergency Contacts: Provide your chosen guardian and other trusted individuals with your pet’s veterinary information, as well as any other important contacts, such as pet sitters or neighbors who are familiar with your pet.

    Review and Update Regularly: Life circumstances change, so review and update your pet guardianship plan regularly. Ensure that your guardian remains willing and able to care for your pets and update any changes in your pet’s care routine or medical needs.

     Communicating Your Plan

    Once your plan is in place, it’s essential to communicate it to those involved:

    Family and Friends: Inform your family and close friends about your decision. This ensures they are aware of your wishes and can help support the guardian if needed.

    Veterinarian: Inform your veterinarian about your chosen guardian and provide their contact information. This ensures a seamless transition in your pet’s care.

    Pet Sitters and Neighbors: If you have pet sitters or neighbors who help care for your pets, inform them of your plan. They can provide additional support to the guardian during the transition period.

    Summary

    Appointing a guardian for your pets is an act of love andresponsibility. By taking the time to choose the right person and formalize your decision, you ensure that your pets will continue to receive the care and affection they deserve, even if you are no longer able to provide it yourself. This thoughtful planning provides peace of mind and security for both you and your beloved pets, ensuring their well-being for years to come.

    For a wealth of information and further information to assist planning for your pet’s future, please visit: https://2ndchance4pets.org/

    On their site, you will find useful worksheets and Emergency Contact Cards for immediate use.

    2nd Chance 4 Pets is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization. Their nationwide volunteer team works to provide comprehensive information and lifetime care solutions to pet owners, veterinarians, and members of animal care organizations to ensure the welfare of companion animals.

    They are committed to providing pet owners information that will help them plan for their pet’s continued care should their pets outlive them.

    Photo attribution: Featured image: Anusha Barwa on upsplash

    Alec Favale on Unsplash

     

  • Do These Genes Make Me Look Fat?

    Do These Genes Make Me Look Fat?

    While some dog breeds are more prone to becoming overweight or obese, nearly half of the nation’s dogs and cats suffer some level of tipping the scales beyond their breed standards.

    The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) reports that 59% of cats and 54% of dogs suffer from excess weight. Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC chief veterinary officer states: “Obesity in dogs is a widespread problem in the U.S. today, yet it is one of the most preventable problems.”

    Pet sitters are typically the “first responders” to notice this growing problem. Knowing what to look for and politely educating the owners is a best practice to employ.  Be polite and gentle in your suggestions yet having a few “fat facts” in your tool belt will help.

    While many factors may contribute to excess pounds, such as Cushing’s Disease or Hypothyroidism, obese dogs tend to be older females, dogs between the ages of 5-12 and those who aren’t exercised enough to offset their daily food and caloric consumption.

    Pet Pro Tip: This is a great promotional message for your dog walking services or to suggest more frequent walks for the heavier dogs in your client base.

    The long-term health problems from overweight issues include:
    • High blood pressure
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Heart disease
    • Diabetes
    • Respiratory issues
    • Orthopedic problems
    • Some forms of cancer
    • Shorter life spans

    How do you know if a dog needs to shed a few pounds?  When viewing them from above, he/she should have an hourglass shape.  From the side, ribs should be slightly visible with the abdomen tucked in and not hanging down.

    It’s important for dog owners to develop a health plan to keep their “hefty” dogs toned and fit.

    First starters should include a thorough physical exam with blood work, followed by a consultation with the family veterinarian to determine how to effectively reduce calories and increase exercise in a safe and methodical way.

    A comprehensive weight management program might include a diet change, fewer treats, smaller portions, or a complete change of food brand. All dogs require high-quality protein, especially seniors. Treats shouldn’t exceed 10% of daily caloric intake and can include carrots, green beans, apple slices (no skin or seeds), watermelon (no seeds), blueberries and other quality alternatives to Milk Bones (basically potato chips for dogs).

    Daily exercise is important for all dogs of all breeds and ages. Daily walks twice a day is ideal.

    “Most veterinary nutritionists recommend a consistent diet in order to ensure a balanced meal,” says Dr. Alvarez. “The most important nutrient for senior dogs is high-quality protein, due to a higher need for protein levels.” No matter the dog’s age, exercise is another important factor in keeping him/her healthy and fit. It’s also good for a dog’s mental state – a tired dog is less likely to get into mischief.

    Even older dogs should go out at least twice a day for mental and physical stimulation. “Dogs with heart or respiratory disorders can be taken out for shorter periods of time and during the cooler parts of the day,” says Dr. Alvarez. Some senior dogs can benefit from low-impact exercise such as swimming.

    Similarly, this weighty problem also applies to cats.  It’s estimated that a cat is considered overweigh” when they are 10-20% above their ideal body weight and OBESE when more than 20% over their ideal weight.  So what’s ideal?

    The ideal weight for the average healthy cat is 8-12 pounds. There are breed variations of course that detour from this general guideline.  A Maine Coon cat, for example, has a larger body frame so may have a healthy weight of 20 lbs as opposed to an Abyssinia.  They are petite in nature, so 6-8 lbs would be considered normal.

    A cat’s fluffy coat can make it difficult to assess their body weight, yet a bird’s eye view should show an hourglass shape with the abdomen tucking in behind the rib cage.  A veterinarian is the ultimate weight assessment professional.

    Not only does a “fat cat” risk shortened lifespan, but also an increased likelihood of developing other diseases such as:

    • Diabetes mellitus
    • Cancer
    • Heart disease and hypertension
    • Osteoarthritis and faster joint degeneration
    • Urinary bladder stones
    • Anesthetic complications
    • Skin and coat problems
    • Arthritis

    Feline obesity is a common disease and affects approximately 63% of cats. Diet and feeding strategies are therefore very important for proper weight management.

    Feeding a diet of mostly dry food may contribute more to weight gain vs. canned food. Feeding small, frequent meals or free feeding may avoid rapid food consumption and ‘begging’. Treats tend to be higher in fat and calories so should be kept to a bare-bones minimum.

    Keep this in mind and spread awareness among your pet sitting staff and client community about this important health aspect for dogs and cats.

    Hugs,

    Your Pet Pro Team at AoPP

    Photo by Flouffy on Unsplash

    Resources:

    If you’re curious about weight standards for individual dog breeds, check out this quick guide from AKC: Breed Weight Chart – American Kennel Club (akc.org)

    Better Pet Fitness in Four Steps — Association for Pet Obesity Prevention

    https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_obesity

    For additional Pet Management Guides, Join us to gain access to a ton of resources in our Library of Content for Members Only: http://app.comeback2.host/join-us/

     

     

  • Pet Sitter Tips to curb Counter-Surfing Dogs

    Pet Sitter Tips to curb Counter-Surfing Dogs

    For Home-Style pet boarding, you have undoubtedly experienced a few canine counter surfers who want what you’re having!

    Most dogs can’t resist the lure of something yummy left on the kitchen counter. If given the opportunity to nab it, you bet it’s a robbery about to happen.  Obviously, if you know your furry guests are prone to thievery, you clear the countertops of every bread crumb before you exit the kitchen. A pet sitter’s job is to ensure dogs stick to their diet which doesn’t include the human treats in the kitchen, not supplied by their owners.

    Yet if you are boarding one or more dogs or pet sitting for a dog in a household with family members who aren’t as diligent as you are, it may be harder to control.  This is especially important when toxic food items are inadvertently made available. For a complete list of people foods that are toxic to pets, visit: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

    I will never forget the antics of a favorite house guest “Zoey”. I knew in advance that Zoey had sneaky skills. A beautiful English Mastiff with the height to easily reach countertops coupled with a keen interest to explore pantry doors, counters and cupboards. She would wait until no one was looking then help herself to food items of desire.

    Her Mom dropped her off for boarding after she consumed an Easter basket of chocolates- wrappers and all! For several days, her outdoor “deposits” included a rainbow of foil. Given her girth, she digested her spoils without issue.  A smaller dog, however, would have been rushed to the vet.

    To curb this “Zoey-like” habit with furry house guests, a little pet sitter ingenuity is required. A quick and easy solution is to install a baby gate at the kitchen entrance every time you are cooking or serving family meals. A simple spring-loaded gate should be sufficient and avoid drilling holes in your walls.

    If you have the time for a little training, leave something tempting on the countertop, slightly out of nose reach, and hide around the corner. Using either a spy cam device or hand-held mirror, wait and watch for your dog to investigate, then rush in quickly with the command “leave it!” or “ah ah ah” to interrupt this behavior. If practiced over time, they will eventually get the point and “leave it” alone.

    You can also try to redirect the dog’s behavior.  Give them a food-stuffed toy or chew bone in another room of the home to keep them busy while you’re cooking in the kitchen. Chew bones are best served when there is only one dog in the other room. With multiple dogs, chew bones can incite a fight, so it is best to avoid food aggression. This includes keeping them separated during mealtimes.

    We’d love to hear your “Zoey” stories!  Comment below or share as a post on our social pages!

    As always, be safe and happy in your pet sitting journey. We’re here to help you every step of the way! Join us @ http://app.comeback2.host/join-us/

    Hugs,

    Tori and AoPP pet pros

    photo credit: dfordog.co.uk

     

     

     

  • The Love Language spoken by Dogs

    The Love Language spoken by Dogs

     

     

    The Love Language Between us and our Dogs

     

    If you own or pet sit for dogs, you know they possess marvelous communication skills. Apart from their vocalization and understanding of our words and commands, dog body language involves their posture, tails, head and eye gaze and using their paws to emphasize their point. Dogs go “all in” with their all! A professional pet sitter knows how to interpret these signals in order to properly respond.

    Have you noticed when you stop petting a dog how they might “paw” you for more? I love the lovers who can’t get enough petting and stroking; especially when at the computer keyboard with a cup of coffee in one hand and their head gets involved to say, “keep going”.  The coffee flies.

    Roll Over is more than a Trick!

    Rolling over for a belly rub is a sign of relaxed contentment and to garner love and attention. It’s also a sign of trust in you. Done in the presence of other dogs, it may be a sign of respect to the higher-ranking dog in the pack.

    The Tail is a good Tell

    A low to medium tail position that is either still or wagging is a dog’s “tell” that he is relaxed and happy. If it’s tucked under, this dog is expressing fear, deference or appeasement. When the tail goes high and fast, this could be excitement, tension, or aggression. The latter requires big-picture context in order to decipher what’s being communicated. I enjoy the helicopter tail that is accompanied by a wiggling body, soft eyes and excited whimpers that truly says, “I love you!”

    Eye Contact and Gaze

    dog eye gaze

    Studies have shown that dogs are really good at reading our moods, via eye gazing. Dogs follow our gaze to determine if what we’re saying or doing is directed at them. Additionally, when we gaze back, our levels of oxytocin (the “cuddle chemical”) are increased in both dog and owner (and pet sitter). It might be that those “puppy dog” looks were developed by dogs to get just what they want from us.

    For those dogs that look away, they are simply being polite and deferential. They do not wish to be confrontational so avoid your eye gaze. Some dogs will perceive a prolonged eye stare as a threat, so always be careful when first meeting a dog “eye to eye”.

    Dog Speak

    Equally as fascinating as a dog’s body language cues, is their ability to communicate verbally. Not only are dogs using a range of vocal signals (whining, barking, baying -hello Beagle- but in some cases, their own unique sounds (one I’ve heard yet can’t fully describe, sounds like “row, row, row”).

    Not only can they communicate verbally with other dogs, knowing instinctively how to interpret the other dogs’ bark, they understand our words. Their cognitive abilities go well beyond their learned response to training commands.

    Dog Cognition

    Dogs have proven their ability to understand what humans are barking about. Every dog knows what the word walk means. Ex: when we ask them “wanna go for a walk?” while also grabbing visual aids such as a leash, tennis shoes and even poo bags, these verbal and non-verbal signals from us sends them into excited oblivion.

    In the book “The Genius of Dogs”, by Brian Hare & Vanessa Woods, Brian talks about his own dog Oreo. Brian’s Dad decided it would be a great idea to get Oreo to fetch the Sunday paper from their long, steep driveway. His father simply brought Oreo to the end of the driveway, pointed at the paper and said, “fetch paper”. When Oreo complied, he was praised. Within a week, Dad was standing at the top of the driveway, asking Oreo to “fetch paper” and Oreo knew what was wanted.

    Not only did Oreo understand the words, but also the initial gesture of pointing at the paper and applying cognitive inference as well. Dr. Hare’s early examination of Oreo’s cognitive abilities has launched a full-scale institute of Canine Cognition Studies known as DOGNITION. Learn more @ https://www.dognition.com/ for fun, games and enlightenment.

    To quote Dr. Hare: “Relative to other animals, it is the ability of dogs to understand human communication that is truly remarkable. Some dogs have the ability to learn hundreds of names for objects. They learn these names extremely rapidly through an inferential process of exclusion. They also spontaneously understand the category to which different objects belong. Some dogs even show understanding of the symbolic nature of human object labels. Dogs may truly understand words.”

    I am not an expert nor possess any degrees in anthropological studies. I have simply had the pleasure of hosting and personally observing 1000’s of dogs in my home over the past 14 years in my cage-free boarding business: https://www.doolittlesdoghouse.com Yes, it is truly possible to “talk to the animals” just like Dr. Dolittle’s character. Dogs understand what we are saying and doing and lovingly reciprocate in their own unique and wonderful ways.

    Hugs and love,

    Tori

  • The Importance of Time Management and Zen for Successful Pet Sitters

    The Importance of Time Management and Zen for Successful Pet Sitters

    Pet Parents are traveling more than ever, so pet-sitting demands mount in gleeful yet more stress-inducing ways. To maintain an effective work-life balance, consider how to best manage your time and tasks, not only during this busy season but throughout the year.

    Pet sitters need self care too!Time is your most valuable and scarcest resource, with 1440 minutes a day to accomplish your personal and professional goals. Use your early morning to strengthen your heart, mind and body. Buddhist Monks keep their eyes closed and breathe first before getting out of bed! They reflect on the gift of another day before they start the day.

     

     

    Each morning, start with the most important task, break it down and nail it. The Pareto principle, also known as the 80-20 rule, correlates to 80% of results come from 20% of your activity. Say no to everything that doesn’t meet your immediate goals. Everything you say yes to means you are saying no to something else.

    Carry a notebook with you and jot down all your positive thoughts that are captured in your mind throughout the day. Your mind will process and organize your thoughts for you naturally.

    Control your inbox and shut off notifications (those cell phone “pings” throughout the day are distractions). Process your emails 2-3 x day, yet in controlled fashion and based on priority.

     

    pet sitters run all day!Find creative ways to avoid procrastination. EX: you’ve been thinking about an exercise program yet work demands keep putting that jog on hold. Solution: Put tennis shoes next to the bed and go to sleep in a t-shirt and jogging shorts!

     

     

    Establish Focus Days, Buffer Days and Free Days. Focus days are the Pareto of your week, with the first 2 hours of Focus Days centered on your Most Important Tasks. Buffer Days are the “admin” days to catch up on phone calls, texts, emails, blogs, client newsletters, payroll etc. Free Days are the days you don’t work! Always take time for yourself and close the office. Staff
    should not be expected to work 7 days a week either.

    Set an outgoing message on your office phone that says: “Thank you for calling (your name/company name). We’re sorry to have missed you. Please leave a detailed message so we can better assist you. The office is closed after 5:00 and on weekends. If you have a last-minute FUR11 after normal work hours, please call or text (name) on his/her cell phone (#)”.

    This simple message sets client expectations to (a). Respect a normal work week regimen and (b). Not to expect a return call on a Saturday or Sunday. You are also letting them know that urgent after-hour needs will be met and managed.

     

    Pet sitters need to relax between dog walksTake lots of breaks during the day! Sprint, rest, sprint, rest…Hard work and relentless focus on your dreams and goals is admirable. Just breathe and take breaks to avoid burnout.

    Many successful business people use “To-Do” lists to organize their day, while others rely on calendars. Choose what works best for you. To-Do List Apps are available as an alternative to white-paper lists with a little more functionality.
    For tech-lovers who want to download an app for organizing your day, take a peek at our recommendations based on great reviews:

    Any.Do (“must have” per NY times and WSJ)

    Sorted3 (everything in one place)

    TickTick (has a Habit Tracker feature that includes time slots for meditation)

    Trello (this one includes team management functions).

    The Association of Pet Professionals cares about its members. We are here to help you succeed as a professional Pet Sitter and are as dedicated to you as you are to your clients and their companion animals.

    Let’s travel together with joy and peace.