Convincing Your Family to Get a Dog

Do you really, really want a dog? Does your family object to your dream of bringing a furry friend into the house? You don’t need to fret – there are ways to butter up your loved ones and pave the way for a tomorrow filled with slobbery tennis balls and bacon flavored treats.

Photo Copyright by Maja Dumat, used here
under the Creative Commons License. 

The first thing you can do is avoid bringing up the subject. Don’t tell people fifty times a week that you strongly desire a dog. This may annoy the individuals you talk to, and they may sour on the whole thing. Give everybody time to sit and think about the idea of having a dog. Show understanding and patience – never pout or press the issue. This doesn’t mean you can’t think about dogs at all, you simply have to keep it to yourself as much as possible until the right time comes.

Let your family know that you don’t have to spend a fortune on the well-being of the dog. There are many affordable alternatives to the care and feeding of a pet. For example, it’s possible to purchase toys on clearance at local pet stores. You can take Fido to doggie day care or hire a dog walker without the worry that your wallet will suffer. Put in the research and show your family not everything costs an arm and a leg – in this case, paw.

A dog is a wonderful addition to any household. Dogs provide companionship and affection, and you would be hard-pressed to find a better alternative to owning one. Despite this, some people may not immediately warm to the idea of having an animal in the house. You have to present them with the right information. Find the best breed and plan for your family and you can’t go wrong.

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a brand new KIND of pet sitting company, unique in the entire nation! Bringing a new level of professionalism, training, and security to the pet sitting industry, we offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more. We are bonded and insured, background checked, professionally trained and supervised. And each sitter is backed up by a team of each qualified professionals. All our sitters are trained in Pet First Aid, Pet CPR, Professional Standards, Emergency Response and much more. 
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Hazards in Your Purse: Keeping Your Dog Safe

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under the Creative Commons License. 

When you think of things that bring harm to your pet, your purse may not register on your radar. After all, it’s just a purse. However, the contents of your purse can be dangerous to your curious pooch if you don’t take the proper precautions. The nicotine found in cigarettes is toxic, and hand sanitizers have alcohol in them – your dog could suffer from alcohol poisoning by licking a bottle or chewing a wipe. Even seemingly harmless sugarless gum carries chemicals dangerous to nonhumans. What can you do to keep your needed supplies and have a safe and healthy dog at the same time?

Keep Your Purse off the Floor

The first thing you can do is remove temptation. This means keeping your purse in areas your dog can’t reach like high shelves or behind a closed door. If you must keep your purse out in the open, invest in a purse with a zipper at the top. Don’t forget to use the zipper – never leave it open.

Supervise Your Dog

Pay attention to what your dog does and act appropriately. If you think your dog has their eye on the goodies nestled in your purse, distract the dog with their favorite toy or take them elsewhere.

Purses may not be a source of entertainment to you, but your dog may feel otherwise. Don’t let your pet access your purse and taste the items within as they may get very sick. If you don’t know what to do next, talk to your dog trainer or dog walker. They will have experience in the world of dogs, and if nothing else, they may know where you can go for help. Your vet is also an indispensable source of information, so make sure you have access to their phone number.

Be wise… Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in Central Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more. We are bonded and insured, with background checks and references. Be wise... Bewaggle!

Socializing with Your Dog When You’re In a Bad Mood

We all have our episodes. Maybe you missed the bus that takes you to work, or perhaps somebody spilled a drink on your new sweater – you know, the one you saved for months to afford? No matter what we come across during the day, in the end we have to go home. Home is where your family is, and that includes your dog. How can you avoid taking out your frustrations on your beloved pet? It isn't as difficult as you might think, and it doesn't involve spending money.

Don’t Overindulge Your Dog, No Matter How Tempting

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under the Creative Commons License. 

Some people shower their pets with gifts when they get home. They may do this to repel feelings of unhappiness and guilt – don’t make this mistake. If you stop at the store and purchase an armful of stuffed toys, the household budget could crack under the strain. By the same token, try to stop yourself from giving your dog too many treats. Don’t sacrifice your dog’s health in your quest to feel better for a few minutes. 

Keep Your Distance

If you have the urge to yell, walk away until you calm down. Screaming at your dog benefits nobody, especially if the dog isn't misbehaving. You might confuse your dog and make a bad situation worse.

Everybody has a lousy day every now and then, but you don’t have to vent your grievances on your pet. Take the time to think the situation through, and don’t do something that may come back to bite you in the future. Our furry friends can teach us a lesson in living life in the moment, so grab that squeaky toy and get playing!

Be wise… Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in Central Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more. We are bonded and insured, with background checks and references. Be wise... Bewaggle!

Taking Your Dog on a Picnic

Who can resist the siren call of summer? The tropical breeze and distinctive smell of barbecued treats are something many people crave as the seasons change. If you want to step out into the sun with your dog and savor a meal at the park, take the time to plan and prep.

Photo Copyright by Paul Stainthorp, used here
under the Creative Commons License. 

First, choose a location that works for you and your dog. For example, a place with a lot of shade helps to keep everyone cool and happy. You can hardly enjoy your snack with the sun blaring in your face, and your pooch will be better off in a place where you can keep an eye on them.  If you think there might be an emergency, stay close to your car.

Second, pack supplies to make your waste removal duties easy. A number of pet owners bring small bags to use to pick up after their dogs, and you can follow their lead. You don’t need to spend money on bags. You can use plastic grocery bags if you so please. Don’t leave animal waste behind – it’s unsanitary and rude to people who visit the park or other public places.

Finally, food is paramount to any picnic. Remember to pack something appropriate for your dog. Bring a few of your dog’s favorite treats, or create something unique and tasty in the kitchen. Don’t forget to bring water. Dogs should never eat chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or avocados. Consult a recipe book catered to pets or look online to learn more. If your dog has a habit of stealing people food, look into puppy training to nip the problem in the bud.

When the time comes to take your pet out to partake in revelry, don’t forget to be smart with your picnic haul. With the right plan, you can help your dog live a long and happy life.

Be wise… Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

To shave or not to shave

It's starting to feel like summer and we want to keep our pets comfortable. Many dog owners assume that a dog with long hair will naturally be more comfortable in these hot months if they clip their coats short.  It makes sense - or it certainly seems to - but for many breeds, you'd actually be doing him more harm than good.  

We take one look at a long haired dog and wonder how they manage in the summer heat.  We think that when we shave our pets we are helping them to stay cool. But, shaving your pet may cause more harm than good.  Most of those breeds with thick fluffy coats actually need that fur because it provides insulation that helps to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When you shave your dog you are robbing him of that insulation and exposing his skin to the sun.  Unlike us, dogs don't sweat (except for the bottoms of their feet), so exposing their skin to the air doesn't affect them the way it does us.  Dogs with thick, fluffy coats will be cooler if you keep their insulation in tact, than they will if you clip their hair short.  

It's counter-intuitive, and you might not believe me.  But ask your veterinarian.  Your dog's temperature control system is reliant on that insulation.  If you clip it off, you're dog will be more exposed to the heat and the sun.


Speaking of sun...

Your dog's skin is sensitive to the sun just like yours is, and they can get sunburns too. If you plan to have your dog outdoors in the sun, protect his skin.  Your vet or groomer can recommend a sun screen that's developed specifically for your dog's sensitive skin, and one that won't harm him of he licks it. Apply it on all the places where your dog's skin is exposed, like on the bridge of his nose or on his belly to protect his skin. 

Be wise... Bewaggle! 

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Training Tip

YOU GET WHAT YOU REINFORCE – NOT NECESSARILY WHAT YOU WANT

When your dog does something you don't like, chances are, it's something you have been reinforcing, maybe without even realizing it.  For example, think about a dog that begs at the table.  He sits beside you, whimpering, and maybe he puts a paw on your leg.  You tell him no, but he comes back a moment later and starts whimpering again.  And again with the paw.  Maybe he gives you that irresistible tip of the head, and another little whimper.  And then, he seals the deal by placing his chin on your knee.  He's so dang cute.  How could you resist?  So you break of a nibble from your dinner and give it to him, saying, "OK, fine, here's a bite. Now go lie down."   Your dog has just learned that if he persists, he will get you to do what he wants.  He's not about to go lie down, he's going to continue the whimpering and pawing, because that's what you've reinforced.  The solution is simple, but not always easy.  You have to ignore his begging completely, and ask him to do something for you (like “sit”). A you can NEVER give him a treat while you're sitting at the table, because doing so would only encourage him to beg.  If he's a good boy for you while you eat, reward him with praise and treats AFTER you've finished your meal. 

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Itching Issues

Is your dog or cat itching and scratching all the time and driving you nuts? If it is driving you crazy, imagine how your pet feels! Lots of pets have issues with itchy skin and there is a cure... In fact, there are lots of them.  The challenge is figuring out which one will help your pet. First you have to determine what is causing the problem.

The root of the problem could either be environmental, nutritional, parasitic, allergic, neurogenic, or infectious in nature. Finding out the underlying cause will probably require a trip to the vet. Sometimes the cure is as simple as changing their food (they might need something more nutritious or they could be allergic to one of the ingredients) or mixing in a little olive oil with their meals. (It is good for the skin and coat.) Also, wiping off your dog's paws when he comes inside can help. They can have an allergic reaction to the chemicals that get sprayed on the yard. 

Sometimes they do it to themselves just because they are bored or they have separation anxiety (see our blog on boredom and separation anxiety here). However, itching can be a sign of something more serious, so you should get it checked out early. A lot of the time they need medications for allergies, parasites, and infections. Work with your vet to determine the cause of your pet's discomfort and start treatment.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Ear Infections in Cats

Ear infections are actually quite common in cats, and they can be caused by a number of factors. These might include bacteria, fungi, mites, some medications, and even diabetes.  They symptoms are pretty obvious, usually, and they can include a discharge from the ear, head shaking, swollen ear flaps, ears that have a foul odor, and extra sensitivity to the ears being touched. 

If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, it's certainly a good idea to have him checked out by your veterinarian.  Once the vet has determined the cause of the infection, a treatment plan will be prescribed that may include regular ear cleaning, eardrops, oral medications, and in severe cases, surgery.

Some breeds are also more susceptible to ear infections than others, so keep an eye on your cat for signs of infection.  Most ear infections respond well to treatment, but only a veterinarian can properly diagnose and treat them.  So have your kitty checked if it's showing symptoms such as those listed above.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Not All People Foods are Bad for Your Pets

We’re often reminded that giving our pets table scraps is bad for them, because it contributes to both obesity and unwanted behaviors.   And there are some people foods that are actually toxic for our pets.  But not all people foods are bad for them.  In fact, many veterinarians agree that the very best foods for your pets are those foods you prepare for them yourself, in your own kitchen. 

In her book “Dinner Pawsible”,  Dr. Cathy Alinovi explains that one of the reasons your dog begs at the table is because he craves real food! (Can you blame him?) And she provides tips and recipes made from healthy people foods that your pets will love.  These healthy, balanced meals, that you can prepare yourself, are free of the chemicals, preservatives and “by-products” that most packaged pet foods contain.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

More About Hairballs in Cats

This is the second in our series of posts on the topic of Fur Balls in Cats.  If you missed the first one, you can read it here. 

 

·    What are the symptoms of fur balls?

·    Are you having cat fur ball problems?

·    Are there cat fur ball remedies or cat fur ball treatments that can control cat fur balls?

·    Can you even cure cat fur balls?

What does a hairball look like?

Actually, a fur ball doesn’t usually come out round like a golfball.  Usually, it’s more of a football – or even a finger-shaped mass.  If you see one on the floor, you might even mistake it for poop. 

Cats eat grass to help them clear their stomachs.

Have you ever seen your cat eating grass in the yard? Eating grass is a natural way for your cat to induce regurgitation (to vomit). So if your cat has anything indigestible in his stomach, like small bones or a hair ball, eating grass will help him puke it up.

What if you have an indoor cat?

For indoor house cats it’s not that simple. Many people keep their cats – especially long-haired cats - indoors. There are many good reasons to keep a cat indoors, but without natural grass to eat, cats often have difficulty clearing fur balls out of their stomachs.  This is a major problem and can cause your cat serious health issues.  It’s especially common in long-haired cats because longer haired cats can produce a larger hairball simply because they have longer hair.

In our next post, we’ll talk about some tips and strategies for keeping your cats healthy by treating and preventing fur ball problems.  Be sure to subscribe to our blog so you don’t miss this important information.

For the 1st blog on hairballs Click Here.

Be wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

The Yellow Dog Project

Have you ever been out for a walk around the neighborhood, and seen someone walking a dog with a yellow ribbon tied to his collar, or maybe on his leash?  The Yellow Dog Project is really a great idea, and we want to make sure everyone in America understands what it means.

When you see a dog with a yellow ribbon, or bandana, or other yellow attire, it’s a sign that the owner wants you to know that this dog needs a little more space.  It doesn’t mean he’s aggressive or mean, but it does mean that you (and your children, especially) should approach the dog only when the owner tells you it’s OK.

Some dogs are nervous around strangers, and some are just learning how to interact with people outside the house.  The Yellow Dog Project was conceived as a way to alert others that this particular dog needs his space, so people don’t approach him too quickly or get too close for their own safety.  

We’re so happy to share this information with you because it’s such a great idea. All dogs need exercise and an opportunity to learn their social skills. The Yellow Dog Project gives handlers and owners a simple way to let the world know their dog needs a little extra space.  To learn more, visit their website at TheYellowDogProject.com.  

Be wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Overweight Pets: The Gourmet Dog

One of the most common excuses we hear for not putting a dog on a diet is that the dog just won't eat anything except people food.

I want to give my dog better food.
As humans we can't imagine eating dog food, so some dog owners feel that it is not good enough for their dog. Then they feel justified in providing people food when their dog enjoys it so much more than common dog food. Of course they do. It is just like how we love junk food more than salads.  But that doesn't make it healthy. Our dogs will have happier, healthier, and have longer lives if you put them on a healthy dog diet.

My dog won't eat dog food.
If your dog is used to eating steak you may have a little problem with getting your dog to eat dog food, but he will eat it when he gets hungry enough, and if you are consistent, he will eventually come to enjoy it. The important part is not to cave in and feed him people food when he turns his nose up at dog food. Of course he wants the extra yummy people food, but that is not good for him. You may have to take up his bowl and try again at the next meal. It won't hurt your dog to skip a couple meals. Once he realizes that he can't trick you into giving him people food he will eat his dog food without any problems.

You've seen other dogs that go crazy with excitement every time they get their dog food.  Your dog will do that too, if it's the only food he is given.  It's not cruel or inhumane.  It's the appropriate and responsible way to feed a dog.  And he's counting on you to feed him properly so he's able to live a long and healthy life.

Be wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Overweight Pets: The Good Dog

Many pet owners think they are restricting their dog's diet, but forget to include those treats they give them for being a good dog!   He is so good and he deserves a treat.  However those "good dog" treats add up quickly. Treats have more calories than regular dog food. Obviously we want to reward good behavior, but food is not the only reward that you can provide. You can reward your dog with toys, play, and love in place of treats. You should save food rewards for training time.

Just like humans, dogs gain or lose weight based on the number of calories they consume versus the number they burn.  Keep in mind that if you are using food as a reward, then your pup's regular meals need to be smaller. Your good dog deserves the very best - a long happy and healthy life.

Be wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Overweight Pets: The Begger

When the vet tells a pet owner that their dog is overweight and needs to go on a diet, it can be tough to get them to comply. A lot of pet owners think that they can't put their dog on a diet because he is always begging for food. They tell the vet, "He is begging for food - he must be hungry. Besides, how can I say no when he gives me that soulful look?"

Well let's get a few things straight.  First, he is not actually hungry. If he eats on a regular schedule, his dietary needs will be met - I promise.Your dog is begging for food because he knows that you will give him a treat when he begs. It is more about the attention that your dog gets from you than the food.

You can curb the begging by replacing the treat with a toy or play time. If the begging continues, you must ignore it. Do not cave in and reward the begging with food.  That only encourages more begging.

Dogs are smart - they know what works to get what they want. If you set reasonable rules, and you are consistent with the new rules, your dog will figure it out pretty quickly.  And if your dog is overweight, his health and well being are at risk.  If he begs for food, and it's not time for a meal, distract him with a favorite toy, some personal attention, or a walk around the block.  He's not begging because he's hungry, so don't reward him with food.  Your dog's health is too important.

Be wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Dog Exercise 101

Just like humans, dogs need daily exercise, and like us, they benefit best from the right kind of exercise, under the right conditions. It's not safe, for example, to go out in extremely hot or cold weather. During those periods, it’s best to stay inside, but you can still exercise your dog if you get creative.  Remember that dogs need to exercise their minds as well as their bodies, so teaching tricks to engage your dog's mind can have additional benefits.  You can also throw toys, play tug-of-war, or run up and down the stairs together to get their aerobic exercise in, even when the weather outside isn’t right for outdoor play.

Where to get exercise

Like people, most dogs enjoy both familiarity and variety in their exercise routines.  Your dog will get to know the neighborhood during his daily walks, and he may enjoy revisiting his favorite spots.  But the best exercise routines use both mental and physical muscles. Exploring a new hiking trail, for example, or learning a new trick will engage your dog's mind as well as his body.

Your local dog park can be a great place for off-leash exercise and a place to play with other dogs. But if your dog doesn't like other dogs, the dog park is definitely not the place for him.  If he’s not comfortable at the dog park, don’t push him. 

But I can't do this!

Inactive dogs are often overweight dogs, that can cause a number of serious health risks. Obesity contributes to a dog's risk of diabetes, respiratory disease, and heart disease. It also leads to muscular-skeletal problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Obesity can place additional stress on joints, ligaments, and tendons. And older dogs often have a hard enough time getting up without the added problem of lifting excess pounds.

But many dog owners find they simply can’t give their dogs the exercise they need because their own health, or their lifestyle or their schedules don’t allow it.  If you can’t physically keep up with your dog’s exercise needs, or you don’t have the time in your busy schedule to do it, there are options.  These are the most common ones, but your veterinarian may be able to suggest others.

·    Enroll your dog in a doggie day care.  Day cares can provide him with the physical workout and the interactions with both people and other dogs that will leave him tired and content.

·    Hire a dog walker.  A good dog walker (or pet sitter) can provide exercise and mental stimulation that your dog needs, from the convenience of your own home.

Remember that a tired dog is a happy dog, and he’s relying on you  to keep him healthy and happy.  It’s your responsibility as a pet owner.  Take it seriously.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!

Overweight Dogs Need More Exercise!

If your dog is overweight, he’s either getting too much food or too little exercise… or both.  This blog series will focus on both sides of the weight equation, but today, let’s begin with this axiom:  If your dog is overweight, YOU aren't getting enough exercise!  

Dogs especially, need more exercise than most can get on their own, in the house. Like humans, they need both strength and cardio workouts every day. If your dog is overweight, he's consuming more calories than he's burning, and the very best way to correct that imbalance is to add regular, appropriate exercise to his daily routine.  

Generally speaking, a leashed walk around the block isn't going to be enough to keep him healthy, let alone to reduce his weight.  Most healthy dogs need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day, including a hard aerobic workout.

Older dogs, overweight dogs, or dogs with other health issues will need exercise that is specifically designed for their own circumstances, so check with your veterinarian to understand exactly what your dog needs.

And if your own health, schedule or lifestyle doesn’t permit you to provide your dog with the exercise he needs, you should hire someone to exercise him every day.  Your dog relies on you to keep him healthy.  You must take that responsibility seriously.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:

Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!