Monday, August 7, 2023

Tips for pet parents with full-time jobs .....

 Originally printed in Animal Wellness By Alex Haslam -January 11, 2019


Taking care of a dog when you have a full-time job can be challenging – but it’s not impossible! Here’s a few tips to help you juggle a career and a canine.

Pet ownership can be difficult, especially for full-time workers. Companion animals require an immense amount of care, and whether you’ve just adopted a dog or have had him for years, it’s important to adjust your lifestyle to accommodate his needs. If you’re a #dogpreneur, take a look at these helpful tips.

Help him get acclimated

If you just adopted a dog or puppy, it may take him a few weeks – or even months – to get used to his new space. This period is the most important for ensuring a smooth transition for you and your pet. If you can afford to, take time off work for the first little while to help him adjust.

Establish a routine

Pets thrive on consistency. Putting your pet on a regular feeding and exercise schedule is essential for helping him cope with your busy days. For younger dogs in particular, feeding time should be immediately followed by a walk or some time spent outside so they can relieve themselves. With repetition, patience, and consistency, he’ll soon learn not to “go” indoors, even if he’s alone for a few hours at a time.

Provide lots of exercise

A tired pet is a happy pet, and lots of exercise can bring out an animal’s best behavior. Take plenty of time before you leave for work to walk, run, and play with your pup so he’s all tuckered out when it’s time for you to leave.

Create a pet-friendly space

Your dog may get restless in your absence, and the last thing you want is to come home to a shredded couch. Keep your pet enclosed in a space where his natural curiosity (or destructive habits) won’t put him in danger. A moveable gate or an enclosed room can be a great way to give him space to move around without putting your décor at risk. If you can’t trust him in such an open space by himself, invest in a large crate.

Hire some backup

If you’re unable to pop home to relieve your furry friend every few hours, a dog sitter or dog walker can ensure he receives the care he needs. Hiring someone to check on him in the middle of the day provides a balance between your busy schedule and his needs – and helps ensure he’s getting the socialization he requires to thrive. Other tools like a smart security system with a two-way talk camera can help you keep tabs on and comfort your pet while you’re at work.

Ask to work from home

Can your job be done out of office? Even if it’s just one day a week, working remotely from the comfort of your own home allows you to be there for your canine companion while still fulfilling your professional duties. You might not be able to take him on long walks, but he’ll appreciate the regular potty breaks (and kisses).

Don’t neglect your pet!

No matter how you look at it, owning a dog is a lot of work. His temperament, age, and history will all affect his ability to be left alone for long periods of time, and you’ll need to be prepared for the extra work (and cost) that this might entail. If you feel that his happiness or health is at stake, take advantage of the many services available to busy pet parents, or take some much-needed time off! Your job is important, but so is your fur baby.

The Animal Rescue Site is a place where people can help provide food and care to millions of animals in need, both in the U.S. and around the world. In addition to sharing personal rescue stories, shopping for the cause, and signing petitions, visitors can take just a moment each day to click on a purple button to help animals. Visit The Animal Rescue Site and click today - it's free!

FYI: To find an animal in need of a home; to find an animal shelter near you, check out  https://www.petfinder.com

Remember, all types, ages, breeds, even purebreds are waiting to be adopted. 

Thanks for visiting my blog for the animals. It's always great to connect with another animal lover. If you and I don't speak up for them, who will? 


Coins That Count: 
Is your coin jar overflowing? Turn that loose change into cash that helps animals by donating to The HSUS at participating Coinstar machines nationwide. Where to go» Find a Kiosk near you...

     
                                             
Until next time….hug your animals. Tell them you love them. If you don’t have a pet, adopt one. Make adoption your first option when seeking a pet. Adopt. Don’t shop. Can’t adopt. Please consider fostering one. The animal will have the taste of home and the shelter will cover the expenses. Can’t foster? Make a donation or volunteer at your local shelter. Please, don’t hunt. Unless you’re starving down in a ditch somewhere, there is no logical reason to do so. Whatever you do, however you do it, please be a voice for the animals large and small. All it takes is one to make a difference, good or bad.
                                     
Together, you and I can make a difference in an animal's life.  I’m one for the animals. Are you? Thanks for visiting. Stay safe. Be strong. Be happy. Smile. Show compassion. Be nice to one another. Pass it onward. If you like what you see here, please consider signing up to become a follower. Please feel free to share this post with others.
    Regards,
    S.J. Francis
    In Shattered Lies: "Good and bad, it's All About Family."  Available now from Black Opal Books and for sale at on-line retailers and independent booksellers.
   “Some secrets should remain that way.” 
  My Black Opal Books Author Page:
                 My web page: http://www.sjfranciswriter.com
                                     Twitter: https://twitter.com/sjfrancis419
Image result for black animals need help
 Facebook fan page:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/SJ-Francis/480058115420325
                  My writing Blog: http://sjfranciswriter.blogspot.com
                                                     
          A Book Review 4 U: http://abookreview4u.blogspot.com
                  A Consumer's View: http://aconsumersview.blogspot.com
                 
Good Reads:       https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/33550975-s-j

And now for some legal stuff: Copyright 2023 by S.J. Francis. Opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, S. J. Francis and are meant to entertain, inform and enlighten, and intend to offend no one.
Make spare change make a difference for the wild. Join @CaringCent & purchases will be rounded & change 
donated: https://donate.caringcent.com/#/go/wildearthguardians
                                         
Remember: Animals don't have voices. We must be their voice. Always. Forever. Wherever. whenever. I'm one for the animals. Are you?  

Monday, July 10, 2023

What Temperature Is Too Hot To Walk A Dog? How to keep those little paws safe....

 Originally from Dodo.com:

What Temperature Is Too Hot To Walk A Dog?

How to keep those little paws safe 🐾

Dog is too hot to walk

Have you ever felt like it was just too hot outside to walk your dog?

To make sure you’re keeping your pet safe — and his paws free from burns or irritation — it’s important to know what temperature is too hot to walk a dog.

That's why we spoke to Dr. Jessica Romine, a veterinarian at BluePearl Pet Hospital in Southfield, Michigan, to get some answers and tips to make sure your walks are always safe — and fun — for you and your pup.

How to find out what temperature is too hot to walk a dog

According to Dr. Romine, there’s a simple test you can do to check if it’s too hot out to walk — and all you need is your hand.

“A good rule of thumb is to place your hand on the sidewalk or asphalt for 5 seconds; if it becomes uncomfortable to the touch, it is probably also uncomfortable for your dog to walk on,” Dr. Romine told The Dodo.

Signs your dog is uncomfortable

If you do need to take a walk on a hot day — or if it starts to heat up after you’ve already left home — keep a close eye on your pup.

“Dogs can suffer burns from very hot surfaces, usually in direct sunlight,” Dr. Romine said.

Signs to look out for include your dog starting to slow down or limp, or not wanting to keep walking.

If this happens, Dr. Romine recommends “checking their paw pads for tenderness, redness, or erosions and try[ing] to get them into the grass or at least shade.”

Tips for walking your dog in the heat

If you live in an area where hot concrete is unavoidable, you can try a paw wax to protect your pup’s paws. If you’d like to try one, Musher’s Secret Paw Wax is highly recommended by one of The Dodo’s editors, who uses it on her own pup.

Buy Musher's Secret Paw Wax on Amazon for $16

“If your dog tolerates them, they are a fine option,” Dr. Romine said about protective products, “but remember that prolonged contact can still cause damage, and dogs still need to be monitored for signs of overheating.”

So in general, try to stick to the grass or at least the shade on your summer walks — and going out in the morning or evenings, when most surfaces aren’t in direct sun, will be much more comfortable for your dog.

Tip: if it is too hot for you to walk on or touch, it is too hot for your pet to walk on.

need to try new options. Never hesitate to discuss your concerns with your veterinarian. They are a valuable resource to helping your dog gain a better quality of life. Finding what works for you and your pet is what matters most so that you both can have an improved quality of life together.

Thanks for visiting my blog for animals where I share tips, advice, info and more.

Regards, SJ Francis, writer, novelist, animal advocate, Disable Veteran, CKD, ADPKD sufferer....

The Animal Rescue Site is a place where people can help provide food and care to millions of animals in need, both in the U.S. and around the world. In addition to sharing personal rescue stories, shopping for the cause, and signing petitions, visitors can take just a moment each day to click on a purple button to help animals. Visit The Animal Rescue Site and click today - it's free!

FYI: To find an animal in need of a home; to find an animal shelter near you, check out  https://www.petfinder.com

Remember, all types, ages, breeds, even purebreds are waiting to be adopted. 

Thanks for visiting my blog for the animals. It's always great to connect with another animal lover. If you and I don't speak up for them, who will? 


Coins That Count: 
Is your coin jar overflowing? Turn that loose change into cash that helps animals by donating to The HSUS at participating Coinstar machines nationwide. Where to go» Find a Kiosk near you...

     
                                             
Until next time….hug your animals. Tell them you love them. If you don’t have a pet, adopt one. Make adoption your first option when seeking a pet. Adopt. Don’t shop. Can’t adopt. Please consider fostering one. The animal will have the taste of home and the shelter will cover the expenses. Can’t foster? Make a donation or volunteer at your local shelter. Please, don’t hunt. Unless you’re starving down in a ditch somewhere, there is no logical reason to do so. Whatever you do, however you do it, please be a voice for the animals large and small. All it takes is one to make a difference, good or bad.
                                     
Together, you and I can make a difference in an animal's life.  I’m one for the animals. Are you? Thanks for visiting. Stay safe. Be strong. Be happy. Smile. Show compassion. Be nice to one another. Pass it onward. If you like what you see here, please consider signing up to become a follower. Please feel free to share this post with others.
    Regards,
    S.J. Francis
    In Shattered Lies: "Good and bad, it's All About Family."  Available now from Black Opal Books and for sale at on-line retailers and independent booksellers.
   “Some secrets should remain that way.” 
  My Black Opal Books Author Page:
                 My web page: http://www.sjfranciswriter.com
                                     Twitter: https://twitter.com/sjfrancis419
Image result for black animals need help
 Facebook fan page:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/SJ-Francis/480058115420325
                  My writing Blog: http://sjfranciswriter.blogspot.com
                                                     
          A Book Review 4 U: http://abookreview4u.blogspot.com
                  A Consumer's View: http://aconsumersview.blogspot.com
                 
Good Reads:       https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/33550975-s-j

And now for some legal stuff: Copyright 2021 by S.J. Francis. Opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, S. J. Francis and are meant to entertain, inform and enlighten, and intend to offend no one.
Make spare change make a difference for the wild. Join @CaringCent & purchases will be rounded & change 
donated: https://donate.caringcent.com/#/go/wildearthguardians
                                         
Remember: Animals don't have voices. We must be their voice. Always. Forever. Wherever. whenever. I'm one for the animals. Are you?