Winter Ready: The Ultimate Guide to Pet Safety in Frederick & Montgomery Counties

Happy Dogs in Snow

Winter weather in Maryland can be unpredictable. One day it’s a mild 50 degrees, and the next, a nor’easter brings ice and snow to Frederick and Montgomery Counties.

At Pet and Home Care and The Green K9, we believe your pet care should be one thing you don’t have to worry about. Whether you are heading to the slopes or cozying up by the fire, here is how to ensure your pets stay warm, safe, and happy when the Maryland frost sets in.

1. Traveling? Use the “Pro-Pet” Prep List

If you have travel plans this season, a little extra preparation ensures your pet’s routine remains uninterrupted, even if a storm hits while you’re away.

  • The Two-Week Buffer: Running out of pet food during a blizzard is a major stressor. We recommend having a two-week backup supply of food, treats, and medications to avoid emergency trips on icy roads.
  • The “Dual Access” Rule: Smart locks are convenient until the power goes out or the batteries freeze. To ensure we can always reach your pets, we require a physical key backup (like a lockbox) in addition to digital codes.
  • The Garage Door Trap: Remember that garage doors do not work during power outages. Please ensure we have a secondary entry point.
  • Local Emergency Contacts: Identify a nearby neighbor who can serve as an emergency contact. If road conditions briefly prevent our team from reaching your home, a neighbor with a spare key is the best “Plan B.”

2. Our “Safe Arrival Guarantee”

Travel delays are common in winter, but they shouldn’t cost you your peace of mind. With our Safe Arrival Guarantee, if your flight is delayed or your return home changes unexpectedly, we will automatically extend your pet’s care until you are through the front door. Just notify us of your updated itinerary, and we’ll handle the rest—no last-minute fees, no stress.

3. How We Operate in Inclement Weather

To keep our team and your pets safe during extreme Maryland winters, we follow these specialized guideline’s:

  • Dog Walking Below freezing, we transition to “Quick Potty & Play.” We’ll do a fast bathroom break outside, then spend the remainder of the visit playing and snuggling indoors.
  • Grooming & Shop Store hours may be modified. If we need to reschedule your grooming visit due to road conditions, we’ll call you immediately to priority-book a new time.
  • Cancellations We waive our 24-hour cancellation policy when road conditions are dangerous.

4. Essential Home Safety Tips for Pet Owners

Help us keep your home and your pets safe by checking these off your list:

  • Winter Gear: Please leave a towel near the door and a jacket or sweater out for your pups.
  • Salt & Shovel: Please keep pathways and steps clear of ice. Use pet-safe ice melt (look for “salt-free” labels) to protect your pup’s sensitive paw pads.
  • Utility Knowledge: Let us know where your water shut-off valve is located in case of frozen pipes while you are away.

We’re Here to Help You Weather the Storm

Our goal is to make sure your pets feel zero stress, no matter what the thermometer says. From the historic streets of Frederick to the neighborhoods of Potomac, we are your partner in winter pet wellness.

Stay warm, and thank you for trusting us with your furry family members!

Ready to Book Your Winter Care?

(301) PET-CARE or Visit Our Online Portal to update your emergency contact info.

Frederick, MD Named #1 City for Dog Lovers in the USA!

It’s official: the secret is out! Frederick, Maryland has been crowned the #1 City for Dog Lovers in the United States for 2026. According to recent data from LawnStarter and reported by The Frederick News Post, our hometown beat out 500 cities to take the top spot.

At Pet and Home Care and The Green K9, we’ve always known that Frederick is a world-class destination for pets. With our headquarters in Urbana and our deep roots in the Frederick community, we are thrilled to celebrate this win with the neighbors and pups we serve every day.

Why Frederick is the Best Place for Dogs

The study ranked cities based on “Community Factors” and “Pet Care Access.” Frederick dominated because of our abundance of dog-friendly parks, top-rated Frederick pet grooming services, and high density of dedicated dog walkers in Frederick, MD.

But what truly makes us #1 are the local icons leading the way:

  • Tootsie & Dog Friendly Frederick: Tootsie is the ultimate local guide, highlighting the best dog-friendly places in Frederick and pet-welcoming events.

  • Ginger & Ginger’s Closet: Ginger isn’t just a stylish pup; she’s a philanthropist raising money for local animal shelters. It’s this community heart that put Frederick at the top of the list!

Your Top-Rated Pet Care in the Nation’s #1 Dog City

As the premier provider of pet sitting and dog walking in Frederick, Pet and Home Care is dedicated to maintaining our city’s gold-medal status. Whether you need a midday walk near Baker Park or full-service dog grooming at The Green K9, we provide the award-winning care your “top-ranked” pup deserves.

Ready to treat your dog like a champion? Click here to book a service with Pet And Home Care or visit us at The Green K9 in Urbana for the best treats and grooming in Frederick!

Adopted a Dog in Frederick or Montgomery County? Claim Your Free New Pet Bundle

dog treats

From Rescue to Royalty: Our Whole-Pet Approach to Welcoming Your New Dog Home

Bringing home a new dog is a life-changing event. Whether you’ve just signed adoption papers with K9 Rescue (Lonely Hearts), Double Dog Dare Rescue, or PetConnect Rescue, you are embarking on a beautiful journey of companionship.

At The Green K9 in Urbana, we believe a healthy start leads to a happy life. Just off 270, we are conveniently located to support pet parents in Urbana, Frederick, Adamstown, Clarksburg, Ijamsville, Monrovia, New Market, and Germantown. To celebrate your new addition, we offer a Free Adoption Bundle through our Astro Loyalty program and a philosophy we call the Whole-Pet Approach to Wellness.

What is the “Whole-Pet Approach”?

Unlike traditional pet care that only addresses one need at a time, our Whole-Pet Approach considers your pet’s complete lifestyle from tip to tail. From their physical health, emotional happiness, and even behavioral balance.

  • Nourishment: High-quality food is the foundation.

  • Grooming: Keeping coats clean and nails trimmed for health, not just looks.

  • Enrichment: Mental stimulation to prevent anxiety in a new home.

  • Routine: Consistent care to help your rescue feel safe.

By combining the premium retail products at The Green K9 with the professional services of Pet and Home Care, we provide a seamless circle of support for your new pet.

Claim Your Free “New Pet Adoption Bundle”

We’ve made our adoption program as simple as possible for busy new pet parents:

  • Free to Join: Signing up for our Astro Loyalty program is 100% free and helps you save money long-term with “Buy 12, Get 1 Free” rewards. Sign up within 60 days (two months) of your adoption date.

  • Build Your Own Bundle: You can choose one free item per category (Kibble, Wet Food, and Treats/Supplements, poop bag holder) to complete your custom bundle.

Note: We’ll just need your new pet’s name, the name of the 501(c)(3) rescue, and your adoption date to get you started.

Expert Nutrition: Our Favorite Brands for New Adopters

A new environment can be stressful for a dog’s system. We’ve curated a selection of brands that excel at supporting a rescue dog’s unique needs:

  • NutriSource: Our #1 recommendation for “shelter belly.” Their Good 4 Life system includes prebiotics and probiotics to ensure a smooth transition to their new home.

  • Open Farm: For the health-conscious Frederick family, Open Farm offers ethically sourced, transparent nutrition. Their RawMix is a local favorite, combining high-protein kibble with freeze-dried raw chunks.

  • The Honest Kitchen: Human-grade quality that is incredibly easy to digest—perfect for picky eaters or dogs with sensitive systems.

  • My Perfect Pet: Gently cooked, fresh-frozen food. Their “Buckaroo” blend is specifically designed to give puppies the extra nutrients they need to grow.

Visit Us Today for Tip to Tail Care

Your journey doesn’t end with a free bag of food. As your pet grows, we are here to support every stage of their life with:

Stop by our store at 3340 Galena Dr., Suite 106, Frederick, MD (Urbana) to meet our team. Let us help you start your journey with a Whole-Pet Approach!

Contact | Explore Our Services

Astro Adoption Program

Set It and Forget It: Consistent Care, Unwavering Reliability for Your Furry Friend!

Life gets busy, and remembering to book your dog’s weekly walk can easily slip your mind.

At Pet and Home Care, we understand that your pet’s routine is crucial for their well-being, and so is your peace of mind! That’s why we’re thrilled to remind reintroduce our “Set It and Forget It” weekly walks and recurring pet care services!

Imagine a world where your pet’s needs are consistently met, week after week, without you lifting a finger after the initial setup. That’s exactly what our “Set It and Forget It” program delivers.

How Does It Work? It’s as Easy as 1-2-3:

Set Your Schedule: Simply contact us via phone or message with your desired recurring days, preferred time of visit, and the length of each visit. Whether it’s daily dog walks, mid-day medication administration, a weekly playdate, regular daycare, or essential socialization, we’ll create a customized schedule that perfectly fits your pet’s needs.

We Do the Rest: Once your schedule is set, consider it done! We’ll consistently be there on the days you’ve selected, without you ever having to remember to book each week. No more scrambling for last-minute appointments or worrying if your pet will miss their routine.

Sit Back and Relax: With your “Set It and Forget It” plan in place, you can truly unwind, knowing that we have your tail covered!

The Benefits You’ll Love:

Consistent Care: Your pet thrives on routine. Our program ensures they receive the consistent care they need for their physical and mental health, from regular exercise to timely medication.

Unwavering Reliability: We pride ourselves on being there when you need us. Once your schedule is set, you can count on our dedicated team to arrive as planned, every single time.

Ultimate Convenience: Say goodbye to the hassle of weekly booking requests. Our “Set It and Forget It” approach saves you time and mental energy, freeing you up to focus on other priorities.

Flexibility When You Need It: Life happens, and we get that. If you need to adjust a week, simply let us know, and we’ll happily accommodate your changes.

Priority Booking for Add-Ons: Need an extra walk, a last-minute pet sit, or an impromptu daycare session? As a “Set It and Forget It” client, you’ll receive priority booking for any additional services you might require.

Simplified Billing: Instead of being billed per booking request, you’ll receive one easy-to-understand invoice at the end of every two weeks. This streamlined billing process makes it simple to plan and manage your pet care expenses.

Ready to Experience the Freedom of “Set It and Forget It”?

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind and your pet the gift of consistent, loving care. Call or message us today to set up your recurring schedule. We’re excited to partner with you to ensure your furry family member is happy, healthy, and perfectly cared for, every single week.

We have your tail covered!

Before the Fireworks Start, Do THIS for Your Dog

For most of us, the 4th of July means cookouts, fireworks, and summertime fun. But for our dogs, it can be one of the most stressful—and dangerous—days of the year.

According to PetAmberAlert.com, July 4th consistently ranks as the #1 day for dogs to escape, largely due to the anxiety caused by loud fireworks.

Fortunately, a little preparation goes a long way in helping your pup stay safe and comfortable during the holiday weekend. Here are a few proven strategies you can use:

1. Introduce Calming Support Early

One of the most effective tools for managing your dog’s fireworks anxiety is calming supplements, like pet CBD. Administering a calming product about 30 minutes before fireworks begin can help ease your dog’s stress response. Even better: start a few days to a week before the holiday so your dog becomes accustomed to it. Consistency is key, especially when you know fireworks may last multiple nights over the weekend.

Looking for a trusted option? You can purchase Pleasant Pet CBD in-store or online at The Green K9

2. Keep Them in a Secure, Comfortable Space

Create a safe zone for your dog during peak fireworks hours. This could be a quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, and low lighting. Play calming music or white noise to help mask the sounds of fireworks. Make sure doors, windows, and gates are securely closed so there’s no chance for accidental escapes.

3. Double-Check ID Tags and Microchip Info

Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen. Before the holiday weekend, ensure your dog’s ID tags are current with your contact information, and verify that their microchip details are up to date. This simple step dramatically improves the chances of a safe return if your dog does get loose.

If you’re microchip-curious, here’s an FAQ from the American Veterinary Medical Association

4. Stick to Your Routine

Try to keep your dog on a consistent schedule for meals, walks, playtime, and potty breaks. A predictable routine provides stability and can reduce overall anxiety during a potentially stressful weekend.

With a little foresight, you can turn an overwhelming holiday into a peaceful one for your pup.

Need help picking the right calming support? Stop by The Green K9 and let our team guide you to the best products to keep your pet safe, happy, and calm all weekend long.

Pet Grooming 101: Help Your Pup Look and Feel Great

Keeping your pet clean and well-groomed is essential for their overall health and happiness. At Pet and Home Care, we offer expert grooming, self-wash stations, and premium products to make pet care easy and stress-free. Here’s how to get the most out of your grooming routine—whether you DIY or leave it to the pros.

🧽 Grooming Tips for a Happy Pet Experience

Simple best practices can make grooming enjoyable—instead of stressful—for your pup:

  • Regular Routine:
    • Groom consistently to help your pet get comfortable with baths, brushing, and nail trims.
    • Wondering how often?
        • Long-haired breeds: Every 4–6 weeks.
        • Short-haired breeds: Every 6–8 weeks.
        • Nail trims: Monthly for most pets.
    • ✅ Pro Grooming Tip: Experienced groomers are always in high demand, especially during peak seasons. Book your next two grooming sessions at once to reduce wait times and last-minute stress. 👉 Schedule your grooming appointments now →
    • ✅ Self-Wash Tip: Prefer to bathe your pet yourself? Our fully-equipped self-wash stations are open daily. Schedule a weekday for the most availability. 👉 Reserve your self-wash spot →
  • Gentle Handling:
    • Stay calm and patient. Use praise and treats to reinforce a positive experience.
  • Check Water Temperature:
    • Use lukewarm water—not too hot or cold—for a comfortable bath.
  • Brush Before Bathing:
    • Brushing first helps detangle and allows shampoo to work more effectively.
  • Mind Sensitive Areas:
    • Take extra care around ears, eyes, paws, and belly.
  • Dry Thoroughly:
    • Pat gently and dry thoroughly, especially in ears and paws, to avoid skin irritation or infections.
  • Monitor Nails and Ears:
    • Regularly check for buildup, odor, or discomfort.

✅ Pro Tip: Check out the ASPCA grooming guide for more breed-specific tips.

💈 Why Professional Grooming Matters

Professional grooming does more than improve your pet’s appearance—it supports their overall well-being:

  • Early detection of skin issues, parasites, or health concerns
  • Proper coat maintenance and shedding control
  • Cleaner, healthier home environment

👉Meet our expert groomers and see why clients trust us →

✨Keep Your Pet Looking & Feeling Their Best!✨

Whether you’re booking a spa day with our groomers, using our self-wash stations, or shopping for grooming products, we’ve got your pet covered from tip to tail!

👉 Book Your Grooming or Self-Wash Session Today!

Summer Pet Sitting Tips: Peace of Mind for You and Your Pets

Summer is here, and vacation plans are ramping up! While you’re dreaming about sandy beaches or mountain retreats, don’t forget your furry family members. Planning ahead helps keep pets happy, healthy, and calm while you’re away. Here’s how to prep your pet sitter and address common concerns like separation anxiety.

Book Early—Summer Spots Fill Up Fast!

Summertime means busy schedules for professional pet sitters. Booking early ensures you secure the care your pet needs and gives you peace of mind.

  • Tip: Confirm pet sitting availability as soon as your vacation dates are set.

  • Bonus: Professional pet sitters maintain routines, reducing stress for your pet compared to boarding.

✅ Book your summer pet care today →

Clearly Communicate Your Pet’s Needs

Detailed instructions help your pet sitter provide seamless, customized care. Be thorough to set everyone up for success.

Include:

  • Feeding schedules and dietary requirements.
  • Medication instructions (with doses clearly marked).
  • Your pet’s favorite activities and routines.

  • Emergency contacts and veterinary details.

✅ Pro tip: Arrange a meet-and-greet beforehand to go through your pet’s routine in person.

Manage Pet Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety peaks during extended absences, especially if routines are disrupted. Here’s how to help your pet feel secure while you’re away:

  • Gradual Adjustments: Practice brief separations in advance, slowly increasing your time away from home.
  • Consistency Matters: Keeping meal, play, and sleep times consistent significantly eases anxiety.
  • Comfort Items: Leave behind familiar scents (like a worn shirt) or favorite toys for comfort.

✅ Helpful hint: Consider calming aids such as pet-safe aromatherapy, pet CBD, or anxiety wraps to soothe nerves.

Enrich Their Days

Mental stimulation is key to combating boredom and anxiety while you’re gone. Equip your sitter with ideas and supplies:

  • Interactive toys and puzzle feeders.
  • Safe chew toys or frozen treats for hot days.
  • Background noise—soft music, nature sounds, or pet-friendly TV.

✅ Bonus Resource: Check out these easy DIY enrichment activities from Carroll County Veterinary Clinic.

Stay Connected From Afar

Professional pet care services often offer regular updates to ease your mind while traveling. Daily check-ins, including photos or short videos, assure you that your pets are thriving—even while you relax poolside.

✅ Client Favorite: Our Pet Care Pros send daily updates so you never miss a wag or purr.

Get Your Home Vacation-Ready

Beyond pet care, consider additional home services:

  • Cleaning
  • Mail and package collection
  • Plant watering
  • Security checks for doors and windows

✅ Learn more about our complete home care offerings →

Return Home to Happy Pets

With proper planning and clear communication, you’ll return home to happy, calm pets.

Ready to Plan Your Pet’s Summer Stay-cation?
Pet and Home Care is here to help. Contact us now and ensure your pet enjoys summer vacation as much as you do.

👉 Schedule Your Summer Pet Sitting Today!

Easy Enrichment Activities Every Dog Owner Should Try

Keeping your dog happy and healthy goes beyond daily walks and feeding time. Dogs are intelligent, curious animals that crave mental stimulation and interactive play. Without it, boredom and anxiety can creep in, leading to unwanted behaviors.

Enrichment activities provide essential mental and physical stimulation, helping your dog stay sharp, burn energy, and feel emotionally satisfied. The good news? You don’t need fancy tools or tons of time. These simple enrichment ideas are easy to implement and fun for both of you.

🧠 Brain-Boosting Toys

Interactive toys are one of the easiest ways to challenge your dog’s mind while keeping them occupied. Whether your pup is home alone or just needs something to do, these options are perfect for solo play:

  • Puzzle toys that require sniffing, sliding, or nudging to uncover treats

  • Treat-dispensing balls that reward movement with snacks

  • Chew toys that satisfy natural urges while keeping teeth healthy

👉 Check out our favorite enrichment toys here

Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh and exciting!

🐾 Sensory Games & Play

Dogs love using their noses, ears, and paws to explore the world—and you can harness that for play that’s both fun and fulfilling:

  • Scent games: Hide treats around the house or yard and encourage your pup to “find it”

  • Hide-and-seek: Hide yourself or their favorite toy for a fun twist on bonding

  • Playdates: Social play with other dogs encourages communication and drains energy

  • Training sessions: Practicing basic commands or learning new tricks gives your dog a sense of purpose and accomplishment

👉 Explore our dog daycare services with scent games and structured play

🍽️ Food-Based Enrichment

Turn mealtime into a fun challenge with food-based enrichment:

  • Lick mats: Spread peanut butter, yogurt, or wet food for a soothing, slow-feeding experience

  • Kibble scavenger hunts: Hide small piles of kibble throughout your home for your dog to discover

  • Treat puzzles or slow feeders: These make your dog work for their food, slowing down fast eaters and encouraging problem-solving

👉 Browse our top enrichment feeders and lick mats

Not only do these tools help mentally stimulate your pup, but they can also improve digestion and reduce anxiety.

🐶 Make Enrichment a Daily Habit

The best enrichment routines are simple, consistent, and varied. Even 10–15 minutes a day can make a big difference in your dog’s mood and behavior. Start small and mix things up to keep your dog engaged.

At Pet and Home Care, we offer personalized enrichment during daycare and pet sitting visits—from scent games to one-on-one playtime.

👉 Learn more about our enrichment services and care plans

A happy, healthy dog is an enriched one—and we’re here to make that easy for you

What Is the Whole-Pet Approach to Wellness—and Why Does It Matter?

Your pet isn’t just a pet—they’re family. And just like any loved one, their well-being depends on more than just the basics. That’s why at Pet and Home Care, we embrace a whole-pet approach to wellness, designed to help your pet thrive physically, emotionally, and behaviorally—whether you’re home or away.

🌿 What Does “Whole-Pet Wellness” Really Mean?

Unlike traditional pet care that may only address one need at a time—like feeding or walking—a whole-pet approach considers your pet’s complete lifestyle. We focus on their health, happiness, comfort, and consistency across five key areas:

  1. Nourishment
    High-quality food tailored to your pet’s age, breed, and health needs is the foundation of lifelong wellness. Visit The Green K9 in-store or online to learn more.

  2. Grooming
    Clean coats, trimmed nails, and healthy skin go a long way. Our professional pet grooming services aren’t just for appearances—they promote hygiene, prevent issues, and provide comfort.

  3. Enrichment
    Mental and physical stimulation helps prevent boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. Playtime, social interactions, and even puzzle toys all contribute to a more balanced pet.

  4. Routine & Structure
    Pets thrive on predictability. That’s why we offer in-home pet care with regular visits, feeding schedules, and “Like You’re There” companionship to reduce stress when you’re away.

  5. Safe, Loving Environment
    Whether it’s at home or in our facility, a calm and supportive setting is essential. Our caregivers treat your pets like their own—because we know what that bond means.

🧠 Why It Matters—For Pets and Pet Parents

When pets are cared for holistically, everyone benefits:

  • Fewer vet visits and emergency calls

  • Better behavior and less stress

  • Stronger physical health and mental engagement

  • Peace of mind for you, knowing your pet’s needs are fully met

We’ve seen it firsthand in the thousands of pets we’ve cared for over the past 25 years. When a pet’s whole self is supported, their joy is undeniable—and so is yours.

🛠️ How We Put It Into Practice

At Pet and Home Care, we don’t just talk about wellness—we make it easy to live it. Every service we offer supports one (or more) of the core pillars of whole-pet health:

Whether you’re looking for day-to-day help or want to build a more consistent care plan, we’re here to support you and your pet at every stage.

✅ How to Start a Whole-Pet Routine at Home

Even small steps make a big difference. Here are a few ways to bring whole-pet wellness into your daily routine:

  • Set consistent meal and potty times

  • Mix in enrichment toys or short training games

  • Book regular walks or play sessions to keep them moving

  • Schedule grooming before it becomes urgent

  • Keep an eye on behavior—your pet may be showing you what they need

Want help tailoring a plan that fits your lifestyle? That’s what we’re here for.

💬 Ready to Upgrade Their Routine?

A whole-pet approach to wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifestyle shift that creates a happier, healthier home for everyone involved. Whether you need a one-time service or a full care plan, Pet and Home Care is ready to help.

Let’s create something that works for both of you. Register your pet today and experience what whole-pet wellness really feels like.

Shop Local and Save with Astro Loyalty at The Green K9

Let’s face it—pet care can add up. Between food, treats, grooming, and all the fun extras, keeping your furry friend happy and healthy is a big commitment. And with rising costs, many of us are watching our budgets more closely than ever. 

At The Green K9, we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise on quality to stay within your budget. That’s why we’re proud to offer the Astro Loyalty Program—a simple, free way to help you save on the essentials your pet loves most.

Buy More, Save More on Pet Food

Food rewards are one of the biggest perks of the program. Through Astro, every 12 bags of pet food you purchase earns you a FREE bag—whether you’re buying kibble, raw, or freeze-dried. That’s like getting a whole month of premium pet food for free! It’s an easy way to stretch your budget without cutting corners on your pet’s nutrition. 💚

Exclusive Monthly Specials Just for Members

Each month, Astro Loyalty members unlock new storewide specials on everyday items like treats, toys, supplements, and more. These aren’t your average discounts—we’re talking up to 20% off on popular products your pet already uses. For example, ⭐ this month’s member special is 20% off all-natural treats ⭐—perfect for training or just because.

Earn Points Every Time You Shop

In addition to monthly deals and food rewards, every purchase you make earns loyalty points that can be redeemed for even more savings down the road. It’s like getting rewarded just for being an awesome pet parent. As a member, you’ll also get fun extras like birthday treats for your pet and early access to new products and sales.

Joining Is Easy (and Free!)

🛍️Signing up for Astro Loyalty takes just a minute at checkout —and our team is happy to walk you through it. Once you’re in, the savings start right away.

Start Saving Today

The Astro Loyalty Program is our way of saying thank you for shopping local and choosing quality products for your pet. Join today and discover just how rewarding it can be to save on the things that matter most.