Pawcific Northwest Pet Sitting

Michelle November 21st, 2011

Since the holidays are right around the corner, many owners are looking for someone to care for their pets. If your like me, you want the best fit possible and someone you can trust. Your neighbors and friends might be a good fit, but if the pet is not healthy, older or needs medication, it might be better to find another option.

Your primary vet is one, so is a kennel if you have a dog, but if neither of these quite fit your pets personality, then the next option would be to find a personalized service, such as a pet sitter.

While reading the newspaper I came across an article on how to find the right petsitter for you and your extend fur family.

I thought the it was worth sharing,since many have questions on what a petsitter does,as well as how to go about hiring a “Professional” petsitter.

One of the first steps when looking for a pet sitter is to make sure  they are licensed, bonded and insured

*Check references.

• Interview the pet sitter before hiring them to make sure they fit your needs.

• Watch your pet’s reaction to the potential pet sitter, and how he or she interacts with your pet. (They are your best indicators)

• Request updates while you’re away. (Many of my clients have me text them daily)

• Write down detailed instructions for each task before you leave, and ask if there are extra fees for services such as medication dispensing or cleaning multiple litter boxes.

• Also, ask if the pet sitter will help in other ways, such as checking the mail or watering plants. (My service includes these)

• Establish a back-up sitter just in case. (I always have a back up pet sitter, who is licensed and insured)

• Make sure the pet sitter has your contact information. If you provide a cell phone number, make sure it has service where you’re going.

• List emergency contact numbers, including those of a back-up pet sitter, relative and veterinary clinic.

• Include your authorization for emergency vet charges, including how much you’re willing to pay.

• Provide medication amounts and times to administer, how much food to provide and where to look if your cats hide.

• Leave extra food and supplies somewhere in plain view, such as on the counter.

Tags: aloha, Beaverton, Cats, Christmas, Dogs, Hillsboro, holidays, pet health, Pet Sitter, Pet Sitting, Portland, Thanksgiving

• News
• Comments(0)

Michelle December 21st, 2009

I have had a great year, thanks to all my clients. Without you, there would be no Pawcific Petsitting and I thank each and every one for your business and support.

We here at Pawcific NW Petsitting would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year.

Tags: aloha, Beaverton, birds, Cats, Christmas, clients, Dogs, Hillsboro, holidays, New Year, pawcific NW, petsitting, washington county

• News
• Comments(0)

Michelle November 23rd, 2009

Ahh it’s that time of year again. Turkey, mashed potatoes, family get together’s and of course since your pets are a big part of your family, I am including them in that last part.

This is also a time to take  steps to keep your pet safe and healthy. Since I have dogs, I always pay attention to whats out there on the internet. I have listed some tips I have found that will give you a better idea on the do’s and don’ts of including your pet in your Thanksgiving family ritual.

1. Don’t give your animal different food than they would normal get. Feeding turkey to your dog or cat can cause him or her unwanted abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, none of which are welcome during this festive weekend.
2. Discourage your family members and guests from indulging your pet with inappropriate snacks. Food high in sodium (especially peanuts and chips) and other fatty foods like poultry skin, beef or port fat can cause an inflammation of pancreas. Pancreatitis is potentially life-threatening condition.
3. Dispose of aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and wax paper from holiday foods. If you pet can get to it, he or she will lick the food off foils or wraps. The swallowing of such coverings can cause an intestinal obstruction.
4. Secure your garbage. It only takes a minute for your little scavenger to get into the garbage and wolf down whatever smells good-including the string used to tie the turkey.
5. Turkey bones are also dangerous for you pet. Any brittle, spiky bone could lodge in the esophagus or cause an irritation of his or her stomach or intestines.
6. Maintain his regular schedule for feeding and exercise. Minimizing the stress of animal means being aware of his daily routine and expectations. Pay as much attention to your pet as usual so that he will not feel neglected or insecure.
7. Keep your pet home and away from parade celebrations. With the large crowds, your pet can become stressed or even worse, can get lost in the crowd.
8. Make sure your furry friend has fresh water at all times. Frequently check your pet’s water bowl to make sure the supply is clean. Busy children and relatives may bump a bowl and spill the water.
9. Provide a quiet refuge for your animal. With all the holidays fanfare, you pet will need a “time out” from visiting friends and family. A comfortable crate is one solution; a room with a “Do Not Disturb” sign is another. Give your dog or cat time and space to settle down or take a nap.
10. Keep current registration and identification tags on you pet. With guests coming in and out of your home, it is very easy for a door to be left ajar and for your animal to wander off.

We here at Pawcific NW Petsitting would like to wish you and yours a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving

Tags: Cats, Dog Walking, Dogs, holidays, Pet Safety, Pet Sitting, Thanksgiving

• News
• Comments(0)