Got your vaccine and itching to travel this spring break? Here are our top tips for a safe trip!

Stay Close

Although many of us may have the desire to start jet setting to faraway destinations, we recommend a staycation in Maryland or a surrounding state. There are many great places to visit in and around the DMV. Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather at Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland. For beach lovers, make a trip to the Eastern Shore to feel the sand between your toes! Although it may not be as exciting to stay local, it’s safer and cheaper!

Follow Regional COVID Advisories and Guidelines

Even if you or your family members have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s important to still follow guidelines pertaining to the area that you’re visiting. For most areas, this will mean wearing a mask in public and keeping your distance from others. Vaccinated individuals can still infect people if their cough or sneeze contains particles of the virus.

Use Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a great way to protect yourself in the event of last-minute cancellations or other potential financial losses that can occur while traveling. The best time to buy travel insurance is immediately after booking your travel plans to extend the window of coverage. Make sure to choose a plan that works best for you and read all documents carefully.

Schedule Your Pet With Pet and Home Care

Booked your getaway? Leave your pet care needs to us! Drop your dog off at our dog resort for their very own vacation, or schedule in-home visits for any of your pets. Visit our website petandhomecare.com/services or give us a call at (301) PET-CARE to learn more about our services including walks, overnight pet care, and house cleaning. And don’t worry if you have to cancel your trip, we only have a 12-hour cancelation window!

It’s Professional Pet Sitters Week! From March 7-13 we’re shining a light on the viability of pet sitting as a career and the importance of using professional pet care services.

This week, we’re celebrating by showing our appreciation for the talented and loyal pet sitters of Pet and Home Care. Check out these videos to learn more about our pawsome managers, resort staff, and sitters. To learn more about why you should always choose a professional pet sitter, click here!

Did you know that Pet and Home Care is lead by three women? It’s no coincidence that International Woman’s Day is during Professional Pet Sitter Week! Meet our fabulous managers!

 

Our Resort Team is ready to give your pup a safe & friendly place to stay! Whether it is playing fetch in the yard or celebrating holidays & birthdays with your pups – you can count on us. We love to give them the BEST experience. Meet our amazing resort staff!

 

Our pet sitters are top-notch and strive to exceed your expectations at every visit. Cats and dogs may be our bread and butter, but our sitters have so much experience with animals of all sizes and types. Meet our fantastic sitters!

 

 

When it comes to raising a cat, many owners disagree on whether to keep them inside or let them roam the outdoors. But what effects can this difference in lifestyle actually have on your furry friend’s health and wellbeing? Read more to find out how you can help your cat lead a long and enriched life!

Outdoor Dangers

It’s no surprise that the outdoors has many dangers to pets. Wild animals like snakes, coyotes, and raccoons can get into a fight with your pet and cause them serious injury or even kill them. Even prey animals like squirrels can cause injury to your pet if they decide to attack. Even in more spacious parts of Maryland, cars are a big concern when it comes to the safety of your pet. More than five million cats are struck by cars each year in the United States. Weather can also present dangers for outdoor cats as they may not be able to find their way home or find shelter from the extreme heat or cold. While many people show kindness to outdoor or stray cats, there are some who are extremely cruel and treat cats as pests. Overall, it is not a safe idea to keep pets outdoors unsupervised.

Health and Lifespan

On average, indoor cats can reach the age of seventeen, while outdoor cats usually live between two and five years. This is due in part to the aforementioned dangers of an outdoor lifestyle. In addition, indoor cat owners are more likely to detect and treat ailments before they become life-threatening. Outdoor cats are more likely to contract or develop feline leukemia virus, feline AIDS and other diseases.

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Finding a Balance

While an indoor lifestyle is much safer for your cat, it can lead to other problems in your furry friends’ life. Indoor cats can become bored or frustrated if not given enough stimulation in the house. They are also more likely to scratch furniture than their outdoor counterparts. This doesn’t mean you should let your cat roam unsupervised, but it’s worth considering some ways your cat can enjoy the outdoors in a safe way. Check out our blog on cat walking to learn more about letting your feline friend experience the outdoors.

Making the Best of Indoor Living

If your cat isn’t keen on going out, don’t force them! Playing with them can go a long way in preventing boredom that leads to harmful behaviors. Try out different toys (and catnip!) to see what your cat responds to best. Scratching posts are essential to prevent them from clawing up your furniture. Cats also need places to climb and hide. Perches near windows can offer your cat glimpses of birds and squirrels that can entertain them. Go above and beyond by putting a bird feeder right outside their window perch to keep them engaged for hours!

Although the outdoors can be a dangerous place for your cat to roam, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it in a safe and supervised way. Cats can also lead very enriched lives completely inside with a little help from their owners. If you have a cat that needs a little extra playtime or care when you are away, visit our website to learn more about in-home visits! We also offer walking services if you have a cat that is trained to go outdoors. Give us a call at (301) PET-CARE to learn more.

 

It’s no secret that many cats yearn to explore outside. But letting your feline friend roam unsupervised can be dangerous due to cars and wild animals. The best way for your kitty to have safe outdoor time is on a walk! Although much more commonplace and essential for their canine counterparts, walks can be just as enriching for cats! Here are a few things to consider if you want to begin training your cat to walk.

Cats’ Choice

Unlike dogs, cats don’t need to be walked. Think of it as more of an enriching activity. If your cat doesn’t express interest in going outside and hates the idea of walking or wearing a harness, don’t force it on them. Walks and outdoor time should only be for cats that want them. Excess energy, mischief-causing, and spending a lot of time at doors and windows are all indicators that your cat may desire some outdoor enrichment!

Gearing Up For Adventure

Cats should only be walked using a harness and leash. Collars can be squirmed out of easily and can cause strain on the neck. Make sure their harness fits snugly but if you can’t fit two fingers underneath it, it’s probably on too tight and you may need to loosen it slightly. Start slowly by fitting them with the harness around the house and rewarding them with a treat for wearing it. If they appear agitated or uncomfortable remove it. Remember, this is for your cat’s enjoyment!

Taking The Lead

When outside with your cat, make sure you let them take the lead. Pulling them will lead to stress and discomfort. Wait until they become more comfortable with the leash and harness as well as their outdoor surroundings before attempting to guide them. Although outdoor time is a great way to get important exercise for your pet, try not to think of walking your cat as a workout. If they just want to sit in the grass and watch the trees, let them! One of the best reasons to get your cat outdoors is because of the enrichment that an indoor-only lifestyle lacks. As long as your cat is enjoying themself in a safe way, your job is done!

Be Patient

Walking a cat is certainly not as natural as walking a dog. Dogs adapt quickly to leash training and most don’t mind wearing collars and harnesses. Make sure to be patient with your cat and take things slow, especially if they are more than a few years old. With time and a little positive reinforcement, they can learn to be great walkers.

How We Can Help

Pet and Home Care offers cat walking services! If you need help training your cat or already have a cat that enjoys being walked, we would love to meet them! Give us a call at (301)-PET-CARE or visit us at petandhomecare.com/services to hear more about how we can help enrich the life of your cat!

February is pet theft awareness month! This month we are encouraging all pet owners to take steps to ensure their pets’ security and give you peace of mind. Every year, two million pets are stolen in America. Implanting a microchip is the best way to keep track of your pet in the event that they get lost or stolen.

Getting Microchipped

You can get your pet microchipped at your local veterinarian. Chips are injected using a hypodermic needle, so no surgery or anesthesia is needed and the procedure is relatively painless for your animal. Microchips typically cost around $45.

How It Works

The information contained in a microchip is limited to an identification number that allows shelters or veterinarians to contact pet owners through a registration database. Microchips are not a GPS device and will not pinpoint your pets’ location. Shelters that receive lost pets use chip scanners to identify pets that have a chip implanted. The information is then used to reunite owners with their pets.

My Pet Is Already Chipped!

Great! It’s important to keep all information related to your pets’ chip updated with your current contact information. If it’s been a while since you’ve updated it, check to make sure all the information is current at your next vet visit.

On top of microchips, having a collar with contact information and rabies tags is essential especially for dogs. Chips can only be used at a vet or shelter, but dog tags can help anyone return a lost dog or cat by providing a phone number to call or a home address. Even with the utmost caution, accidents can still happen and dogs and cats can end up lost, stolen, or missing in any number of circumstances. Having preparations in place like tags and microchips is a great way to make sure your furry friend makes their way back home.

Senior pets often require more care and attention the older they get as they become prone to certain health problems. It’s very important to keep a close eye on your furry friends and know the best ways to help them in their golden years.

Common ailments in senior pets

Senior dogs and cats can face many age-related health issues including obesity, arthritis, vision & hearing loss. Some of these problems like obesity and joint issues related to arthritis can be prevented or treated by changing your pets’ diet. Although some of these ailments are hard to anticipate such as cancer or vision loss, it’s important to be aware of the kinds of issues your pet can face as they age.

Administering medication at home

Many senior dogs we care for at PHC take some form of medication. These can come in many forms like pills, supplements, powders, and injections. Depending on the type of medication, you’ll need to find a hassle-free way of administering them to your pet, especially if they need to take it every day. Pills and supplements can easily be masked in your pets’ food or by wrapping them in a treat. Make sure to read the instructions carefully so you always know how much to administer, how often, and whether there are timing factors to consider (i.e. before/after eating).

When to seek veterinary care

Senior dogs and cats need to be seen more often by the vet in order to detect any oncoming physical ailments they may start to develop. Early detection is imperative in getting the best treatment for your pet.

Keeping senior pets happy and healthy

Senior pets are often not as energetic as they were in their younger years but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to have fun with you! Going on walks, playing games, and socializing with other dogs can help them stay healthy and sharp as long as you don’t overdo it! It’s important to take into consideration your senior pet’s physical limitations when being active. Grooming your pet and brushing their teeth are a few of the best ways to keep your senior dog healthy. As your pet ages, they may not be able to groom themselves as thoroughly due to aching joints. Similarly, senior dogs and cats’ teeth become more sensitive and prone to infection the older they get. Hemp oil is a natural treatment that is becoming popular amongst pet owners to calm their pets’ nerves and relieve pain. Hemp oil can also have amazing benefits for dogs that suffer from allergies, cancer, glaucoma, separation anxiety, sundowners, seizures, and more. Consider adding it to your pet’s meals to help with a variety of common ailments and other types of inflammation-related pain. Need help choosing the perfect hemp oil, ask us!

How a pet care professional can help

Pet sitters can help you give your aging pet the extra care and attention they need. Pet and Home Care’s pet professionals are always available for help exercising your pet, administering medication, and giving lots of love and snuggles. We are here for you!

Give us a call at (301) PET – CARE to talk to our staff about how we can create a personalized care plan for your aging pet.

Love is in the air! Here are some creative ways to show your pet that you care about them this Valentine’s Day.

Sweet Treats!

Treat yourself and your pet to an extra goodie to show them just how sweet they are! Chocolate-covered strawberries are a quintessential Valentine’s sweet for us humans, but not so much for dogs. However, strawberries are a safe, dog-friendly treat that many pooches love! You could also dip a washed strawberry in some melted carob and refrigerate to set. Feel free to toss a non-chocolate covered berry to your pooch while you’re making them. As with all dog-friendly fruits, be sure to keep the portion size small as too much sweets can cause an upset stomach.

Dress in festive colors!

Dressing in red and pink is just as cute on animals as it is on humans! A festive ribbon or bandana can be just the little touch of festive color your pet needs. An adorable Valentine’s Day photoshoot is a MUST!

Surprise them with a gift!

Valentine’s Day may be the holiday of chocolate and flowers, but there is plenty of dog and cat-friendly indulgences your pet will adore! A special treat or massage will instantly show your pet how much you care. If your dog has been spending a little too much time stuck inside lately, try treating them to the gift of daycare! The Pet and Home Care Pet Resort is the perfect way to safely socialize your dog under the supervision of our pet care professionals.

From all of us at Pet and Home Care, happy Valentine’s Day! Need last-minute V-day daycare or boarding? Give us a call at (301) PET-CARE

Did you know that by age three most cats and dogs develop dental disease? Dental disease is a painful condition that occurs when bacteria, tartar, and plaque build-up beneath the gum line. Not only can this cause major chronic pain for your furry friend, but the bacteria can be absorbed into their bloodstream causing damage to vital organs. Staying on top of your pets’ dental care is one of the best ways to prevent pain and disease. Giving a little extra attention to your furbaby’s teeth will not only reduce bad breath but the potential of developing a life-altering disease. Here are some of our top tips for combating dental disease in your pets!

Talk to your vet

If your pet is already at least a few years old, talk to your vet about the possibility of dental disease. For a proper diagnosis, x-rays are essential for seeing plaque that may be invisible to the naked eye. If your pet is diagnosed with dental disease, ask your vet for a personalized plan. Veterinarians can also perform a dental cleaning that is not unlike one you would receive at the dentist.

Brush their teeth!

Although it might seem like a hassle, brushing your dogs’ teeth could potentially save them from years of pain, and save you from paying for expensive surgeries down the line. Dog toothbrushes and flavored toothpaste make brushing your pooch’s pearly whites a breeze! (Note: you should never use normal toothpaste when brushing your pets’ teeth as they can contain ingredients that are harmful to animals!)

Treats and toys

Here’s something you AND your dog will love! Many owners give dogs dental chews or toys that work like a toothbrush, mechanically scrubbing their teeth as they chew. These can not only work as a treat but a supplementary measure to ensure good dental health. Dental chews and toys aren’t a replacement for toothbrushing, but they’re great at reaching the back of the mouth where dogs do most of their chewing.

Other supplements

Dental water additives can act as a supplementary measure to making sure your dog’s mouth is staying clean throughout the day. Simply add a small amount to your pup’s water bowl for a little extra freshness! Additionally, mouth sprays can be sprayed directly onto their teeth. Think of it like dog mouthwash!

At Pet and Home Care, we will gladly accommodate any dental care needs that your pets may have during boarding, visits, or overnight visits. Does your dog frequent our pet resort? Try adding on weekly teeth cleaning for $15.00! We offer tooth brushing and other bathing services. Give us a call today at (301) PET – CARE or visit our website to learn more about our services!

As we prepare for more winter weather in the coming weeks, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards it could present for your furry friends! Follow these tips to ensure the safety of your pets this winter.

Salt safety

After a walk, make sure to wipe paws to prevent chemical burns. Booties are the best way to prevent exposure to chemicals and the cold. However, not every dog will be too keen on a cute pair of booties, so try rubbing petroleum jelly on their paws to protect against salt burns. If you salt your sidewalk or driveway, make sure to use one that’s pet friendly.

Outdoor cats and dogs

Make sure they have a way to get in and out of the house easily. Supervise your pet when outside and keep them inside as much as possible. Pets left outdoors in the winter can become too cold, and become disoriented and lost. If you need extra care during the winter months, walks and daycare are the best way to keep your pup active with safe outdoor time, supervised by our local pet care experts.

Dress your dog appropriately

Puppies, senior dogs, and sick dogs are more sensitive than others to cold temperatures. Make sure that if you have a puppy, senior dog or a pet with a compromised immune system stays in a warm, dry environment, otherwise, you may expose them to hypothermia, frostbite, or worse.

Skip the haircut!!

Dogs need their coats to stay warm in the winter so avoid major haircuts in favor of a small trim to prevent snow or ice from clinging to fur. Never shave your pet to the skin during the winter! If your pup is naturally on the less-than-fluffy side, consider opting for a dog coat or sweater to keep them warm and toasty.

Keep your dog hydrated

It’s important to make sure your dog always has access to water, but extra hydration is essential in winter for preventing dry skin. Try to give fewer baths, as frequent bathing can also contribute to drying out your dog’s skin. If you must bathe them, ask your vet or Pet and Home Care groomer about moisturizing shampoos.

Here’s our golden rule: If it’s too cold for you, it’s most likely too cold for them too! Be careful and conscious of your pets’ well-being during the winter months to prevent any hazards or injury. Please feel free to inquire about our many services including overnight pet sitting, dog training, and adventure walks. Contact us at (301) PET-CARE or visit our website at https://petandhomecare.com

We were recently featured in Potomac Living magazine!

Click HERE to check out our article!