Archive for the tag 'Pet Sitting'

The Wonderful World of Pet Services

Michelle September 16th, 2008

Although I am a pet sitter and dog walker, I also have dogs of my own and on occasion need pet services just like the rest of the pet owner population.

Everyday I read about all the new services that are out there providing the help that we, as pet owners need. Just recently I read about a new one, (well not so new in the human world), but new to the pet world, Reiki.It was very interesting to read so I thought I would share.

What is Reiki? It is the ancient Japanese healing technique with similarities to it energy cousins, Tai Ch’i. The popularity of Reiki among pet owners is growing rapidly. Animals are extremely sensitive to energy and enjoy the experience. Treating an animal may require several visits, depending on the situation. When a Reiki treatment is being givien for the first time it may rquire that the practioner sit across the room from the anmal and send Reiki; that is especially true for aggresive animals. It is not necessary to touch the animal, as with a person, for the Reiki treament to be effective.

The benefits from Reiki are:

  • Speeding healing from injury
  • Reduce stress
  • Increase energy
  • Increase performance
  • Relax tight muscles in the animals
  • Calms anxious and nervous behavior in the pet
  • Eases chronic and acute pain in injured or geriatric animals

There are even Reiki practioners here in the Portland and surrounding areas. To find out more you can go to http://www.juliaspetcare.com/reiki.htm

Since I am all about trying to find natural remedies, after reading about Reiki energy, I would think it would be another alternative to giving your pets certain medications for aniexty and stress.

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Summer is here

Michelle June 29th, 2008

If anyone was wondering if summer was ever going to arrive, these last two days should have squashed any doubts. I came home from a day and half trip to a house full of hot dogs even though the air conditioner was on. Being the worry wart I am, I took each one outside and gave them a good soaking of fresh, cool water. There is nothing more funny than to watch my dogs after they get a bath or in this case a dose of cool water. My big guy, Gus was running around like he was a year old puppy. I am sure they all felt a lot better. I know my Pugs, Wheezer and Raven sure do. As is with any blunt-nosed dogs, it is harder to breathe, especially in extreme heat.

I also worry about next Friday, the 4TH of July, where fireworks rule the day. I know that two of my dogs are not bothered by the noises, but last fall I added two others to my four-legged family. I am not sure how all the noise is going to affect them. As I was waiting for the train yesterday I read an article about helping cats and dogs cope with all the fireworks.

One tip suggested conditioning your pet to cope with the sound of fireworks, by playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume during which your pet is engaged in a activity, such as eating or playing. As time goes on play the recordings a bit louder. When your pet stops exhibiting signs of stress, such as pacing or panting you know that they’re conditioned to the noise. (This is a great idea, one I am going to use)

Another option is taking your pet to a vet for mild sedatives. However, this is a personal choice. Some experts prefer exercises over sedatives.  A good work out can drain much of the pent up energy.

If your dog or cat does panic during the holiday, get them inside and try keeping them calm. They say to turn either the TV or radio up high to mask the noise. Even a fan or air conditioner would work. If the pets are inside try giving them a toy or something they can chew or lick. Anything that can relax them and let them have fun.

If your pet does get out during the 4TH and becomes lost be prepared.

Make sure they are up to date with their ID tags or microchips. Call your local shelters or vets and be careful how you describe your pet, some people may find them but give a different description. Ask neighbors or anyone near if they have seen your pet. Post signs that include a picture and contact information. Don’t forget the internet, use listservs and e-mail contacts.

Last but not least if you find a lost pet call a shelter to see if anyone has filed a lost report. This is especially important if the animal doesn’t have tags. Shelters and vet offices can also scan the animal to see if they have been micro chipped.

By taking precautions you and your pet can have a safe and fun 4TH of July.

 

 

 

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