Dogs who are under-drinkers tend to not drink enough water. This can lead to dehydration, kidney stones, organ failure or even death. Under-drinkers, or dehydrated dogs will often have skin that “tents”, or does not move back into place quickly. They will also have pale, sticky gums. Over-drinkers can have just as many health problems, including stomach bloat, diabetes, or bladder infection. Over-hydrated dogs may be lethargic or vomit frequently.

A dog’s size matters in the amount of water they should be drinking. On average, a dog will drink about an ounce of water per pound of body weight, each day. The amount of water a dog drinks is just as important to their diet as the quality of food they eat, also. If you’re taking your dog out with you, remember to always bring a bottle of water with you, so you dog doesn’t become dehydrated. After strenuous exercise, include ice cubes in your dogs water, to help cool their body quicker, especially during the summer. Another important consideration is whether or not a dog is on medication. Some medications will affect a dog’s thirst, so make adjustments will have to be made to accommodate their water needs.

Four Paws requires that all sitters refill all pet bowls with fresh water on each visit, and they monitor the water intake of all pets while they’re in our care. Call today to book your appointment!
919-388-PAWS
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Every dog has two small glands located on each side of their rectum. These glands are like sacs that hold fluid, which provide lubrication for your dog when they defecate. A small amount of brownish fluid is released, each with a unique smell to each dog, leaving their scent behind each time they pee or poop.

Have you ever noticed how dogs immediately sniff each other’s behinds when they meet? That’s because their bodies excrete trace amounts of the unique smelling fluid held in the anal glands, that identifies each dog from each other.

Some dogs never have problems with their anal glands, while others need weekly maintenance to ensure good health. If anal glands do no express properly or back up, it can lead to bacterial infection of the glands. As with any infection, left untreated, the infection can spread or lead to ruptured abcesses, which make the problem worse.

Many doctors link the health of anal glands to the quality of food that the dog is fed. Lower quality foods lead to soft stool, which doesn’t press firmly enough against the anal glands. In turn, the anal glands cannot naturally express and then the anal glands become impacted. Firmer stools will help your dog express their anal glads comfortably and naturally. Signs that your dogs anal glands are impacted include:

• Your dog “scoots” or drags their bottom across the floor.
• Frequent licking or chewing near the rectum.
• Foul odor near your dog’s bottom.

Many veterinarians can show owners how to properly express their dog’s anal glands. Also, many experiences groomers can express anal glands properly, and include it as part of their grooming regiment. Many owners choose to allow their dog’s groomer to express the anal glands, due to the unpleasant smell.

Four Paws can recommend veterinarians or groomers that are experienced in expressing anal glands. Call us to book a pet taxi to your vet or groomer!
919-388-PAWS
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Allergies can be a big factor in whether or not your pet should be sleeping in the bed with you. Many people are allergic to pet dander, but would rather suffer through it than kick their pet out of bed. One possible solution is to get an allergy shot, to lessen the effects of these allergic reactions.

Many people do not consider what their pets bring in with them from the great outdoors. Yes, you probably treat your pet monthly for fleas, ticks and heartworms, but that doesn’t mean that these insects can’t catch a ride into your home courtesy of your pet. Always check your pets over for insects before letting them sleep in the bed with you.

Diseases such as cat scratch disease, a bacterial disease can also be a factor in considering letting your pet sleep with you. Bacterial diseases can cause various problems within the body, such as liver and kidney problems, as well as swelling of the lymph nodes, simply from the bite, scratch or lick of an infected cat.

Pets can also be blanket hogs! Consider the size of your pet, their sleeping habits as well as your own, and what will be most comfortable for the both of you. If your pet fidgets, scratches or kicks in their sleep, it can lead to insomnia or other sleeping problems for their owners. It may be best that if your pet has a bed of their own next to yours.

Did you know that Four Paws does overnight visits? These are very exclusive visits, so book now!
919-388-PAWS
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If at all possible, it’s best to place your tree in a room that isn’t accessible to your cat. For many us, that’s not possible, but if your cat accepts restrictions, it’s best to keep the cat and the tree separated.

Place your tree in a stable and secure tree stand. Many trees can tower over us, taller than six feet and very heavy. Some veterinarians and pet professionals even recommend securing trees with fish line or rope to ensure that the tree won’t fall over on a mischievous pet. Cats are especially curious when it comes to new items in the house, and we all know that they love to climb. A Christmas tree is the perfect place for your cat to get into lots of trouble. Make sure your tree is especially secure if you’re a cat parent.

Intestinal blockages can also be caused by tinsel and artificial snow. Most of the time, if tinsel is ingested, it requires surgery to have it removed. It’s best to leave it off the tree altogether. Tinsel if especially attractive to cats, since it’s just shiny string! Many people like to decorate with artificial snow, which can be mildly toxic and, if ingested in large amounts, can cause intestinal blockages.

One of the most common and dangerous threats associated with Christmas trees is the electrical cords from the lights. Chewing or playing with electrical cords can cause electrical shock and death. Many cords also become very hot when they’re plugged in for long periods of time, which can cause burns. Always unplug lights when they’re not in use, and use Bitter Apple or other deterrent spray to keep interested animals away from electrical cords.

Keep breakable ornaments away from a pet’s reach. Shattered glass ornaments can cause cuts or tears in paws, the mouth and intestines. Keep breakable ornaments near the top of the tree.Try to avoid decorating the tree with any food, such as candy canes or gingerbread. It can be very tempting, but can cause sugar problems, intestinal issues or choking hazards.

Finally, keep your cat from drinking the water out of the tree stand. Many times the tree can have bacteria or fungus from the outdoors, which may be harmful to your pet. Many tree distributors will give out additives with preservatives to put into the tree water, which can be toxic to cats.

Keep your pets safe this holiday season, and book with Four Paws! We’ll keep these holiday hazards out of your pet’s way.
919-388-PAWS
www.4pawspetsitting.com
info@4pawspetsitting.com

Dogs and owners always love toys that will keep the dog busy for long periods of time. Toys like Kong or Planet Dog design toys that allow treats or stuffing to be put inside of them. Not only can these toys be time consuming, they’re intellectually stimulating and fun for dogs! Dogs can always use more food and water bowls, since their dishes have to washed and cleaned frequently. Extra leashes, collars, harnesses and poop bags are small items that can be used as spares, kept in the car, daycare, at a family member’s house, or with their pet sitter.

Cats have various types of toys that they prefer, also. Many times, toys that allow the owner to spend extra time with their cat are greatly appreciated. Cats can generally entertain themselves with simple toys like furry mice, catnip, rattle balls, or hanging toys. Cats and owners can always use spare cat litter scoopers, cat litter refresher, or cartridges for automatic litterboxes.

Small animals, like ferrets, gerbils and guinea pigs use bedding frequently, and can use equipment like water bottles, toys, exercise wheels and food bowls.

Another great gift idea for all types of animals are pet sitting gift certificates! Call us today to purchase a gift certificate in any amount toward pet sitting for your favorite animal!
919-388-PAWS
www.4pawspetsitting.com
info@4pawspetsitting.com

Did you know that the most common and biggest threat to a dog’s feet during winter is the salt used for de-icing? Prolonged exposure to salt and other chemicals can cause painful chemical burns on your dog’s paw pads. Always try and keep them on grass or untouched snow during their walks.

After coming back inside after walks, the best thing to do is to wipe your dog’s paws off with warm water and towel. The same de-icing chemicals many stay on a dog’s paw pads and may later be ingested. This ingestion of these chemicals can be toxic to dogs.

Your groomer can be one of the most valuable to people to your dog’s health during the winter months, especially if you own a long-haired breed. Walking in the snow can cause snow to collect in between the paw pads and cause ice balls to accumulate between their toes. These ice balls can be painful if they’re stuck between the toes for long periods of time. Visit the groomer regularly to keep the hair between your dog’s toes trimmed to a safe and comfortable length.

Like humans, dog extremities can be greatly affected by the cold. Don’t allow dogs to be exposed to cold weather for long periods of time, and make sure they have access to warm, dry areas, to avoid hypothermia and frostbite. Limit your dog’s exposure to the outdoors to many short walks during the day, instead of one or two long walks. These short exposures to cold weather can also keep the threat of dry, itchy skin away from your dog as well.

An additional options for some dogs are booties or weather boots. Do you think your dog would be accepting of wearing shoes? It’s worth a try! They can be very protective for your dog’s feet during the harsh winter months!

While we are are walking your dogs whether it is a mid day dog walk or we are pet sitting while you are away we will be happy to put booties on your dogs if you have them, just let us know!

Four Paws walk dogs in all kinds of weather. We can schedule multiple dog walks a day, so your dog can avoid long exposure to bad weather. Call us today to book your winter visits!
919-388-PAWS
www.4pawspetsitting.com
info@4pawspetsitting.com

Place your tree in a stable and secure tree stand. Many trees can tower over us, taller than six feet and very heavy. Some veterinarians and pet sitters even recommend securing trees with fish line or rope to ensure that the tree won’t fall over on a mischievous pet.

Sweep up the needles. Christmas tree needles can cause irritation in the mouth and stomach, and can even be toxic to some pets. Many fake trees have small wires through the branches that can cause intestinal blockages.

Intestinal blockages can also be caused by tinsel and artificial snow. Most of the time, if tinsel is ingested, it requires surgery to have it removed. It’s best to leave it off the tree altogether. Many people like to decorate with artificial snow, which can be mildly toxic and, if ingested in large amounts, can cause intestinal blockages.

One of the most common and dangerous threats associated with Christmas trees is the electrical cords from the lights. Chewing or playing with electrical cords can cause electrical shock and death. Many cords also become very hot when they’re plugged in for long periods of time, which can cause burns. Always unplug lights when they’re not in use, and use Bitter Apple or other deterrent spray to keep interested animals away from electrical cords.

Keep breakable ornaments away from a pet’s reach. Shattered glass ornaments can cause cuts or tears in paws, the mouth and intestines. Keep breakable ornaments near the top of the tree.
Try to avoid decorating the tree with any food, such as candy canes or gingerbread. It can be very tempting, but can cause sugar problems, intestinal issues or choking hazards.

Remember, no tinsel on the tree either!

Finally, keep your dog from drinking the water out of the tree stand. Many times the tree can have bacteria or fungus from the outdoors, which may be harmful to your pet. Many tree distributors will give out additives with preservatives to put into the tree water, which can be toxic to dogs.

Keep your dogs pets safe this holiday season, and book with Four Paws!

We’ll keep these holiday hazards out of your pet’s way.

We provide pet sitting for dogs, cats and other small pets in Raleigh, Cary, Morrisville, Garner, Wake Forest, Knightdale, Holly Springs and even Wilson Mills, NC.

Please visit our website and view our pet sitters and dog walkers.
919-388-PAWS
www.4pawspetsitting.com
info@4pawspetsitting.com

Many times, the problem is that a dog didn’t have enough positive experiences with a variety of unfamiliar people during his sensitive period for socialization. During socialization experiences, they meet and greet all types of people in many types of environments and good things happen to them. Simultaneously, they begin to understand that people are generally friendly. If these positive experiences continue as they age, the accepting and friendly demeanor around people becomes part of their overall personality. Those dogs who didn’t get the type and amount of positive experiences they needed as a puppy can end up making them fearful around some or all unfamiliar people.
Of course, many times people just make the situation worse. Pet owners should always remind new visitors to ask to pet their dog first. Instead, well-wishers approach too quickly and scare the dog. Dogs react in various ways, including being totally still, all the way to vocalizing displeasure in a bark or growl.
Some owners respond by reprimanding or punishing their dog. This can teach the dog that they’d better hide their fear. Owners should always try and make the dog feel secure and safe, by reassuring them in a safe way.
One of the most important ways to help with this problem is understanding body language. A tense body with eyes darting back and forth or his gaze looking away while cowering. Sometimes a dog will start moving in slow motion or his ears suddenly toward the back, while looking worried. Often their tail is down low, or even between their legs, touching the stomach. These are all signs of anxiety or fear.
The solution? Humans should let dogs approach them at their own pace and should reassure pets with treats or toys. Humans should always remember to provide safe, happy, secure situations to a dog, without expecting reciprocation (petting, cuddles, etc.). This helps provide positive first experiences and positive future experiences for these otherwise fearful pets.

Four Paws works with all types of pet personalities. Call us for a consultation, and we’ll match you and your pet with the perfect pet sitter!
919-388-PAWS
www.4pawspetsitting.com
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Book as early as possible. The earlier you can meet your pet sitter and make sure your pet accepts them, the better. Your pet may not immediately warm up to someone, so it may take a few extra visits with your pet sitter before you go, for your pet to fully accept this new person into their life. Also, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to be able to reserve the exact times your are looking for. The closer to the holiday it gets, the more likely it is that your pet sitter will be booked up. Book early, and take one less stress off of your mind!

Be flexible. Be flexible with consultation times, visit times and any other issues that may arise. Remember that your pet sitter is working with multiple families and pets, and may need your help in arranging times and dates for consultations and initial visits.

Be informative. Let your pet sitter know any information about your home, pet, neighbors, lights, decorations, alarm, etc. These facts are important to your pet sitter because it helps keep them safe, as well as your property. If anything seems abnormal, your pet sitter can let you know as soon as possible, and prevent any further questions.

Be understanding. Your pet sitter is visiting multiple homes and multiple pets. Each home is different and each pet is different. Your pet sitter may contact you for a quick additional question or confirmation on information, just to make sure that they are completing all tasks properly. Also, please understand that your pet sitter has a family of their own. In between their busy holiday visits, they may also be visiting with their own families and enjoying their private time. We do our best to respond to calls and emails as quickly as possible, but we also enjoy spending time with our loved ones on holidays!

Keep your sitter updated. If you’re leaving early, staying later or need visits added, let your pet sitter know as soon as possible. Your pet sitter’s schedule is a custom creation, based on existing clients, required visits and the time they have available. Any changes to their schedule must be made as soon as possible, in order to accommodate everyone and make the necessary adjustments.

The holidays are a fun and exciting time for everyone, but don’t forget about your pets! Four Paws has pet sitters available throughout all of Wake County and beyond. Book as soon as possible to ensure your pets are cared for throughout this holiday season.

919-388-PAWS

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Acorns can be one of the most common dangers to dogs during the Fall season. Acorns that have fallen from an oak tree are especially dangerous to dogs, because it can cause renal failure. Many dogs love to nose through crunchy, fallen leaves and find acorns to munch on. Due to the acids naturally found in acorns, dogs can begin to have bloody diarrhea and elevated kidney numbers. Both of these are signs of renal failure.

Oak leaves alone can be dangerous to dogs. Does your dog have an out door water bowl? Make sure it’s always kept full with clean water. Any water that has had oak leaves soaking in it can be toxic to dogs. The same acids found in oak tree acorns is also found in the leaves, and can be released after soaking in water. Simply drinking this water can also lead to renal failure.

Another factor in acorn safety for your dogs in gastrointestinal blockage. If a dog, especially a smaller breed, swallows an acorn whole, it can be deadly. These blockages in the intestinal tract can cause failures throughout the body, and can be extremely painful.

Oak acorns are one of many things that can be harmful to dogs in nature. Keep strange or unusual objects out of your pet’s reach, and always keep a list of possible dangers close by, in case your pet ingests something questionable.

Four Paws can leave a copy of dangerous foods to pets during our in-home pet visits. Just let us know if you’d like a copy!
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