pet sitting – Georgia Pet Watchers

Chihuahuas

Jennifer Whiting — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 15:23:49 +0000

I must admit, when I hear that we have a new chihuahua client, my first question is are they friendly? Chihuahuas can be little pistols, but they can also be sweetie pies. They are great companions and are fearless, brave, and extremely lively. They need a firm owner or they may be strong-willed without proper human leadership. They can be difficult to house break and some suffer from small dog syndrome. Because of this, they may not always be the best with children or people that they do not know. Despite all of these things, they are good little dogs for apartment life. The Chihuahua likes warm weather and dislikes the cold. They need space just like any other dog. Because they are small does not mean they can be kept in a very small area. Chihuahuas are the oldest breed in America and the smallest breed in the world. They originated in Mexico. If you are looking for a long lasting breed, they can live up to fifteen years or more. It may be tempting to carry these little guys around, but they need exercise, just like any other dogs. Daily walks are great and healthy for them. That’s where Gwinnett Pet Watchers comes in handy!

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Cold Weather Tips for your Pet

Jennifer Whiting — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 17:24:29 +0000

Just like people, your pets’ tolerance for the cold varies based on their coat, activity level, body fat storage, and overall health. You should be aware of your pets’ cold tolerance, and adjust their outdoor activities accordingly. You will probably need to shorten your dogs’ walks during very cold weather to protect them and yourself. After walks, check your dogs’ paws for cracks or scrapes. They may need aloe or ointment for treatment. Arthritic and elderly pets may have more difficulty walking on snow and ice and may be more prone to slipping and falling. Long-haired or thick-coated dogs tend to be more cold-tolerant, but are still at risk in cold weather. Short-haired pets feel the cold faster because they have less protection, and short-legged pets may become cold faster because their bellies and bodies are more likely to come into contact with snow-covered ground. Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances (such as Cushing’s disease) may have a harder time regulating their body temperature, and may be more susceptible to problems from temperature extremes. The same goes for very young and very old pets. If you need help determining your pet’s temperature limits, consult your veterinarian. Your pet may even change their sleeping location to receive more comfort and warmth during cold temperatures. Your pet may also appreciate a sweater or just spending some time inside.

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Laser Pointers-A great way to exercise your pets on a rainy day

Jennifer Whiting — Sun, 15 Jun 2014 21:33:37 +0000

Laser pointers can be a great way for dogs and cats to get exercise on days of inclement weather. Many dogs and cats love to chase the little red dot around the room. Even the laziest animals will get up for the laser pointer. There are a few things to remember when using safety practices with the laser around your pets. First, make sure the laser is not too powerful and can accidentally damage your pet. According to the FDA, the highest power acceptable to use around animals is 10 milliwatts. Also, never shine the laser in your pets eyes. Another idea to think about during play is to use a real toy that can be caught in conjunction with the laser pointer. Animals may get frustrated because they cannot physically ever catch the laser, so it is important to give them something that is real and they can have as a prize at the end of the game. Also, you may hide treats in nooks and crannies and end the laser in those locations and your pet ends up with a goodie as well. Some dogs may get overstimulated and laser pointers may not be such a great idea for them, while other pets may not care a lick in the world about it. Each pet is different and all you can do is see what your individual animal likes. As a pet sitter, I have several clients with Gwinnett Pet Watchers that love the laser pointer. Not only is it entertainment for the pets, but it is fun for us to watch as well!

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Doge Glow

Jennifer Whiting — Fri, 30 May 2014 03:55:51 +0000

So, I was browsing online for dog products and came across a product called Doge Glow that seemed pretty cool. The product comes in collars, harnesses, and leashes and feature LED lights that can be set on a steady or flashing mode. These lights are very useful for safety reasons and the lights can be seen from 1000 feet away. During the day, the gear can be turned off and the patterns still look fashionable without being lit up. The products are weather resistant, so are perfect for people that get outside in rain or shine. They run on batteries, so there are no cords or tangle to deal with. I think this would be a great product for us at Gwinnett Pet Watchers to use at night or in the wee hours of the morning when we are doing our dog walks. You wouldn’t be able to miss us!

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A Trip to the Vet

robin — Tue, 28 Jan 2014 17:35:08 +0000

Jake split one of his nails playing fetch over the weekend. I took it to the vet this morning to have the nail cut back and see if he needed any antibiotics. You know these crazy people with their pets who are so overprotective that they actually make the dog nervous and obnoxious, oh my God I am That pet owner!!
When the vet tech came in I explained that and Jake is very skittish and i was concerned that he might nip if he was frightened. I proceeded to put a box muzzle on him to protect him from himself. She then put a leash on him and was going to walk him to the back room to get weighed and get is now clipped. As she was leading him through the door he put on his brakes and looked at me with those big brown eyes. I told her he might not go with her and that I probably should walk with them. She looked at me with the same look I give my clients and said trust me as soon as that door is closed and he can’t see you I will have better control of him.
A few minutes later they came back in. She had the muzzle in her hand and Jake was wagging his tail. she said he had been perfect. He had let them cut his nails and got his rabies shot. She said he was a perfect gentleman not a whiner and did everything they asked him to.
It’s funny how I know all this stuff and put it into practice daily, but when it comes to my pets I turn into “That” pet owner. I really could be one of my own clients.

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Gas Prices Poll

Damien — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 23:49:41 +0000

When Gwinnett Pet Watchers was started, gas prices were on average $2.64/gallon. We have tried to keep the prices of our services down, but if prices keep rising and reach the $4.00 mark, we’ll be forced to increase prices. So, since this decision affects our clients, we want to hear from YOU on how we should charge for gas. We’d like for you to tell us whether you would rather us put in a gas surcharge per visit, or just give ourselves a cost of living raise? Take the poll below to give us your preference!

[poll id=”2″]

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December Newsletter

robin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:18:25 +0000

IN THIS ISSUE

Holiday Donations to Pet Orgs

Last minute holiday sitting

Dirty Muttini Recipe

Pet Sitting with Latrece

FEATURED ARTICLE

We encourage you to make a donation to your favorite rescue group or animal non-profit organization this holiday!

RECENTLY ON THE GPW BLOG

The Cat that Spooked the Sitter

New Scheduling Software

Plants Poisonous to Dogs

LAST MINUTE HOLIDAY SITTERS

Forgot to book your sitter for the holidays? Though limited, we still have availability this season.

Click here to check our availability and book a sitter!

QUICK LINKS

Winter 2011

First and foremost we want to express our gratitude to all of you for a wonderful 2011. Working with you and your pets has made this past year so wonderful for us! It is hard to believe that the year is almost over. Everyone at Gwinnett Pet Watchers is incredibly grateful that we are able to do what we love while working with such great people (and animals!)

Although 2011 has been a successful year for Gwinnett Pet Watchers, we want to acknowledge that there are many who are not so fortunate and have had a rough year, which also means a rough year for their pets. Donations to shelters and non-profit animal organizations have decreased and they are not getting the help they need. Because of this, Gwinnett Pet Watchers will be making donations to two of our favorite animal organizations, Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen and Mostly Mutts, in lieu of giving gifts this year. We want to encourage you to do the same by donating to your favorite pet charity; instead of giving your sitter a gift, consider making a small donation in their name. Together we can make a difference!

Not sure what organization to donate to? Visit our Links Page for a list of our favorite Rescue Groups and Pet Charities!

Happy Holidays!

Dirty Muttini Recipe

At the end of a rough day, Vinny likes to unwind with a little something for the discerning dog. A Dirty Muttini will do the trick.Ingredients:

1/2 water
1/2 chicken broth with NO onions (onions are toxic to dogs)
Chicken jerky strip

Directions:

Be sure to use chicken broth with no additives, especially no onions.
Mix with broth and water. Serve in your mutt’s favorite dish.
Garnish with a chicken jerky strip.
NEVER give alcohol to your pet!

Do you ever make a special drink for your pooch? Maybe something warm on a cold day or a cool treat in the summer. If so,email it to us with a picture of your pal (preferably enjoying his libation) and we’ll feature it on Facebook and in our next newsletter!

Pet Sitting with Latrece

Latrece Barcik, one of Gwinnett Pet Watchers newest sitters, has really wowed us all with her love of animals and the bond that she shares with them. We wanted to highlight her this month by letting her share some heartwarming stories from her pet sitting! Each pet I have sat for throughout the years has given me a very special and unique experience. Not that we don’t have favorites, but I consider it a privilege that I am able to be a part of an animal’s life for any length of time, whether it is for a few days, a week, or longer. Here are a couple of fun, extra-special moments I’ve experienced in the recent months…A Springer Spaniel I sit for loves to take me to the stream behind her house. She always wades in for just a minute or two, but one day she seemed like she wanted to stay longer. I waded in with her and we ended up walking further down the stream. She was so happy, how could I say no? Obviously, it was warmer then!There was a Chihuahua that was such a bundle of energy that I thought he needed more exercise. Apparently that wasn’t the case because he didn’t go for any of it. He just kept jumping up and nipping at my hands and shirt – I couldn’t make him stop! Finally, I sat down (since walking and playing wasn’t his thing) and he jumped up in my lap, leaned against me and laid his little head on my chest, looking at me like I was the best thing since sliced bread. All he really needed were some extra snuggles! We sat that way for 20 minutes and he was calm and happy as a clam after that.

I try to figure out what a pet needs and deliver it. Does a dog seem a little bored? I’ll introduce them to the wonders of a peanut butter-filled Kong. Extra snuggles? Always welcome. An elderly kitty that is content to stay on her heating pad? No problem. I’ll try to be as quiet as possible to not disturb her. I’m almost always at a visit longer than I’m scheduled to be and 9 times out of 10, it’s purely by choice. I don’t set a timer; pets aren’t a meatloaf where it’s Ding!and they’re done. I just want to make sure a pet’s time away from their family is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.-LatreceSee below for details on discounted pet sitting from Latrece!

Thank you for using Gwinnett Pet Watchers for your pet sitting needs and happy holidays!

Sincerely,

Robin Taylor
Gwinnett Pet Watchers

Save on pet sitting!
For the month of January, we are offering a 10% discount on pet sitting when you mention the

“Welcome Latrece Special!”

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