Pet Health Tips From a Professional Pet Sitter

By Mary Varricchio

As a professional pet sitter I have seen the most curious things from some of the pets I have cared for from utter joy & excitement to unbelievable sadness. The joy when I am on the ground with them playing and they were not quite sure what I was doing on their level. The sadness and pain they showed me to let me know they were at the end of their journey just by the look in their eye. I have traveled down many roads with a lot of these pets in 8 years and have learned so much from them. I follow all these tips while I am pet sitting and with my own pets.

Cleaning water and food dishes at each meal is important. For dogs, scooping up the poop, and then, disposing of the waste responsibly, litter boxes should be scooped daily depending on the number of litter boxes and cats. Litter box lids are sprayed down daily and scoops are cleaned, as well. Generally speaking litter boxes are washed out weekly and new litter is added. Liners should be replaced weekly.

Grooming or bathing is dependent upon the breed and the animal, of course. All pets love massages and combing. Whether bringing to the groomer or bathing yourself, knowing your pets likes, dislikes, temperament, coat texture and breed specifications should allow you to set up a schedule of regular grooming or bathing. I have found that if you make this experience a positive one they will keep on coming to you for their bathing needs. Bathing gives you the opportunity for a nice and warm massage which they will never forget for future endeavors. I have kept treats around just to let them know that they are doing so well of course, in moderation.

Since, most of our pets are ground level be sure to keep the areas free from objects that they can swallow, chew or tear apart. This is their area so be mindful of the things that are on the usually lower levels of your home. Act like there is a child in the house always, and this will ensure your pets safety. I am always checking around the house for items that are on their level and could potentially harm them.

Exercise is the most important part of a relationship with our dogs, even just up the block. When walking your dog leashes and collars should of proper fitting for your pet and secured correctly for the dog walk. Collars must be snug and you should be able to put one finger underneath but not too loose which will cause many unpleasant situations for the pet sitter, the owner and most importantly the pet. Make sure their identification tags are up-to-date and attached to their collars.

Playtime with a ball or Frisbee or whatever their favorite toy is should be mandatory for keeping them and you young at heart. Playing with the fly fishing rod with your kitties keeps their minds occupied and releases some energy. Try getting down on the floor with them if you have never done this before and you will be surprised at their reactions. They love this form of play. Bow down with your rump in the air like they do when they are in the play mode and they will surely go crazy with joy (For Dogs - never tried with cats). TLC time is important as well, as most pets love this attention. Our pets have such few requirements from us and enrich us beyond all forms of measurement.

In conclusion, all these ideas are from being with many different types of pets over the years and caring for them like they were my own. Just implementing some kind of scheduling will ensure some great and hopefully more time with our loved ones. I have always been a pet lover and will continue to provide all pet related services to my clients and their pets.

Mary Varricchio has been a professional pet sitter for over 8 years and an owner for over 30 years. I have taken care of animals that are furry, scaled and feathered and have loved every minute of my time with them. I am a member of Pet Sitters Association and to which I have insurance through. I have many Pescapades or pet stories to tell you which, some will inspire and some will make you sad and everything in between.

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Posted in: Pets Health