Cold Weather Tips

Brrrr—it's cold outside!  The following guidelines will help you protect your companion animals when the mercury dips. Source: ASPCA 2014

1. Keep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to infectious diseases, including rabies, from other cats, dogs and wildlife. 
    
2. During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape. 
    
3. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm, dogs can easily become lost. Make sure your dog always wears ID tags. 
    
4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted winter wear.

Thankful

I am so thankful for all the wonderful pets and their pet parents who have come into my life over the past ten years.  Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and Blessings for the Holiday Season ahead.

Provide Shelter For Stray Cats

                                              Add hay and an exit hole as well.

Holiday Photo Shoot

Mark your calendars for Holiday Photo Shoot!

November 15, 2014
10 AM to 2PM
Admission: $15
Benefiting: Make-A-Wish New Jersey

It's that time of the year again! Get your holiday cards done early! On November 15th, from 10AM-2PM, Morris Animal Inn will be hosting its Annual Holiday Photo Shoot. Last year's photographer, Hugo Juarez, will be returning again! A $15 sitting fee includes a 5x7 photo, and you may choose a Santa or Winter scene. A portion of the proceeds and 10% of retail sold that day will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

For more information, please call 9735390377 or email marketing@morrisanimalinn.com.

Meet The Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is an, animated companion with an extroverted personality. This compact little dog is an active toy breed with an alert character and fox-like expression. Today, the Pomeranian is a popular companion dog and competitive show dog. They can come in all colors, patterns, and variations although orange and red are the most popular. These tiny dogs are extremely loyal to their owners, making them great watchdogs, playmates, and cuddly companions.  Their puffy, “pom-pom” coat makes them appear larger than the 3 to 7 pounds they normally weigh, and their foxlike face exudes confidence.

Pomeranians are very intelligent dogs that love to please. Because of their outgoing temperaments, they can be very good family dogs with the right training. Due to their small size they don't require much exercise, but are an energetic breed that needs attention from their people frequently. They possess a thick double coat, which needs to be brushed on a regular basis.
Source: AKC

Consider adopting your "forever friend" from an animal shelter.  You will find many pure breeds in shelters. That is where we found our little man.

M'Gee has earned his Angel Wings

We are sad that we needed to say goodbye to our little man last night.  M'Gee was adopted from St. Huberts 13 years ago.  He brought our family much love and happiness.  He certainly will be missed. We are grateful to Lap of Love and Dr. Sandra Simko who made the evening trip to our home.  Her kindness and compassion gave M'Gee much comfort and leaves us with only joy and loving memories of our dear family member.

Dining With Your Doggie

Mark your calendars for Dining With Your Doggie

October 11, 2014
11:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Admission: $10
Benefiting: Pitty Rescue, Inc.

RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST for Dining With Your Doggie at Just Jakes in Montclair to help raise funds for the non-profit organization Pitty Rescue, Inc of Bloomfield, NJ. This special event will be held on the outside patio of Just Jakes on Saturday, October 11, with three reservation required seatings: 11:30 am; 1:15 pm; and 2:45 pm. Just Jakes is located at 30 Park Street in Montclair, NJ. The event will be rain or shine. Please dress for the weather. Suggested donations for Dining With Your Doggie are $10 for dogs, which includes a swag bag and a bowl of doggie stew; and $10 for their human counterparts. Please note that food is not included with the donation for two-legged participants, but they are welcome to order from Just Jake’s fine menu. Due to limited seating, reservations are required by calling(973)903-0999 or by email to ammbfo@gmail.com. When leaving a message, please specify your name, phone number, requested dining time (11:30 am; 1:15 pm; or 2:45 pm), and how many people and dogs in your party. Once a Pitty Rescue representative confirms the reservation, donations may be made through Pitty Rescue’s PayPal at http://www.pittyrescue.com/donate.html. Please bring the paypal receipt upon arriving at Just Jakes.

For more information, please call 973-903-0999 or email ammbfo@gmail.com.

Source:  bringfido.com

Community Pet Blessing

Mark your calendars for Community Pet Blessing!

October 4, 2014
10:00 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
Admission: free

Come with your beloved pets to Packanack Community Church of Wayne (120 Lake Drive East) for a community Blessing of the Animals at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 4. We will gather on the lakeside lawn and circular drive for a procession of pets, acoustic guitar music, laying on of hands in blessing and celebration of all God’s creatures. Bring your leashed, crated or otherwise secured domestic critters and be part of the holy fun. If you are unable to bring your pet, then bring a photo. The tradition of animal or pet blessings is in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all God’s creatures. Francis, whose feast day is October 4, wrote a Canticle of the Creatures: “Praise to you, O Lord, for all these brother and sister creatures.” Our animals are SUCH an important part of our lives and give such love and comfort. Anyone who shares their life with a pet knows the benefits and blessing represented by the creatures God has placed in our lives! Let's gather to give thanks and to honor the gifts we've been given on this special day! We welcome dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, lizards, any and every kind of God's creatures that you spend your life with! All species are welcome to receive a special blessing through the laying on of hands. Rain date: Sunday, October 5 at 1 p.m. For more information, call Pastor Arlene at (973) 694-0608, option 13, or email arlene.romaine@yahoo.com.

For more information, please call (973) 694-0608

Source: bringfido.com

National Association of Professional Pet Sitters

I have been a member of NAPPS since 2005

History

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) was founded in 1989 by a small group of pet sitters. Four years later, NAPPS incorporated as a nonprofit membership organization in order to provide support and serve as a voice for the expanding industry.

As the association grew, NAPPS services and benefits increased, raising the organization's standards of excellence. Membership now hovers around 2,200 pet sitters nationwide. NAPPS continues to flourish and grow, proudly expanding opportunities and services offered to professional pet caretakers and pet parents alike.

Labor Day

Wishing everyone a wonderful day today.

National Dog Day ~ August 26th

National Dog Day (Also known as: International Dog Day & National Dog Appreciation Day) is celebrated August 26th annually and serves to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year, and acknowledges family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort. Dogs put their lives on the line every day - for their law enforcement partner, for their blind companion, for a child who is disabled, for our freedom and safety by detecting bombs and drugs and pulling victims of tragedy from wreckage.

Visit www.nationaldogday.com for more information

NAPPS Emergency Planning Guide for Pet Owners

If disaster strikes - be prepared! 

NAPPS has developed a detailed disaster plan for pet parents to use in the event of an emergency or evacuation. 

• How can you be prepared for hurricanes, fires, floods and blizzards? 
• What supplies should you always have on hand just in case?
• What will you need for your pets in the event of an evacuation?

Nobody expects disaster to strike, which is all the more reason you want to expect the unexpected, to be prepared in case of emergency. Download this FREE emergency planning guide to ensure that if there is an emergency, your pets have every advantage in making it through safe and sound. And be sure to discuss your emergency plan with your pet sitter. 

Click the link ( on the right under Our Favorite Websites) for
The National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters for the free download.

4th Annual New Jersey Week For The Animals

Mark your calendars for 4th Annual New Jersey Week for the Animals!

Aug 16, 2014 to Aug 24, 2014
7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Asbury Park, New Jersey
Admission: free
Benefiting: animals

Animal World USA is pleased to announce the 4th New Jersey Week for the Animals will kick off Saturday, August 16th and run through Sunday, August 24, 2014. The exciting governor-supported celebration will turn the spotlight on and recognize the unique and life-changing role that animals play in the lives of citizens through all walks of life. The week will be highlighting animal shelters, humane organizations, sanctuaries, animal-friendly businesses, youth, community leaders, decision makers and caring citizens in an action-packed compassionate week of community activities for the animals! This extraordinary week will feature a multitude of awesome fun-filled pet adoption events, events for farm animals, festivals and blessing of the animals, wildlife activities, library activities, free and low cost spay/neuter, pet food donations, vegetarian get-togethers, a salute to the military and so very much more! Precious lives will be saved and communities strengthened during this special week. New Jersey Week for the Animals will build relationships that will assist all our efforts to help them. Visit the official website for complete contact info and see growing calendar at http://njanimals.org/

Source:  bringfido.com

National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters Charity

Recognizing the tremendous need for service dogs among veterans of the United States military, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) has selected Paws and Stripes as its official charity.

Paws and Stripes was founded by Lindsey Stanek, whose husband was sent home from his third tour in Iraq for injuries he received on deployment. After nine months in treatment at Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX, Lindsey’s husband, Jim, discovered that the most comfort and relief he found was in the presence of therapy dogs. In May of 2010, Lindsey and Jim tried to obtain a trainer for their rescue dog, Sarge, and soon discovered the difficulty and expenses associated with this process. After being either turned down or unable to pay for service dogs from multiple organizations, Lindsey and Jim decided to start their own organization for veterans, and incorporated the organization in June 2010. To learn more about Paws and Stripes, please visit www.pawsandstripes.org.

Benefits Of Using A Pet Sitter

Using a professional pet sitter reaps benefits for both pets and pet parents. 
Once you experience professional pet care in your home, you'll never worry about being away from your pet again.
For the Pets:
Benefits to your pets include:

• Staying at home in his/her safe, secure environment
• Being surrounded by familiar sights, smells and sounds
• Following his/her regular diet and exercise routine
• Having play time
• Receiving love and personal attention
• Maintaining medical treatment, when required
• Having someone responsible in case of an emergency
• Eliminating the trauma of travel or an unfamiliar environment
• Helping to ensure good health (no exposure to other animals' illness or parasites)

For the Pet Parent:
Benefits to you include:

• Knowing that your pet is in caring, loving hands
• Having the confidence that the pet sitter can deal with other issues - such as grooming, vet visits
• Eliminating the trauma of having to transport and leave your pet
• Not having to impose on family, friends or neighbors
• Feeling your home is more secure (with someone going in and out several times a day)

Not all pet sitters are created equal, nor are they all professional.  In hiring a pet sitter, it is important to make sure you have chosen the right person to care for your beloved animal.

Why should you choose a NAPPS pet sitter? 

Because not every pet sitter is equally professional and competent.

• NAPPS pet sitters have made an investment in their clients and their business.
• NAPPS pet sitters who also volunteer for NAPPS show that they are taking a leadership role in the pet sitting industry.
• NAPPS members can network with pet sitters across the country to get ideas, ask questions, and stay informed.
• NAPPS pet sitters have free education and resources at their fingertips which they can use to take the very best care of your pets.
• NAPPS promotes their members' professional integrity through its Pledge of Professional Conduct.
• NAPPS also advances members' professional and business development through an Annual Conference, educational tools and a certification program.

Your Pet's Drinking Water

Most families consider tap water to be a safe source of drinking

water for their pets, and even their family members. However, there

is a dangerous chemical lurking in the tap water of most homes

in America. Fluoride is a chemical derived from fluorine, which

is found naturally in the earth, water, and minerals. It may be

harmless in its natural state; however, synthesized fluoride, which

is added to tap water, has been shown to have devastating effects to

both animals and humans when consumed.

Protecting Your Community

For those individuals who are concerned about

fluoride in your tap water, there are steps that can

be taken to protect your communities. First, research

the annual water quality report provided by your local

city water department. If fluoride is present in the

tap water in your community, speak out against it

by contacting your state and local officials as well

as your senators. Another way to raise awareness is

by educating the public about the harmful effects of

fluoride on humans and animals. Many communities

have become aware of the evidence that suggests

that fluoride in tap water is harmful and they have

moved toward fluoride free tap water. By raising

awareness, your community can do the same.

Information provided by: “What’s In Your Pet’s Water?” by

Joanne Suresh, www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com

.

Holly Sharpe is an Independent Contractor in the pet

sitting industry and lives in Arizona.

Source:

National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters

Prepare Your Home Before You Go Away

Tips for Pet Parents - From The National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters.

If you are going to be away for a while, take steps to make sure everything is taken care of before you go.

• Double-check your home to make sure it is pet-proofed. Bored pets can chew or destroy things that are left within reach. Make sure wires and cords are out of the way. If you have irreplaceable or fragile items, move them to a room your pets can't access.
• If you have a fenced yard, make sure there are no holes, weak spots, or loose panels that a pet can escape through. 
• If you do have a pet that's known to escape, let your pet sitter know!
• Make sure doors and windows are locked before you leave, and make sure your pet sitter has the key. NEVER hide a key under the doormat or anywhere near the door. 
• Leave a piece of clothing that you've recently worn near where your pet sleeps as a reminder of you.
• Display the name and phone number of your vet in a prominent place.  Show it to the pet sitter before departing.
• Place out appropriate food and water bowls for your pet's use.  Clean them beforehand.
• Put everything needed for your pet's care in a specific area so the sitter doesn't have to search for leashes, food or medications.  Let the sitter know where these items are. And make sure they are well out of reach of your pets!
• If the sitter will be coming in the evening, hook up a timer light so he/she will not have to come to a dark house. It will be homier for your pet as well.
• Some pets, especially those accustomed to having people or children in the house, appreciate background noise such a s aTV or radio. It helps drown out noises from outside, and can also help deter crime.
• It may be helpful to leave an additional key with a neighbor or close friend.  Provide their contact information to your pet sitter.

Meet The Domestic Shorthair Tuxedo

What is a Tuxedo Cat?

A Tuxedo cat is any domestic cat that has a solid black body with white paws, a white underbelly and a white chest.

Even if the markings are less precise, there is still kind of a formal, fancy-pants look to a Tuxedo cat.

 Add a mustache and you have the ultimate Tuxedo cat, and, of course, when it comes to moustaches on cats you have the choice of white face/black moustache...or the even more dashing black face/white moustache affair...

- See more at: http://www.cat-breeds-encyclopedia.com/Tuxedo-cat.html#sthash.5FCeX2RE.dpuf

Meet The Bearded Dragon

Bearded Dragons Bearded dragons are lizards indigenous to Australia, and are commonly kept as pets. These reptiles get their name because of a behavior where they can puff out and darken the skin under their throats, which looks like a beard. They are omnivorous, as they eat both greens and insects. Bearded dragons are one of the most popular of reptile pets.

These gentle beasts are from Australia but are now readily available due to their willingness to breed in captivity. Bearded Dragons make a wonderful pet for both beginners and advanced reptile keepers.

Source: https://www.beardeddragon.org/articles/caresheet/

Atticus is my 10 year old Bearded Dragon. When we brought him home, he was a baby and the size of a Chameleon.  He resides in a very spacious habitat and enjoys a diet of fruits, veggies and purchased insects.

From The Book Green Dog, Good Dog

Safety Is Always Green.

It won't matter how eco-friendly your yard is for your dog if he is not kept safely in it.  An enclosure is only as trustworthy as the people who come in and out of it ( consider a self-closing contraption on the door or a gate that closes off your yard, especially if you have children), and the only way your dog can be reunited with you if he escapes is if he is properly identified.  Therefore:

1) Make sure your fencing is secure and that the gate people pass through into your yard closes properly.

2) Make sure your dog always has his collar on when he is out, and that there is an identification tag on it that gives his name, and your home and cell numbers.

By Dominique De Vito

Pet Fire Safety Day

Tuesday,  July 15. 2014 is National Pet Fire Safety Day

Visit The National Volunteer Fire Council website:  www.nvfc.org for important information.
In the search bar - type "pet fire safety day" and check exact search.  The link to this website can be found under Our Favorite Websites.

If Disaster Strikes - Be Prepared!

          The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters
                                               provides an
                     Emergency Planning Guide for Pet Owners

Visit:  The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters link at Our Favorite Websites and click the Pet Parent link to view this guide.

Meet The Green-Cheeked Conure

Green-Cheeked Conure Species Profile

Traits:  A green-cheeked conure’s comical and affectionate nature has made it a popular pet bird, but it can be shier than other conures. Although they are less inclined to gnawing or chewing than most conures, green-cheeked conures still enjoy chewing. Often described as being a big bird in a small bird’s body, this pet bird is a good choice for owners with limited space because of its small size. In effort to attract their owner’s attention, green-cheeked conures often hang upside down, hide under papers and dance around on their perches. While the owner is away, the green-cheecked conure can happily entertain itself if provided with plenty of toys in the cage, but once the owner is home, this conure needs plenty of time interacting with its human companion.Behavior/Health Concerns:  Green-cheeked Conures need interesting entertainment and interaction. Feather picking and susceptibility to psittacine diseases are problems owners may encounter with this species of pet bird. Both breeders and pet owners favor the green-cheeked conure because it is typically a less expensive and quieter pet bird that is a successful breeder in captivity. Green-cheeked conures are also known for being gutsy. Some owners have witnessed them fearlessly taunting larger pet birds in the house, which means a green cheek's owner must be attentive when the birds are out of their cages. The green-cheeked conure species has three color mutations that have made it a popular pet bird. Cinnamon and yellow-side colors are growing in popularity, and the blue mutation is the newest, imported from Europe.

Celebrate The Fourth of July

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July, 2014.  May your celebration include family and friends, great food and excellent weather.  Remember to take pet precautions this Holiday weekend.  As the weather reports call for continued hot temperatures, keep all pets well hydrated, cool and away from the loud noise of parades and fireworks.

This Month I begin my tenth year in pet care.  I am grateful for all the "family members" who have blessed my life.  I thank you, the pet parents, for your continued trust in me.  It has been a pleasure.

Sincerely,
Julie

Meet The Bullmastiff

​If you see a Bullmastiff coming down the street you’ll stop listening to whatever your friend is saying and feel a strong urge to get a closer look. If it’s a puppy, forget it—you won’t be able to resist. Powerfully built, with a deep chest and an alert expression, the Bullmastiff makes a big impression. Because of his “guarding” nature, he needs lots of playtime early on with other dogs and people. Luckily for you, he’s a quick learner!

PERSONALITY:

Brave, affectionate, and loyal, the Bullmastiff will always have your back.

COAT & GROOMING:

Short, flat, and dense, so a weekly brushing is all he needs.

ENERGY LEVEL:

Somewhat Active; Calm and low-key, but they do well at lots of different dog sports, like agility, and make great therapy dogs.

ORIGINALLY: ENGLAND

NICKNAMES: NONE

SIZE: LARGE

Source: American Kennel Club

Meet The Border Collie

MEET THE BORDER COLLIE
The workaholic of the dog world, the Border Collie is the world's premier sheep herder, prized for its intelligence, extraordinary instinct and working ability. Medium-sized and athletic, the breed controls stock with stalking movement and an intense gaze known as "eye." The Border Collie coat can be rough or smooth and includes any color in bi-color, tri-color, merle, sable, or solid patterns.

A Look Back
In the border country between Scotland and England, Border Collies (first classified as the "Scotch Sheep Dog") were invaluable to shepherds by allowing them to maintain large flocks of sheep. The breed as we know it today has been around for more than 100 years. In the second half of the 19th century, Queen Victoria spotted a Border Collie and became an active enthusiast. At this point, the divergence between our modern Collie and the Border Collie began.

Right Breed for You?
This high-drive breed is extremely energetic and requires exercise beyond just a walk around the block or a romp in the yard. They thrive when they have a job to do and space to run. Due to their tendency to herd objects and people, they do best with mature, well-behaved children. They love their families, but may be somewhat reserved with strangers. They are seasonal shedders, and require regular brushing.

Source: The American Kennel Club

Sheepdog Trials at Fosterfield Farm Morristown NJ

The trials are off to a great start today.  There is plenty of shade for the Border Collies, Sheep, Handlers and Spectators.  Bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets and settle in for a fun and informative day watching the Collies and learning about the work they love to do.  Admittance to the  trials also allows you to tour the living Farm at Fosterfield.  The trials go today until 5pm and resume tomorrow from 10 am until 5pm. Enjoy.

It Is Important To Read Pet Food Labels

Ethoxyquin, a chemical found in low quality pet food has been linked to a variety of skin, immune and reproductive disorders.
Source:  Animal Wellness Magazine

Take the time to read the labels and make wise decisions.

Best Ways To Keep Your Pet Mentally Healthy

Exercise them.  A tired dog is a good dog.  Serotonin, a natural mood stabilizer, is generated in the brain during exercise.

Keep things interesting.  Hold boredom or stress at bay by setting up pets' environments, both indoors and outdoors, in ways that keep them fulfilled, occupied and challenged.

Speak their language.  We rely on spoken words, but pets can decipher body signals like they are reading a book.  Talk to them, keep command words short and sweet and be aware of the body language cues you are communicating.

Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman
Veterinary Behaviorist,
Director of the Animal Behavior Clinic at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine


Source:  Fetch ~ the pet magazine with a healthy pedigree

National Pet Week

May 4 ~ 10 is National Pet Week.  Be kind to the animals in your life.
 This week.  Next week.  Every day.

Cat Adoption Today In Madison

Cause 4 Paws Cat Adoption
Today: Sat, May 3rd
11am - 2 pm
Madison Pet Shop
25 Main St.
Madison, NJ

From Kramer's and Jackie"s Parents

We have been using the services of  Top Hat And Tails Pet Sitting  for years and are thrilled to have someone we can rely on to take care of our precious cats.
Julie is a dedicated care giver, who helps us leave with peace of mind.
Besides the obvious connection she has developed with our cats, here are two things that we really appreciate:  When she sends us a text/email, she make sure to start with: "everything is ok at home".  It might look like a detail but these simple words are critical to avoid a sensation of panic when we are far away.
When we get back we always have a diary that we look forward to reading so we know how the cats were while we were away from them.
We would recommend Julie to anybody seeking loving care for their pets.

Do All Reptiles Or Amphibians Need UV Light?

Not all herps need UV light. Nocturnal species like leopard geckos do not require UV light in captivity
because they do not require it in the wild since they are only active at night and never receive UV. Most
people also agree that snakes do not require UV light since they obtain vitamin D3 from their prey items.

Other animals like Green Iguanas, American Anoles, and Bearded Dragons all need UVB light. Diurnal
herps from the tropics or desert will require more UVB than other herps and there are products specifically
marketed for these animals. Without UVB these animals will suffer metabolic disorders and softening of
their bones that will eventually lead to death years before their life expectancies.


There are several different ways of providing UV light to your animals. Common options include
fluorescent tubes, fluorescent power compact bulbs, mercury vapor bulbs and good old fashion sunshine.
Please also keep in mind that glass, plexi-glass filter almost all UV light. Even fine mesh can reduce the
amount of UV light delivered to the animal. That is why, if possible, there be nothing between the UV
light source and the animal.

Fluorescent bulbs that provide UVA/UVB light have been available for many years and are fairly
reliable. They are the least expensive bulbs, usually available for about $20 each or less. Please keep in
mind that there are few standards when marketing these bulbs and they are all not made the same. Some
manufactures such as Zoo Med® and Exo-Terra® as well as many others make excellent fluorescent bulbs.
“Black lights” or plant lights do not usually provide sufficient UVB light and are not appropriate for
exclusive use with animals that require UV light.

This is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommend that a concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of interest. 

Source: Western New York Herpetological Society

              and The National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters

Reducing Your Best Friend's Carbon Paw Print

Check out the book ~ Green Dog, Good Dog by Dominique De Vito.  There are " green choices" we can all make that will benefit our dogs and our planet.  This book is fun and informative. It is full of great ideas on being a green dog owner.

Animals are such agreeable friends ~ They ask no questions, they pass no criticism.
~ George Eliot

Mid~Day Walks Available For Chatham Area

I currently have availability in my schedule for mid~day dog walking.  If your work schedule makes it difficult for you to return home so your canine buddy gets "relief"; give me a call.  I look forward to speaking with you.  I have many happy and satisfied clients who will give you feedback on my commitment to excellant service.   973.216.4077

Car Restraint Laws

In New Jersey,  It is illegal to drive with an improperly restrained dog.  Dogs are not allowed to hang out of windows or ride in the beds of pick up trucks.  Motorists are required to buckle up dogs with restraints specifically designed for pets, or to safely stow them in pet crates.  Fines can range from $250 ~ $1,000 and drivers of cars containing unrestrained dogs could could potentially face charges under animal cruelty laws.

Source: National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters ~ Professional Pet Sitters Magazine 2014

Winter Safety Tips

Be aware while walking your dog in the street.  Many storm drains are covered by snow.  A dog can easily become injured if their leg slips through the openings.

Certain hand-warmers may contain elemental iron that can be harmful if dogs and cats ingest them.  Depending on the amount ingested and other factors.  Because of the risk of serious illness or even death from iron poisoning, the ASPCA urges pet owners to  keep all products containing iron out of the reach of the animals.  Should an accidental exposure occur, owners should contact their local veterinarian and/or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24 hour hotline at 888.426.4435.

Source: ASPCA