How to Prep for Your Dog Sitter’s Arrival

Dog sitter

At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we know how important it is to make sure your dog is well-cared for while you’re away, whether you're traveling for work or taking a much-needed vacation. One of the key components to a successful pet-sitting experience is proper preparation. By setting things up in advance, you can ensure that your dog’s sitter feels confident and comfortable in your home, and that your dog receives the best care possible.

Here are some essential steps to help you prep for your dog sitter’s arrival and ensure a smooth, stress-free experience for both your dog and your sitter.

1. Schedule Dog Walks With Your Dog Sitter

One of the most important things we recommend is getting to know your dog walker before the sitting begins. Even if you’re booking a sitter for a one-time visit, it's essential to schedule at least three walks with your walker beforehand. This not only ensures that your dog and the walker get along, but it also allows you to check the walker’s reliability. Unfortunately, we often receive calls from clients who had a walker cancel last minute, leaving their pets stranded.

At Trails and Tails, we only offer sitting services to clients who we already walk regularly, but even if you're not one of our regular walking clients, it's always best to give yourself peace of mind by scheduling a few walks in advance. This way, you can make sure your dog feels comfortable with the walker and that the walker is dependable.

2. Prepare Questions for the Meet-and-Greet

If you’re doing a meet-and-greet with your dog sitter, be sure to prepare some questions beforehand to ensure they’re a good fit for your pet and your home. Some key questions you might want to ask include:

• How do you handle emergency situations, like a dog getting injured or feeling ill?

• What is your approach to dog behavior and training?

• Are you comfortable with administering medications if needed?

• How do you handle situations where a dog becomes anxious or reactive?

By asking these questions, you’ll get a good sense of whether the sitter has the right experience and approach for your dog’s needs. If your dog has special quirks or medical requirements, be sure to mention those as well.

3. Provide Detailed Instructions (If There’s No Sitting Form)

Some dog walking companies, including Trails and Tails, may provide a sitting form to make the process easier, but many do not. If a form is available, it’s always helpful to fill it out for your sitter’s convenience. But even if no form is provided, we recommend creating a simple, detailed sheet with instructions for your dog sitter.

Make sure to include:

• Feeding instructions: Be specific about your dog’s food, portion size, and feeding schedule.

• Medications: Clearly note any medications your dog needs, including the dosage and when it should be given.

• Location of key supplies: Where can the walker find your dog’s food, leashes, and toys?

• Location of trash cans: Let the sitter know where the dumpster is and when trash day is.

• Wi-Fi information: Don’t forget to include your Wi-Fi network name and password for your sitter to use if necessary.

Clear, comprehensive instructions will help your sitter care for your dog just as you would, and it will reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings.

4. Notify Your Walker About Puppy Cams

If you have a puppy cam or security camera set up in your home, make sure to inform your dog sitter in advance. This is especially important in Seattle, as different states have varying laws about recording people. At Trails and Tails, we kindly ask that you turn off your puppy cam between 6 PM and 9 AM to allow your sitter to feel comfortable in your home. While you might just want to keep an eye on your pup, it’s important to remember that your sitter is essentially spending their time with your dog in your home, and being under constant observation can make them feel uneasy.

Letting your sitter know about any cameras in advance shows respect for their privacy, ensuring a more comfortable and trusting relationship.

5. Be Specific About Plant Care

If you’d like your dog sitter to water your plants while you’re away, be very specific about which plants need attention and when. Not all dog walkers are plant experts, and some may accidentally over-water or neglect certain plants. By providing clear instructions, you can prevent this from happening and ensure your plants stay healthy while your dog is getting the best care.

6. Set the AC/Heater to a Neutral Setting

If your home’s temperature control system is complicated, be sure to set your AC or heater to a neutral setting that your sitter can easily manage. If the controls are tricky or unusual, leave instructions so your sitter knows how to adjust the temperature. Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature for both your dog and the sitter is essential, and it’s one less thing for them to worry about while you’re gone.

7. Leave a Spare Key in Case of Emergencies

It’s always a good idea to leave a spare key for your dog sitter, just in case they get locked out or lose their key. You can either leave it in a lockbox or give it to a trusted friend. Not only will this ensure that the sitter can still access your home, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that there’s a backup plan in place. Emergencies happen, and being prepared is key to a smooth pet-sitting experience.

Conclusion: Preparation Is Key for a Successful Dog Sitting Experience

By taking the time to prepare for your dog sitter’s arrival, you can ensure that your dog’s sitting experience goes smoothly, and that your sitter feels comfortable in your home. From scheduling walks to providing clear instructions and informing your sitter about security cameras, a little preparation can go a long way.

At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your furry friend, whether it’s through regular walks or sitting services. If you’re looking for a trustworthy, experienced dog walker for your next trip, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to keep your dog happy, healthy, and safe while you’re away!

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So you got a puppy...!

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with challenges. Training your puppy early on will help them grow into a well-mannered and happy companion. At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we love helping dogs get the exercise and socialization they need, but we are not professional trainers. We highly recommend enrolling your puppy in a puppy training class to set them up for success! Below, we’ve put together some essential training tips to help you and your pup start off on the right paw.

1. Start Socialization Early (But Safely!)

Socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted dog. Introducing your puppy to new experiences, people, and other dogs in a safe and controlled environment will help them develop good “doggy manners.” However, it’s crucial to consult your vet before exposing your puppy to other dogs or public spaces, especially before they’re fully vaccinated. Look for safe socialization options like puppy playdates with vaccinated dogs or controlled puppy socialization classes.

2. Establish a Routine for Potty Training

House training requires patience and consistency. Puppies have small bladders and need frequent potty breaks, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Puppy pads can be a helpful tool in the beginning, but be mindful not to let your dog become reliant on them. Regular outdoor potty breaks will help reinforce good habits and prevent accidents in the house. Remember to praise your puppy when they go potty in the right spot!

3. Take Frequent Walks

Daily walks help puppies burn energy, explore the world, and learn proper leash manners. Plus, regular potty breaks outside will reinforce house training. Keep walks short and positive at first, gradually increasing distance as your pup grows. If you need help making sure your puppy gets enough exercise, our team at Trails and Tails Dog Walking is here to assist!

4. Get Your Puppy Comfortable with Handling

In cities like Seattle, rain is inevitable! We highly encourage getting your puppy used to having their paws wiped, even on dry days. This simple habit will make things much easier when the wet weather arrives. Additionally, practice gently handling their ears, paws, and mouth to prepare them for future vet visits and grooming sessions.

5. Enroll in a Puppy Training Class

We can’t emphasize this enough—puppy training classes are one of the best investments you can make in your dog’s future. These classes teach important skills like basic commands, leash walking, and socialization while strengthening your bond with your pup. Plus, professional trainers can offer personalized guidance tailored to your dog’s needs.

6. Be Patient and Consistent

Training takes time, and every puppy learns at their own pace. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praise, and playtime to encourage good behavior. Avoid punishment-based training, as this can create fear and confusion. Instead, focus on setting clear expectations and rewarding progress.

Final Thoughts

Raising a well-trained puppy requires patience, consistency, and a lot of love. By prioritizing safe socialization, regular walks, and structured training, you’ll set your furry friend up for a lifetime of good behavior. If you ever need help ensuring your puppy gets enough exercise and social interaction, Trails and Tails Dog Walking is happy to help!

Disclaimer: While we love working with dogs, we are not professional trainers. For expert training advice, we recommend consulting a certified dog trainer or attending a puppy training class.

Arthritic Dogs: Tips from a Dog Walker

Cacapoo dog walk

As a dog walker serving Seattle, we understand how important it is to ensure that your furry friends stay healthy and comfortable, especially when dealing with conditions like arthritis. Just like people, dogs can develop arthritis, and it can make their daily walks more challenging. However, with the right care and approach, your dog can still enjoy their walks while minimizing discomfort.

At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we specialize in providing customized care for dogs with arthritis, helping them stay active and pain-free. Here are some key tips on how to care for and walk a dog with arthritis, so you can keep your pup happy and healthy!

Understanding Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that affects a dog's joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It's most common in older dogs but can also affect younger dogs, especially those with joint injuries or certain breeds prone to arthritis. Common symptoms include limping, difficulty getting up or lying down, reluctance to walk or climb stairs, and a noticeable decrease in activity levels.

In Seattle, where the weather can sometimes be damp and chilly, arthritis flare-ups may be more frequent, especially in senior dogs. While you may not be able to cure arthritis, there are many ways to manage it effectively and improve your dog’s quality of life.

1. Consult Your Veterinarian for a Diagnosis and Treatment Plan - this is the advice of a dog walker

The first step in caring for a dog with arthritis is seeking advice from your veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination, confirm whether arthritis is the issue, and suggest a treatment plan that works best for your dog. Treatment options may include medications to manage pain and inflammation, joint supplements like glucosamine, and weight management to ease the pressure on your dog’s joints.

2. Warm Up Before Walks

A good warm-up is essential when walking a dog with arthritis. Before you head out for a walk around your neighborhood or the beautiful Seattle parks, take a few minutes to help your dog stretch and loosen up. Gentle movements like slowly walking your dog in a small circle or having them perform basic commands (like sit and stand) can help prepare their joints for activity and reduce stiffness.

3. Start with Shorter, Frequent Walks

When walking a dog with arthritis, it's crucial not to overdo it. Long, intense walks can aggravate your dog’s joints and lead to more pain. Instead, opt for shorter, more frequent walks—perhaps 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day. This allows your dog to get the exercise they need without putting too much strain on their joints.

In Seattle, there are plenty of dog-friendly parks like Discovery Park and Alki Beach where you can enjoy scenic strolls without overtaxing your pup. If the weather’s colder or rainy, consider walking on paved paths instead of uneven trails to minimize joint strain.

4. Use the Right Leash and Harness

A traditional collar and leash might not be the best choice for a dog with arthritis, as they can put pressure on the neck and spine. Opt for a well-fitted harness that distributes pressure evenly across your dog’s chest and back. This reduces the strain on their joints and neck while allowing them to move more comfortably.

Make sure the leash is also lightweight and easy to handle, and avoid jerking or pulling, which can cause additional strain.

5. Choose Soft Terrain for Walks

While Seattle is home to many beautiful trails and parks, it's important to be mindful of the terrain. Soft surfaces like grass or dirt are easier on your dog's joints compared to hard pavement. If possible, avoid concrete paths, as the hard surface can aggravate arthritis symptoms.

If you're walking in areas with mixed terrain, such as Capitol Hill or Ballard, be mindful of any inclines or uneven ground that could cause discomfort. Stick to well-maintained trails with softer ground whenever possible.

6. Pace Your Walks and Monitor Your Dog

It's essential to walk your dog at a pace that is comfortable for them. Avoid fast or high-energy walks, and instead, keep a slow, steady pace that allows your dog to move at their own comfort level. Watch for signs of fatigue, such as slowing down or limping, and always be ready to adjust the walk as needed. If your dog is showing signs of pain, take a break or cut the walk short.

7. Consider Joint-Friendly Supplements and Diet

Managing your dog’s arthritis goes beyond just exercise. Speak to your vet about adding joint supplements to your dog’s diet. Glucosamine and chondroitin are popular options that support joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial for dogs with arthritis. Extra weight can put additional stress on their joints. Make sure your dog is on a balanced diet to help keep them at a healthy weight, and avoid feeding them unhealthy treats.

8. Stay Consistent with Regular Vet Checkups

Arthritis is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. It’s important to keep your dog’s condition monitored by your vet regularly, so you can adjust their treatment plan as needed. If you notice any changes in their mobility or behavior, let your vet know so they can make recommendations to ensure your dog’s comfort and well-being.

9. Provide a Comfortable Resting Area at Home

When your dog is not out for a walk, it’s important to provide them with a comfortable space to rest. Consider getting an orthopedic dog bed that offers extra support for arthritic joints. In Seattle's cooler months, warmth can also help, so a heated bed or a cozy blanket can make a significant difference in keeping your dog comfortable at rest.

Conclusion: Caring for a Dog with Arthritis

At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we are passionate about supporting dogs with arthritis, ensuring they get the care and exercise they need without the risk of exacerbating their condition. By following these tips, you can help your dog stay active, healthy, and pain-free. Whether it’s a short walk through Gas Works Park or a cozy rest at home, it’s the small adjustments that make all the difference in managing arthritis.

If you're in Seattle and need professional dog walking services tailored to your dog's specific needs, don't hesitate to reach out to Trails and Tails Dog Walking. Our experienced team is here to help keep your dog comfortable, happy, and moving with ease!

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with walking and caring for your dog with arthritis. Your pup’s well-being is our priority!