It's Cold Outside

 Like most of the U.S., I've had enough of snow & cold.  At first I didn't mind since I got stuff done.    New Year resolutions were actually kept. Now we're in the last half of February and the weather hasn't eased up.   Dog classes with my dogs was one of my resolutions.

I registered for two classes with Aeon, our newest addition.  Aeon is a 2.5 year old black miniature poodle, weighing in at 14 pounds.   A fuzzy-wuzzy, bumble-bee ball of enthusiastic energy whose root belief is:  Everybody is wonderful, smart, lovable & beautiful.  Including herself.    Aeon appreciates being groomed & has great manners.  In addition, Aeon takes daily 4 mile hikes with Kaili, standard poodle, and Joe, human.  Aeon runs while they walk.  She loves running through weeds, mud & water.

We're taking our classes over at Boom Towne Canine Campus www.boomtowne.com   Dog Yoga and Beginner's Obedience.  

 About Dog Yoga; our practice at home is going well.  It's a different story in class which includes incense, cheese sticks, massage, and lowered lights.   Unfortunately, there's an agility practice taking place next door and while Aeon is willing to go through the break-down of asanas, her entire body vibrates with tension and energy.  She wants to go check out the room filled with lights & alive with action!  

Obedience involves clickers, which is new for me.  You click when the dog exhibits the behavior you want which means you need to be paying attention to your dog from the very beginning.  If your dog sits, you click and give a treat.  If your dog lies down, you click and give a treat.  Eventually, the transition is made to verbal and non-verbal cues.  I took the class because of Aeon's size, I didn't want to chance an injury due to a correction on my part.  I'm a big person and I've always worked one on one with mid-sized dogs or larger.  In addition, Aeon is so responsive that I knew she would work well with a simple band collar.

What I'm finding out is that clicks works on Kaile the standard poodle.  Being a poodle, Kaile had the smarts to figure out how to behave off leash.  She can be counted on to return on command or stop/wait in the event of an emergency.   She is very resistant on leash.  I figured out her preference for the wide collar used on greyhounds.  This works well when we've needed to go to the vet, groomer or other places.  Still, "sit"and "down" are not part of her working vocabulary, on or off leash.   I want to add these.  

I started Kaile on the click last night.  Kaile was charged on the clicker by the 3rd.  Her head whipped around so fast, I feared whip-lash.  Both dogs sit, I click and they get treats.  Pavlova was right.  They're becoming clicker savy and adding more behaviors in hopes of more treats.

 I'm learning something new and my dogs are enthusiastic about our new games.   Joe has cleared out our basement of of unused fitness equipment so there's quite a bit of room down there.  So, that's where you'll find me;  down in the basement, hammering the bee hives, watching the dogs from the side of my eyes, clicking at wanted behaviors and handing out treats.

Love is Commitment

There are those who believe a pet will teach a child responsibility.  Expectations and rules are outlined with the understanding that failure to follow-through will result in consequences. 

Sometimes this agreement is put in writing and considered binding, at least for the parties involved.  

  

I don't have a problem requiring the child to pay rescue fees or having to use their birthday/holiday/confirmation savings to buy the pure bred they so much desire.  

Problems arise when the child isn't able to consistently ensure the animal's well-being.  The kids spent their budgeted allowance on anything other than feed for the animal.  Maybe the carpet is soiled repeatedly because Dog wasn't walked.  Or Kitty messed on dad's shoes because her litter box was full.  Rat got loose because the cage-door wasn't latched & the arm of the couch got chewed.  Fishie found floating due to sporadic feeding or the water not being changed for weeks.  Kids aren't little grownups.  Thats why they need adults in their lives, to guide & help the child in learning the skills needed for a lifetime.  

 Toys, feed, grooming, vet bills are a biggie, licenses, registrations, training, socialization, repairs, walking, changing the litter, purchasing the necessities; pets are costly & time-consuming.  It is possible a pet's surgery used up the funds ear-marked for an upcoming vacation.  That is what love is, ensuring the health & well being of those in our lives.  We won't take our disappointment out on the kids.  We step up & do the right thing.  

Using animals for teaching responsibility without commitment to the animal's well-being is not right.  Taking a pet to the local shelter due to a child's failures does not prove anything other than that you are the quiter.  To willfully allow an animal to die of starvation or thirst is evil.  

  It is okay to admit you don't have the resources or lack an interest in being personally responsible for animals.  If you still like the idea of animals in your children's lives, provide an opportunity to volunteer or help a neighbor with their pets.  

Interactions between animals & chidren can be wonderful.  Children learn to observe, communicate & play with a totally different species.  They learn compassion and how to deal with solitude.  But most of all, a child begins to understand what commitment means because they watch adults ensure animals receives what is rightfully theirs.  

You're the Adult & Role-Model.  You're the one teaching what love means.  

 

Cold Weather & Houses

Winter came early for those of us living in the Northeast.  We've had some serious cold & snow.  As a result, some of my cat families have become snowbirds.  

I'm willing to make sure the plumbing doesn't freeze, bring in the mail, change the lights sequence each day for the upcoming night.  I water the plants, ensure the paper was stopped, shovel the walk so that I can get in.  I clean the litter boxes and take out the trash.  

The part I like best is visiting with the cats.  I bring along feathers on strings, jingly balls and treats can be found in my pockets.  Cats like playing, "Which Pocket".  

If you're considering a quick trip away & live in Monroe County, give us a call at 585-506-6270.  You don't have to have cats in order to have an insured, bonded person keep an eye on your house's working parts.  

Those Blue Bags

Most cities, towns, villages & pretty much any area considered for public use, has what's commonly called a "bag it" rule when it comes to your dog's waste.  Many communities back up this expectation with fines.  True, you have to be caught to be fined.  Whats more likely to happen is that your friendly dog warden will knock at your door with the information that there has been an informal complaint.  Pay attention because once a formal complaint has been filed against you (your dog), its difficult to resolve the issue.  Fines, town clerks, upset neighbors, village court - who wants to go there.

Personally, I wish everyone would bag in the blue bags.  The bags are bio-degradable.  The fecal matter breaks down in approximately one year's time.  That's good in a controlled waste management environment.  

The problem arises when you deposit the blue bag into a plastic-lined container.  What you've essentially done is assure years from now, sometime in the far future..., the archaeologists will come across these filled blue bags .  Based on their research, they'll ponder long and deep as to whether the people of the early 21st century greatly valued their dog's poop.  

The moral of the story - if you're going to blue bag, make sure it's placed between the plastic liners and the side of the trashcan.  That way, it'll go to the dump and not be counted as treasure trash generations from now.  

Mow & leave behind?

Grass is a great fertilizer for your lawn.  You can mow with no need to rake.  Unfortunately this doesn't hold true when you mow over poop.  Then you get what I call Grassy Poop Pieces. 

The pieces are a result of grass mixed in with fecal matter so finely that its comparable to cutting up a garbage bag into chunks and distributing on your lawn.  It's a fast way to kill whatever grass lies beneath.  I've seen burnt spots within the hour and if its left without pick-up, forget about seeing grass there until you've reseeded, watered and nursed the area.  

Plus you've created a mist by arrogating the poop, which causes more grass damage.  Likely, you've inhaled it as well.  That's not good.   

Pick it up.

The idea of doing this is yucky.  Especially if the poop stinks, is runny and there's a lot.

You can control that.  One of the reasons human mothers' are encouraged to breast feed is because a child's body is able to utilize and process breast milk efficiently.  While changing diapers isn't at the top of any one's favorite thing to do, one filled by mother-milk by-products is more tolerable.  

Its the same for our diapered adults.  If they're being fed a plant-based diet, their diapers are easier to change than those of adults fed Santilac and other food substitutes.  We found this true for ourselves when we made the decision to shift from a processed & meat based diet to one that is minimal-grain & plant focused.  Exercise is definitely part of the picture.   

The reason your dog's shit stinks is because of the following:  You could be feeding your dog the equivalent of McDonald's, Burger King & Pizza Hut at every meal.  

Maybe you've gone to natural feed and it has meat or fish.  

You're overfeeding

The dog isn't exercised on a regular basis, consistent with it's breed type.

Dogs need to move and a big yard doesn't count.  They are wired to move freely and go distances.  Anything less will result in an overweight dog.  Walk the dog & his poop will become firmer because his digestive system has processed the feed better.  

Dogs that forge for themselves do not eat meat daily.  Their diet consists of grubs, leaves, bees, insects, etc.  When they do get meat, they gorge and that's okay if they did the work to get the meat.   Our dogs don't need to do that.  Food is handed to them in a bowl along with a filled bowl of fresh, room-tempered water, right? 2 times a day?  

So the need for meat in their diet goes down drastically.  Just like ours.  Purchase a quality dry feed and supplement with excellent canned food once a week.   

Just because your dog is weighs 50 pounds, doesn't mean you feed based on 50 pounds.  Read the 

label.  Feed at the lower recommendation if you're not walking the dog.  And like us, your dog will be irritable and "hungry" unless distracted.  So go outside, play or walk.  Then feed the "extra" for their pound range.  

Back to the poop - do you mow or do you scoop?

When you scoop, use designated tools.  a garden trowel and small rake, a lined bucket, surgical gloves/double gloved, plastic bags, etc.

Bag it or compost it?

Bag it.  And before you place the bag in the trash, check with your waste removal company.  They'll know the rules of your area.  Some require double-bagging, still others will specify a bio-hazardous waste container marked as such.  

Composting is not the answer unless you are willing to have a designated area specifically for animal waste removal.  Dog fecal matter can not be used as fertilizer for your garden, ever.  

Remember the sooner you get out there to scoop, the more likely your lawn will stay decent.  Drench the spots with water.  

When you're picking up after your dogs at home, don't let them watch you.  Mama Dogs clean up after their babies and your dogs aren't puppies anymore.  The chances increase that you'll be challenged for your alpha position at a later date.  

Walks on lead are different, the dog is still under your authority.  Challenges for alpha rarely occur.  If you are walking off-lead, walk where your dog's dump doesn't matter.  Chances are good a wild animal will clean-up on your behalf.  

 If you're thinking of adding to your dog family, honestly evaluate your life-style and the remaining available toilet area.   Dogs, like cats, prefer their own space.  

You can train your dog to toilet in a specific area.  But again, what human wants to go in an over-filled outhouse or use a non-flushed toilet?  Its the same for the dogs.  Dogs are clean animals, they don't want to come any closer to excrement than they have to.   And when it's winter, why would your dog want to squat further from the house as opposed to near the patio door - again, it's a matter of training yourself.

Good Luck & remember, you can always give me a call.  585-506-6270 

When the Snow Goes Away

 Most dog foods today include beef, chicken, and/or pork by-products.  As a result, your dog's waste is highly acid which means it is toxic to grass.  It is not a fertilizer. If you leave the waste in your yard, it can take up to a year to break down.  

  Dog waste has parasites which can be passed on to humans and other dogs.  Children are especially vulunerable.  These parasites go by the names of:  coccidia, hookworms, roundworms and trichinosis.  

In addition, the EPA considers dog waste to be a dangerous pollutant.  When the rains come, your dog waste can become part of our water supply.  One gram of dog waste can contain 23 million fecal coliform bacteria.  Dog waste can spread giardia and salmonella as well.  

Whether your dog uses your yard or soils while out for a walk..., scoop it up!  

If you need help scooping up your pet's waste, call 585-506-6270 and schedule.  We'll take care of this tiresome and dirty chore for you.  www.in-home-petsitting.com

Facts were obtained from City of Rochester pamphlet:  "Your Dog, Your Neighborhood, Your Responsibility."

Seniors & Seniors

It's a sad fact.  Domestic animals die from euthanization.   They're not being euthanized because they're suffering from serious pain related to terminal disease.  They've being euthanized because someone at home decided to get rid of the animal.  The average age has been 7.  The life span of the majority of dogs is 12 to 15 years.  For cats, 15 to 17.  On a daily basis, thousands of dogs & cats are being euthanized simply because they are 7 years old or above.

One of my favorite human seniors is a vibrant, entergetic 86 years old.  Just before Christmas, she contacted me to say that she was all set to buy a puppy & what did I think?  Would I be upset?  

 I encouraged her to ask her primary care physican what he thought about the idea.  His response was no to a puppy but yes to a dog or a cat.  She asked me to find her a dog.  Only if she arranged for the necessary care to be in place in the event she became incapicated or died.  She said her family would step up. I asked that she get it in writing and ensure enough money was in place to pay the expenses.  I didn't want to be part of another animal being dropped off at the shelter.  

Her family's response?  No.  

Of course she's upset.  

I don't know how this is going to end as the saga is still going on.  We're exploring options. 

 But I have learned. 

As I become more aware of my own finitity, I realize I have a responsibility to those I leave behind & possibly alone.  I have begun the work of putting my life in order.  I have asked a daughter if she is willing to take on the responsibilities of my 3 seniors;  cat, dog, & fish.  Fortunately, she feels she can.  She agreed  because she can see them in her life for the next 1 to 5 years.   After that time & if I am still around,  I will have another dog or a cat.  They'll be adopted seniors from a foster care program and chosen with the idea that I will outlive them.  I will make sure there are funds to cover for their care by another or that they're set to be readmitted into the same foster care program in the event of my not being able to care for them.   

Whether you're 55 or older, an adult child considering a pet for your senior parent..., consider a senior pet.  Senior Pets have better manners, a great sense of humor, and are appreciative of the ordinary & routine nature of life.  

www.in_home_petsitting.com

Cats & Vacations

It's not often I receive a call from people asking me to watch out for their cat.  It seems many believe if food & a litter box are available, their cat will be fine.  

Maybe.  

If your absense isn't any longer than double your usual time away from home.  Such as an 8 hour work shift.  That means 16 hours tops.  Your cat may begin to develop anxiety issues the longer you stay away.  The worse I've seen is feral-behavior and it doesn't always resolve.  

During your extended absense you need to ensure your cat's emotional well-being as well as their physical.  That's the point of a pet-sitter.

I clean & change the litter, freshen their water and provide new feed in a clean dish.  And I stay an hour.  I stay an hour in order to keep your cat company.  I talk to your cat even though she may be hiding out.  That's why I ask where your cat hides.   I bring along a feathered string mounted on a stick.  

My jeans are sprayed with cat-nip.  I visit and talk.  By the week's end, they put in an appearance when they hear my voice.  

Some cats are gregarious from the start.  They greet me at the door, eager for attention.  I still stay an hour.  That is why I asked if you have toys or a hairbrush.  Something to do.  

Other cats want to be held.  I stay an hour.  I don't text or check my Facebook pages.  I hold your cat.  That's why I asked if the two of you have a favorite chair.  

If you have more cats, yes I do the same for them within the hour.  I charge by the visit first and then a nominal fee for each additional cat.  I give attention, likely more than they got the last few days while you were home getting ready to go.  

Cats are aware of what happens inside & outside their home.  Cats hold themselves accountable for the safety & well-being of those within their space.  I've seen a cat become a warrior, ready to sacrifice herself for a child.  I've had mouse-heads presented to me when I've entered their home.  

I like cats.   www.in-home-petsitting.com

585-506-6270

   

Dogs & Grass

I love dogs and hanging out in the yard.  Unfortunately, dogs and grass don't mix.  Some types of grass stands up better than others and there are some things you can do to help.

1.  Dog Food:   Read the food label and know your dog's needs.  If you have a 60 pound Golden
     Retriever of a couch potato, you can't be feeding a high protein, high performance kibble.  It will
     result in frequent, mushy, smelly stools and the urine will be highly acidic.  Be honest with your
     dog's vet and get a recommendation for feed more in-line with the activity level.  Better yet, snap
     on the leash and walk the dog, daily for the time frame appropriate for their age, fitness level, and
     breed type.

2   If you are wondering why your dog persists in drinking out of the toliet, it's because they (like us)
     enjoy their beverages to be cool & refreshing.  Please replace your dog's water everytime you fill
     your glass at the faucet or from the refrigerator.  The more water your dog (& you) consume, the
     lower the acid in urine.  Another added plus is the lower risk of bladder disorders or kidney stones.

3.  Consider mulching or paving the "travel path".

4.  Deep shade, grass, and dogs don't mix.  Bark chips are the answer.

5.  Train your dog to void in a in an area of the yard that isn't so visible.

6.  Here in the Northeast, a 50/50 mixture of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial rye seems recover best
     in active lawns.  Bluegrass rebounds quickly from damage and rye germinates and establishes
     quickly.  Look for cold-tolerant cutivars of perennial rye such as dandy or dimension as others
     do not tolerate the notheren cold.

7.  But the seed from a knowledgeable source rather than a generic bag.  Follow all the instructions and
     be sure to over-seed the areas the dogs traffic.  Kentucky bluegrass takes one to two months to fully
     mature into grass.  This means KEEP YOUR DOGS OFF THE GRASS which means you may
     have to put them on a leash and walk them until they do their business.

Having dogs is a lot of work and yet, dogs add so much more to our lives than take away.  I want you to be able to enjoy your pets when you're home.   I'm available to walk your dog and keep the pet waste properly disposed of.  In-Home-PetSitting  Give us a call at 585-506-6270

If You Want Your Dog to Change.

Sometimes dogs behave in a way that's not okay.

 Since I'm deaf, I appreciate dogs who get rowdy and bark when someone comes to the door.  The thing is, I want them to stop once I know the "why",  otherwise a bigger commotion would ensue when the door was opened.     

The solution was simple.  Tell the dogs to "sit".  Of course, then I had to learn to how make dogs sit, and wait for one minute.  I had to practice sit and wait and release repeatedly, pushing out on waiting time.  Finally I rehearsed for opening night by combining the doorbell, the rowdiness along with the sit/long wait, release.  

After a few weeks we had unexpected company.  Doorbell rings..., imagine a golden retriever and standard poodle going wild with glee.  

"Sit!"  They sat.  They waited.  We had company.  

The moral of the story is, "If you want your dog to change, you have to participate."

Let's Go for a Walk!

If you're a couch potato, you've already heard the message.  And you know, you know, & you already know.  Enough already.  

 If you love dogs and are thinking of getting one, be realistic.  There are some great dogs out there which need minimal walking.  They do need to be walked and they're happy with a daily stroll or more.   Great for cuddling up on the couch, too.  Check out:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Miniature Pinscher
Pekingese
Pug
Toy Poodle

If you are already out walking 3 x 30 minutes or more,  there are more breeds that you can consider.   These are dogs which need 45 minutes daily, at a brisk pace:

Basset Hound        English Bull Dog            West Highland Terrier
Beagle                   French Bull Dog              Yorkshire Terrier
Bearded Collie      Greyhound
Bichon Frise          Jack Russell Terrier
Boston Terrier       Llaso Apso
Chihuahua             Miniature Poodle
Corgi                     Pomeranian                  
Dachshund            Shihtzu  

 Nearly 50% of dogs in the United States are overweight.  They're more likely to have heart, respiratory and digestive impairments, slower healing processes, poor resistance to viral and bacterial infections, and aggravated orthopedic conditions.  Sound familiar?

Dogs benefit from exercising and consuming less not more.  And, their mental health benefits from activity keeping oxygen and glucose at optimum levels in the brain which leads to improved brain function and a overall happier and more balanced dog (HUMAN).

And like us, weight loss and exercise will result in a majority of those pesky heath problems decreasing or disapearing if you and the dog get moving soon enough.  Whats great about the above mentioned breeds is they're happy for a longer walk since their fitness level will increase with yours.  

Rain, Sunshine, Sleet or Snow - Let's Go for a Walk!

We know its not easy getting started.  We're here to help.   Call 585-506-6270.  E-mails are always welcome, bestdogwalks@gmail.com.

You Gotta Walk The Dog!!!

In my early twenties I finally learned to maintain a daily habit of brushing & flossing my teeth, accompanied by regular dental visits.   My failure to make this commitment earlier had brought on tooth decay.  I ignored the decay which eventually resulted in bad breath, teeth fracture, pain, time off from work, and big bucks.

Same with dog walks.  Skipping the dog's walk spells eventual disaster.   A broad spectrum of problems ranging from obsessive compulsive behavior, destruction of personal property to fear biting & civil liability.  Activity keeps oxygen and other nutrients like blood sugar (glucose) at the right levels for the brain.  This results in improved brain function and definitely a happier dog.

Dogs need their walks.  Daily.  They are pack animals.  Dogs thrive on being on the move with their pack.  If a dog is part of a human family, his humans becomes his pack.  Dogs learn their rightful place within the family and society as a whole when they are exercised daily.

Some people are high energy; bike, hike, and run.  Without fail.  For years.  These people are likely to be successful with breeds (or a mixed combination of breeds) which need TWICE DAILY 90 minute HIKE recommended by the ASPCA.  Those are:

Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd Dog
Border Collie
Bull mastiff
Doberman
English Sheepdog
Gordon Setter
Husky
Irish Setter
Newfoundland
Shetland Sheepdog
Springer Spaniel

Whether you're a recovering couch potato, scheduling a vacation or your work schedule bites into your personal time, In-HomePetSitting. com or 585-506-6270.  We'll help keep your dog in tip-top shape for quiet evenings at home, with you.  

Collars and Trainers

   Who hasn't the fantasy of dog running alongside?  Or, how about the one of quiet solitude, warmed by the fire and dog at feet?  These become reality after you've made a commitment & followed through  with consistent obedience practice.  Sometimes beginner classes turn out to be an endurance trial.   That's why you see "Obedience School Drop-Out" t-shirts.

 No one wants to have an arm hauled out-of-socket or see a child knocked over due to their dog's exuberance.

Take obedience classes.  Practice daily with your dog, morning & afternoon.  15 minutes each session is enough for beginners.  After several weeks, if your dog is still pulling on the leash & your arms hurt, its time to revaluate.

It could be you're practicing in an environment which lends to distraction; try the basement or a long hall-way instead of the backyard.  Maybe a change in rewards is called for;  more frequently or less, play instead of treats.  Remember practice make progress and progress brings success.

 You may want to consider a change in the TRAINING equipment you're using.

Collars are a hot topic.  Trainers recommend training collars based on professional experience.  Before you buy a training collar based on a trainer's recommendation, ask:  How many dogs have you worked with that are of the same breed or similar to mine?  Maybe you have a dog bred for herding cattle or meant to learn the word, "Mush!"

 You may get a response such as a significant amount of their work has been with non-sporting dogs, with or dogs 14 lbs. & under.

 Consider locating a trainer who has had far more experience with your type of dog.  Once you do, its likely a different type of training collar will be suggested.  There is nothing wrong with utilizing the appropriate training collar as a means of communication during class and during practice at home.  The right training equipment is crucial for timely success.  

Read up on your dog's breed.  Visit the local humane society if you need help determining  what the dominate breed traits are for your dog.  Ask the society for training referrals.  Keep your eyes open and watch for a dog handler/walker who seems to manage their dog well.   Ask where they've trained.  Everyone started somehow.  Even if they had 16 dogs throughout a life-time.  While an experienced handler may no longer need help in the basics of obedience,  they're willing to return for training when a dog proves unresponsive to their experienced handling.

Your dog's build, temperament and responsiveness has to be taken into consideration when selecting your trainer.  Same for your own strength, stamina, tolerance and self-discipline.  Are you a push-over? There are trainers who are firm with the handler.  The right equipment and a focused handler is crucial for successful training done in a timely manner.

If you find you've bitten off more than you can chew in the selection of your dog, make arrangements for private training.  If finances are an issue, consider hiring a dog walker to attend classes with you.  Both are far less expensive than increasing your homeowners coverage and purchasing an umbrella policy to match.  And far less heart-wrenching than the decision to enter the dog into a shelter.

"The Humane Society of the United States estimates that six to eight million cats and dogs enter shelters each year, and three to four million are euthanized.  No data is available for the number of dogs and cats euthanized each year in veterinary offices and homes; all we know for sure is that far more die by the needle than by natural causes."  Common Questions About Animal Shelters, October 2009.

If you need help walking the dog, contact us at:  In-HomePetSitting.com








 

Saying Hello, Saying Good-Bye

Harry, Joe, & Kali

                                               

Back in August we learned our golden retriever, Harry, has cancer of the worse kind.  Because Harry is close to 14, the decision was made to focus on palliative care.  He has been placed on varied dosages of prednisone over the past 11 weeks and seems to be maintaining somewhat on the current regime.

Harry has always had a remarkable appetite, eager to try everything, likely to return for seconds & more.  Upon hearing the diagnosis our 22 year old daughter, Jessica, placed Harry on vegetarian kibble.  She added honey, garlic, and a whole stew of organic choices. No surprise when Harry eagerly chowed it down.  What has been surprising is how receptive the other pets have been to the same menu over the weeks.  

Our daughter believes its because of the diet.  I agree the diet has been a change for the better.  All three seem more comfortable in their own skin.  Itching, scratching, along with anxiety have decreased.  Maybe its the cooler weather? Maybe the other pets are demonstrating their solidarity with Harry; sort of like people who shave their hair off when a dear one goes through chemotherapy or radiation.

Harry's weight has stayed the same and he still want to go on Joe's daily 4 mile walks. Harry continues to inhale his vegetarian fixings with the same speed as the non-vegetarian kibble & extras.   Harry still lies down next to Joe's side of our bed. He thrives on cuddles with Jessica and brings me a shoe in exchange for a treat. Lately, he demonstrates a marked preference to remain inside, instead of in & out and in & out again.  He has stopped climbing the stairs to check on Jessica this past week.

 For the past few days, Harry has not greeted me at the door. I thrived on seeing his great joy when I came home. Instead, now I seek him out and enthusiastically ask how my big boy has been.  His tail thumps, thumps on the floor.  I realize that's one more thing which is truly Harry and I will sorely miss.        

The Mother-In-Laws

Martha & Ruth were named after their owners' moms, in other words, The Mother-In-Laws.  I think this photograph reflects their relationship.  They're an affectionate pair & love having the kind of  company who has time for a good visit.  They follow me around while I'm doing chores.  Every so often, they gently butt which means a good rub on the back is desired.

Whats really cool is how they like my cooking which is more than I can say for my own family.  Martha & Ruth are right there, watching what I put together and eagerly eat when its ready.  Granted their food is plain meal & grain, I guess the combination is just what they like.

Like horses, their stall needs to be mucked down daily and shaved chips spread afterwards.  Their manure is pellet-like, similar to those of rabbits, deer, and alpacas which makes for easy clean-up.

Martha & Ruth have me convinced that reincarnation is possible.  They remind me of my grandmothers especially when I prepare to leave.  Martha in front, Ruth is behind and both are watching, saying good-bye.

For that special attention your larger pets require, visit us at In-Home Pet Sitting.


Tags: Goats, Pet Sitting

"A Horse, A Horse...,

There are mornings when I must be out the door by 6:30.  This means I have to rise in time to shower, brush my teeth, dress, and have breakfast.  Some of those days I grab apples and carrots and eagerly anticipate a drive on country roads.  Since the sun is not quite up above the horizon, I take my time & watch for deer and farmers on tractors crossing over to their fields.   I look forward to horse barn visits.  There is preliminary preparation involved and I know the owners appreciate the efforts I've take so they can confidently enjoy their time away.

One place I visit has a sweetheart of a gelding named Kirby.  Kirby is 21 years old and full of one horse-power.  He prefers carrots over apples before his face mask is placed and brushing can only occur when he is munching hay in his pasture.  After Kirby is set up for the day I muck the stall, spread clean shavings and wheel-barrow the manure out-back.  I make sure his water bucket and trough are full. I make a point of staying for a visit as horses are herd animals.  Being alone isn't what they were meant for.

Before sundown, I return and make sure Kirby is back in his stall.  I visit and say goodnight.

Horses are work.  Still, I do understand..., "My Kingdom For A Horse".

If you need larger pet sitting so you can schedule time away, contact us at In-Home Pet Sitting.

Tags: Horse Sitting, Pet Sitting

The Three Seniors

In 2001, a four year old Golden Retriever joined Joe's family.  His name is Harry.  2005 heralded the arrival of Kali, a 4 year old White Standard Poodle. Their first families had to have been wonderful as these two dogs brought light, laughter & love into their forever family's lives.  Harry & Kali are shining examples of adult dog adoption.

Today, Harry is around 13 and Kali close to 12.  Joe is hitting his upper fifties.  The three take twice daily walks, ranging from 4 to 8 miles total.  Their favorite hikes are:  Leigh High Trail and The Erie Canal Path.  

To learn how your dog can enjoy long trail walks regularly, visit: In-Home Pet Sitting.

Tags:  Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Senior Dogs, Pet Rescue, Golden Retrievers, Poodles