Pet Pals

Special Thanks to Pet Dads

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 19:58:04 GMT

Special Thanks to Pet Dads

Happy Father's Day to all the incredible pet dads in our Pet Pals community!

Today, we celebrate the special bond between you and your beloved pets. Whether you're the proud dad of a playful pup, a curious cat, a chirpy bird, or any other cherished companion, your love and dedication make a world of difference.

Thank you for the early morning walks, the countless games of fetch, the gentle belly rubs, and the extra treats. Your pets may not be able to say it, but their wagging tails, purrs, chirps, and happy dances show just how much they appreciate you.

Here's to the pet dads who:

- Share their bed (and sometimes their pillow) with their snuggly companions.

- Always have a stash of treats and toys ready for spontaneous playtime.

- Know that a pet's love is one of life's greatest treasures.

We'd love to see and share your special moments!

Tag us in your posts #HirePetPals or share with us your favorite pet dad photos and stories on our

Facebook Page or Instagram Page

Let's make this Father's Day extra special by celebrating the joy our pets bring into our lives.

Thank you for being such wonderful pet dads. Enjoy your day, filled with love and furry (or feathered) hugs!

Warmest wishes,

The Pet Pals Team

In the Mountains in Montana

ChadBolstad@hirepetpals.com (Keli Bolstad) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 21:09:44 GMT

In an instant—everything changed.

It was in the mountains of Montana, writing my idea down on paper, when it dawned on me. This wasn’t an option, it was a calling. An unshakable feeling down to the very last cell in my body that I had to share my passion for pets with the world. I had no idea, in that moment, that my life would change forever. Or even more shockingly, just how much it would change…..

....fast forward to now

We know how stressful it can be to leave your beloved pets behind when you head off on vacation or go to work. Your pets are family, and you want to ensure they receive the best care possible while you're away.

That’s where **Pet Pals In-Home Pet Sitting and Midday Dog Walking** comes in!

With over 13 years of full-time pet care and dog walking experience, we’re here to provide you with peace of mind. Here’s why you can trust us with your pets:

**Bonded and Insured**: Your home and pets are protected.

**Fear Free Certified**: We create a stress-free environment for your pets.

**Pet 1st Aid and CPR Certified**: We are prepared for emergencies.

**Real-Time Updates**: Get instant updates, photos, and videos on your smart device, no matter where you are.

Imagine being able to enjoy your vacation or work knowing that your pets are receiving top-notch care and love in the comfort of their own home. With our real-time updates, you can see exactly how your pets are doing, anytime, anywhere. Whether it’s a midday walk or a cozy cuddle session, you’ll be in the loop.

Leave your worries behind and enjoy your time away, knowing your pets are in loving, professional hands.

HirePetPals.com

Turkey Tributes: When Pets Pose as Thanksgiving Turkeys!

ChadBolstad@hirepetpals.com (Keli Bolstad) — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 05:07:09 GMT

Our adorable furballs are gobbling up the Thanksgiving spirit in style.

Thanksgiving isn't just about delicious food and family gatherings; it's also a time for creativity and fun. As we prepare to celebrate this season of gratitude, some pet owners go above and beyond by dressing up their furry friends as turkeys, adding an extra dose of cuteness to the festivities.

From fluffy felines to tail-wagging canines, pets across the globe join in the Thanksgiving spirit by donning turkey costumes that range from simple feathers to full-on feathered outfits. These adorable transformations not only bring joy to their owners but also capture the hearts of anyone who sees them.

This Thanksgiving, let's give thanks for the joy, love, and laughter our pets bring into our lives, even if they sometimes sport feathers and strut around like turkeys!

Pet Pals Recent Focus Group Conference Call

ChadBolstad@hirepetpals.com (Keli Bolstad) — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:47:33 GMT

Hey Pawesome Pet Parents! - Just had to translate the tea from this furry focus group! Key note - If you want to upgrade your fur baby's social life, hire Pet Pals ASAP.

- Full Transcript -

Barkley (Dog): �� Exciting News, Furry Friends! ��I had to share the tail-wagging joy – Mom and Dad hired Pet Pals for my midday walks, and it's like having my own personal playdate every day! �� No more waiting for the clock to strike 'walkies.' Now it's walkies galore with my Pet Pals pals, and let me tell you, we're the talk of the dog town! ��️

Daisy (Dog): Barkley! That sounds amazing! Tell us more about these Pet Pals.

Whiskers (Cat): Yeah, I want a personal playdate too!

Rocky (Dog): And I'm tired of waiting for 'walkies.' I want my walkies when I want my walkies!

Barkley (Dog): Well, let me fill you in on the scoop, my canine buddies! First of all, Pet Pals is like a dream team of dog walkers. They take me on exciting adventures every day, rain or shine.

Whiskers (Cat): Adventures, you say? I'm up for some adventure!

Daisy (Dog): Me too! I love a good stroll in the park.

Rocky (Dog): Count me in as well. I'm ready to explore.

Whiskers (Cat): I guess that also means since it's winter now, there's no more worrying about our hoomans braving the icy roads to dash home for lunch and a quick walk. Pet Pals keeps them worry-free while I stay cozy and warm!

Daisy (Dog): So, Barkley, how do our hoomans get in on this paw-some action?

Barkley (Dog): Well, my four-legged pals, all they need to do is check out Pet Pals, and they can have doggy happiness on demand!

Daisy (Dog): This sounds like the solution to all our problems!

Rocky (Dog): Our hoomans will thank us for this!

Barkley (Dog): Exactly! Get your hoomans to join the canine conversation, my friends – and be sure to thank them!

Whiskers (Dog): Thanks for the tip, Barkley! We're definitely going to tell our hoomans about this Pet Pals thing.

Daisy (Dog): Yeah, we're not going to miss out on all the fun.

Rocky (Dog): Let's make sure our furry friends stay happy and warm this winter.

Whiskers (Cat): That's the spirit, my pals! Spread the word, and let's keep those tails wagging!

[The four friends share a hearty laugh, and the video conference ends on a pawsitive note.]

One more way Pet Pals is here for YOU!

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:44:52 GMT

Hear from the pet experts!

Hey there friend! I'm excited to share something exciting with you that I believe can transform how you learn about all things pets.

Are you tired of reading posts that are lackluster? We believe that amazing pets are for everyone and we truly mean everyone—from those with a house full of kids, to those who travel for their work, and more!

Pet Pals is here to bridge the gap and help you create amazing relationships with your pets.

You’re invited to come and learn from some of the best experts, pet parents, and more that reside right here in our amazing community of Sioux Falls, SD and surrounding areas! Experts who have “been there and done that” and ones the who have the credentials to prove it. By bringing the best and brightest experts and curators together, we’ve created the Pet Pals Bark & Learn PODCAST that will transform the way you live with your pets.

Simply search for "Pet Pals Bark & Learn" to listen on the following apps:

Spotify

Stitcher

Podcast Addict

Podchaser

Pocket Casts

Deezer

Listen Notes

Player FM

Podcast Index

And the following apps are still pending. These may take up to 2 weeks for approval, but we have submitted the Pet Pals Bark & Learn podcast to:

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Amazon Music

iHeart Radio

Pandora

TuneIn + Alexa

Thank you dearly for all the support and downloads!

What do you want Pet Pals to talk about? We are here to serve YOU!

Please forward to this email to your family and friends. Also, sharing this link to your social media pages helps us out greatly. In puppy kisses and barks we thank you! www.podcast.HirePetPals.com

3 Ways to Happy Cats!

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 21:31:32 GMT

Happy cat, Happy house.

Cats are making a name for themselves. These hot-shot superstars in funny cat videos, memes, reels, and TikTok videos. So why not give them a special month of glory where we can celebrate their stubbornness, independence, and selective self-sustainable being. February is for the cats, and more specifically it's for their health, it is called National Cat Health Month." Pet Pals encourages every cat parent to spend the month with extra focus on their cat's physical and emotional well-being, and research signs of unhealthy behavior or illness.

Pet Pals has compiled 3 tips to help ensure your furry cat friend stays in tip-top shape.

1. Litter boxes should be in a well-lit, quiet, and ventilated room of the house that's easily accessible to your kitty. It should not be in a dark, noisy place because he may choose not to use it. You should also clean it once a day. It's a good way to notice changes that may be a sign of health issues.

2. Even though cats spend approximately five hours a day grooming themselves, they still need our help to stay happy and healthy. Depending on the length of your kitty's hair, you'll want to make brushing part of your weekly or daily routine.

3. Yes. Feline pet parents also need to get their kitties used to nail trims and teeth cleanings. Slowly get them used to have their paws and nails touched. Do the same with their teeth and gums. An excellent way to start with dental health is by having them taste kitty toothpaste.

Extend ‘agape’ love to your kitty friend. As Albert Schweitzer once said, “There are two means of refuge from the misery of life – music and cats.”

Pet Pals - Pet care, dog walking, and dog mentor experts in the Sioux Empire committed to making people and pets' lives easier, healthier, and happier. Your Pet Will Thank You!

Happy National Cat Health Month! Brag about you cat in the comments, pictures and/or video encouraged!

Better Pet Care Service Starts Here - Customer Testimonials

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 21:26:03 GMT

Better Pet Care Service Starts Here

Thank you for your unprompted and thoughtful words, Vicki. Thank you for the continued trust you have put in our brand. Pet Pals ongoing success relies on the loyalty and support of customers like you. We’ll make sure we continue to put the needs of our Pet Pals first.

Year In Reflection

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 21:02:06 GMT

A note from Pet Pals Founder, Pet Pal Keli

As we close out and celebrate 2020, we look back on an unpredictable and unprecedented (but not unprepared for) year. Pet Pals' mission to be the premier pet services company proudly serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding area and our core value to give back remained strong and consistent throughout 2020. In fact, it was this mission and all of Pet Pals' values that found us well prepared for this unbelievable year!

Pet Pals ended 2019 as a record-breaking year and started 2020 serving more people and pets than ever before. Immediately Pet Pals was on track to outpace 2019! As such, Pet Pals entered new partnerships to bring our community greater convenience, expanded free community education, and even more value.

Then came COVID and the world changed, but Pet Pals' mission and values did not. Pet Pals pushed harder to give you the freedom to live the life you want while having the loved, cared for, and well-behaved pet(s) you deserve. While travel mostly stopped and so many people started working from home, Pet Pals did not. Instead, Pet Pals recommitted its longevity, safety, and reliability to our community ensuring that Pet Pals would remain available and safe for people and their pets throughout this pandemic. While many people went into isolation or quarantine, Pet Pals did not. Through enhanced safety measures, COVID 19 training, Pet Pals continued serving pets and, in many cases, became the much-needed social interaction for people working from home, no longer traveling, and/or only going out for essentials. While many companies looked for ways to distance themselves from their Clients, Pet Pals did not. Beyond maintaining services in our Client's home, Pet Pals branched out to new services that successfully and safely brought people together. For example, Pet Pals Mini Holiday Photo sessions brought people and their pets together in an incredibly fun way at a beautiful state of the art natural light studio to provide them with unique and professional family photos. While many companies, governments, and/or people struggled with finding a way forward, Pet Pals did not. We knew prior to and steadfast throughout this year that Pet Pals will go beyond unsurpassed service to people and their pets to also serve our community in the customized and safe way that is best for each of our Clients (human and pets).

For those that had to stop services, their spots were reserved, and Pet Pals committed to being ready when those Clients were once again ready. Beyond this, Pet Pals extended offers of help and aid to families and their pet(s) as appropriate to their needs. For those on the front lines working extra hours, Pet Pals remained at the ready with expanded availability. In fact, and throughout 2020, Pet Pals' was available 24/7 and worked countless hours being there when needed for everything from our services, to answering your pet related questions, to letting you in your house when you got locked out, and so much more. For those working from home, Pet Pals gave extra time to talk with and ensure people (not just their pets) were being cared for. Remember that our greatest pride is in Pet Pals being a family business and that for many of our Clients, this Pet Pals business is family! While many friends and families were forced to be distant this year, your Pet Pal was not!

2020 brought greatness too with many people, companies, and governments stepping up to help others just as Pet Pals did. With a strong track record and commitment to our community and giving back, Pet Pals of course increased giving this year. Giving time and money in support of local people and pets; Pet Pals increased its involvement and year-round giving to fundraisers, non-profits, shelters, schools, and more, because being the best for our Clients is simply not enough. And in return our amazing community supported Pet Pals! Clients partnered with Pet Pals to ensure their pets retained proper care and to ensure Pet Pals maintained operations; because not having a Pet Pal for their pet was simply not an option.

In 2020 people were still busy, they lived, worked, and navigated COVID world the best they could and yet, still had the cared for and loved pet(s) that they wanted and deserve. And with Pet Pals in 2020, people had cared for and loved pets in a way that made their lives easier! At Pet Pals, we say, “Your Pet will Thank you!” and surely they do; yet beyond that, Pet Pals thanks you! Thank you for your support. Thank you for the dreams you have, the motivation to see them become reality, and the will to maintain a high quality of life for your pet(s) at the same time. Thank you for not giving up! Thank you for partnering with Pet Pals in our resolve to maintain our mission and values that will always see us through. Thank you for being part of something that is making a positive difference in people’s and pet’s lives. With the hope that you are enjoying the holidays safely with family and friends while still finding time to relax, recharge, and redream; thank you for an unforgettable 2020!

From reflection to repeat, Pet Pals has complete confidence in our ability to continue our mission and values into 2021. Beyond continuing to be the best option for Pet Parents that want unsurpassed services, exceeding their needs, and supporting their increasingly complex lifestyles; Pet Pals will continue to give back to our community. Whether 2021 brings renewed optimism or renewed strength to persevere; Pet Pals looks forward to continuing as a leader within our pet community, a positive part of our Clients lives, and making a meaningful difference to both! And we look forward to working with you on the opportunities that lie ahead. We cannot wait to share with you all of Pet Pals plans for 2021! Here's to an amazing 2021 filled with ever loving and ever happier People and pets!

January Bark & Learn - Walk Your Dog Month

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 20:43:29 GMT

Soon to become law?

Various news sources are reporting that as early as next year, “Taking your dog for walks twice a day for at least an hour in total could soon become the law in Germany.” Under the proposed rules, dog owners would be required to take their dogs for at least 2 walks a day and totalling at least one hour of walk time. Additionally, owners would not be allowed to leave dogs alone the whole day.

On the surface, this may seem ridiculous and yet so far there’s been no push back from the dogs! Seriously though, it is generally believed that dogs benefit the most from two to three walks a day at 15-30 minutes per walk. Of course, the reality is that this varies according to at least your dog’s, breed, age, size, health conditions, and even eating habits.

For example, very active breeds such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, or Siberian Huskies require much more activity (frequency and time). And its not all about walking either. Working breeds like a Boxer, Great Dane, or Schnauzer really need mental stimulation beyond the physical aspects of a walk. Regardless of the breed, stage of life, or personality of your dog; a Pet Pals Adventure will suit these pup(s) to give them exactly what they are craving and needing.

Additionally, Pet Pals understands people struggle to walk their dog for many natural reasons and especially when the dog pulls or is reactive. Pet Pals Mentorship Walk and Train Program uses positive reinforcement methods to help the dog understand how to walk nicely on leash. We know that a reactive dog can leave everyone feeling emotionally drained, and people with such dogs often end up walking in the very early morning or late at night to try and avoid other people instead of picking a time that is truly best for them and their dog. Bottom line, training can make a big difference, and Pet Pals does just that; makes the difference!

Still, the complication and variables to consider don’t stop there either. There are times when it is not appropriate to take dogs for long walks out when different styles of walking are called for, such as when they are recovering from surgery, suffering from some medical condition, too old and/or otherwise not mentally or physically fit enough to enjoy it, or when extremes of weather make it unsafe, etc. Here too the list can be endless and it is really about the specific dog, their environment, and what’s best for them instead of a one size fits all approach. Still and in these circumstances, Pet Pals is well prepared with other activities, such as taking them for a “Pet Pals Sniffari” and letting them sniff to their heart’s content, using food toys, snuffle mats, or various other activities that your dog will enjoy, that will keep their mind moving, and that will be physically appropriate for them.

Most importantly to remember, you do not have to stress or otherwise spend time thinking through all of the above, or even remembering it as we’ve already taken care of it. It's what we love doing! Pet Pals is here to help fill in the gaps with your dog walking schedule and bridging the gap between living the life you want, while still the love and cared for pet(s) you deserve. Beyond walking your dog(s) for you, Pet Pals can customize a plan for you, your dog, and your lifestyle, and Pet Pals will have them ready for you and your dog to have an enjoyable walk together.

��Hire Pet Pals to walk your dog once a day and we also challenge you to enjoy walking your dog once a day. Pet Pals challenges you to walk your dog once a day, 5 days a week in January. Let us know your experience and if you beat the challenge!

��‍♀️Also, Pet Pals Wants Your Thoughts: should pet parents be legally required to meet minimum standards for walking their dogs?

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 8!

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 04:40:56 GMT

Staying in touch with family is important, especially when a brag is needed for your pup!

As you seen on Pet Pals Facebook page and/or Instagram you seen no mention of coming here to the blog. This is just for YOU! You came here on your own and that means soooooo much to us!!! For that when you go back to Day 8 on Pet Pals Facebook page and/or Instagram page and type this keyword in the comments "Borborygm" you will get 15 extra entries into the drawing! I, Pet Pal Keli, am having a rumbling in my tummy. Who else gets the late night snack attacks?! This word seems fitting since it means hungry, lol!

About Day 8!

Echo Show 5!!!

Need to show off the new Christmas puppy to your family? Want to show your family a new trick your pup has learned? Pet Pals is giving away an Echo Show 5!!!!

Connect with your favorite people! Make hands-free video calls!

Not certain what your dog is into downstairs, no more yelling! With the Echo Show 5 make a voice announcement to every room with a supported Echo device!

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

Each day Pet Pals will post a picture with that day’s giveaway to Facebook, Instagram, and/or Blog. Simply like the picture and you will be entered in to WIN! Tag a friend(s) for another entry, each tag is an additional entry! Read the Pet Pas blog post for that specific day for details on additional entries into the drawing.

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

Guidelines: Winners will be announced via Pet Pals Facebook page, Instagram and/or blog post. Contest rules or contest may change or cancel at anytime for any reason. You may be asked to pick up giveaway item(s) in Sioux Falls, SD. Giveaway item(s) may be shipped (you may have to pay for shipping/handling charges) or Pet Pals may drop off giveaway at your Sioux Falls, SD resident (given you provide address if requested). Giveaway item(s) must be claimed 1 days after announcement or you will forfeit your item(s).

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 7!

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 04:24:37 GMT

Why should I wash my dogs dish daily?

How often do you wash your dog’s bowl?

Like most people, probably not enough.

Don’t feel guilty… It’s never too late to start!

I mean dogs eat…

• Eat cat poop,

• Eat another dog’s vomit

• Gnawed on a bone that was in the garden from weeks ago.

• Eat road kill

• And the list goes on

And, well, they give their butt a good lick.

How often should you wash your dog’s bowl? Many vets agree that you should wash your dog’s bowl daily!

Up for grabs from Pet Pals is a the YETI Boomer 8 Dog Bowl!!!! This is perfect for your furry companion while out exploring and adventuring outdoors. It’s great for both at home or while on the go. It’s constructed with double-wall, non-insulated stainless steel for maximum durability and a BearFoot™ Non-Slip Ring to keep the bowl in place as they eat or drink. Fill it full with water, kibble, or other dog treats.

TECHNOLOGY:

DuraCoat™ Color Technology is built to last with no chipping, fading or cracking

18/8 Kitchen-grade stainless steel construction for extreme durability

BearFoot™ Non-Slip Ring on the bottom prevents the bowl from sliding

FEATURES:

Puncture-resistant and rust-resistant

Food safe

Dishwasher safe

BPA-Free

SPECS:

Capacity: 8 cups/64 oz.

How to enter: Go to Pet Pals Facebook page or Instagram page and

�� Simply like this picture and you will be entered in to WIN.

��LIKE Pet Pals Facebook page.

�� Tag a friend(s) for another entry.

��Read the Pet Pals blog post for details on additional entries into the drawing! Link to the blog post in comments will be posted later.

��Share publicly on your timeline and/or in a local pet group for an additional entry!

��Share this post in your Facebook stories for 5 additional entries. Don't forget to tag #HirePetPals so we see your story!

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 5!

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 22:34:17 GMT

Accessories for you Dog!

So excited to have our friends at Sew Doggy Boutique join us today! Sew Doggy has hand sewn pet accessories made in the heart of South Dakota! Up for grabs today is a Poop bag holder of your choice, a $10 gift card to use in their Etsy shop and a toy for your furry pal! Pet Pals is throwing in a $10 gift certificate to Pet Pals making this package worth over $35!

How to enter:

�� Simply like this picture on Pet Pals Facebook page or Instagram page and you will be entered in to WIN.

��LIKE Pet Pals Facebook and Instagram page.

��Tag a friend(s) for another entry on either Pet Pals social media page.

��Read the Pet Pals blog post for details on additional entries into the drawing! Link to the blog post in comments.

�� Share publicly on your timeline and/or in a local pet group for an additional entry!

Go back to Pet Pals Facebook and/or Instagram page (doing both gets double the entries) in the comments of Day 5 tell us what your fave Sew Doggy accessory is! Doing so will get you 5 additional entries into Day 3's drawing.

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 4

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 22:27:00 GMT

Jerky Flavored CBD Sticks - 150mg 12oz Jar

We pet parents know how much you love your pooch. He/she is your best friend. Gives you pure happiness and comfort when you're together. But there are times that your pet can be very challenging, especially if they are suffering from a certain ailment. As a Pet Parent, all you want to do is ease whatever pain or discomfort your best friend is feeling.

CBD has been incredibly useful for pet parents, vets have seen wonderful benefits for our furry friends. *As always, talk to a veterinarian prior to giving anything new to your pet.

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 3

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 00:40:05 GMT

Imagine your family’s delight when this game appears! Caution: Excessive dog humor is contained within.

Board games have exploded in popularity and variety. Games are a great way to pass the time while stuck indoors. If you don’t want to jump on the recent craze of playing tic-tac-toe with your pets (although this is very unpredictable fun) here is super fun game to play with your family in person or via zoom!

I got to thinking the other day......Honestly, I don’t actually know how parents survive the high-chair phase without a dog. Dogs will do all of the clean up for you. No sponges, brooms, or special floor mats are necessary. My dog was so efficient at cleaning the high-chair and the floor and the cabinets and the walls and the mini-blinds…

Heck, she even cleaned the baby. Now, you can skip bath time and go straight to the wine or tea.

Trust me, just get a dog if you don't have one. If you do have one and a child (or 6) share of picture of them together! This ought to be heart melting fun! Go back to Pet Pals Facebook page and in the comments of Day 3 put a picture of your of your human and pet kid! On Pet Pals Instagram Page tag Pet Pals in your picture, #HirePetPals. Doing so will get you 5 additional entries into Day 3's drawing.

A little about this game (description from the makers)

HILARIOUS FAMILY GAME: Family game night just got wackier! Play the Dog Game to answer the age-old question: “What do dogs think about?” Whoever gives the best answers wins! Hilarious for kids and adults alike, this board game engages dog lovers of all ages in silly, dog-centered fun.

EASY TO LEARN, FUN TO PLAY: Players compete to match dog pictures to dog thoughts, questions and more. After each round, players vote on the best answer. Whoever wins gets a treat and the player with the most doggy treats wins! Easy to learn, you and your family can play as soon as you open the furry box!

INTERACTIVE FAMILY GAME: The Dog Game encourages players to get creative as they engage in word play and answer very silly questions. Get your family laughing with this hilarious game!

The Dog Game is a great family board game for kids aged 8+. For 3-6 players. Caution: Excessive dog humor is contained within.

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 2

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 22:49:26 GMT

Pet Pals - doing what we can do to give pets the best lives possible!

Dogs have far more sensitive hearing than humans and can detect much quieter sounds. Their sense of hearing is about four times as sensitive as ours, so what we hear at 20 feet, a dog can hear at about 80 feet. They also hear a lot of things we don’t because they can hear higher-frequency sounds. From available data, scientists suggest that dogs hear in frequencies as high as 67,000 cycles per second (also called hertz), while humans hear frequencies up to 64,000 cycles per second. This means there are some sounds that are inaudible to us but quite available to our dogs. For example, they can hear the high-pitched chirping of mice running around inside the walls or in the woodpile.

There's no shame in feeling just a little guilty when you have to leave your pets behind, whether it be for a quick errand, night on the town or for vacation. Knowing you have the best and highly trained pet care provider from Pet Pals helps also! (The adorable drooping face and sad eyes don't make it any easier.) When you leave you may turn on music to keep your furry friend company. Some pets prefer it, some don't as it may hinder their ability to hear outside noises thus creating anxiety. Each animal is different in their preference, here at Pet Pals we believe the right way is what your animal prefers and keeps them the most comfortable.

Should you be the lucky WINNER of this Amazon Echo Dot and your pet prefers the music left on you can say to your dot, " Hey Alexa, play calming music for pets."

Want 5 more entries into this drawing, up to 15? Answer the following question on Pet Pals Instagram page, Facebook page, and here on the blog. Doing all three will get you 15 more entries in to the drawing!

In honor of national mutt day, go back to Pet Pals Facebook page and in the comments of Day 2 put a picture of your "mutt" and tell us a little bit about him/her. On Pet Pals Instagram Page tag Pet Pals in your picture, #HirePetPals. On the blog here tell us about your Mutt.

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

Pet Pals 12 Day of Christmas Giveaways - Day 1

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 20:57:33 GMT

One of the most anticipated Pet Pals event of the year!

WOW, what a year. Pet Pals has done some serious shopping to help brighten this difficult time. We are SO incredibly happy you are here! Welcome to Day 1!

Up for grabs:

��Locally made by a Sioux Falls Small Business 2020 Pandemic Ornament, roughly 3.5” in diameter from 1/4” pine.

��12 Dogs of Christmas Stationery. Includes 12 cards, 12 envelopes, 3 erasers, 45 stickers, 2 gel pens, and decorative tape.

��Snowy the Surprise Puppy book!

Retail Value: $36.98

If you would like to WIN this Pet Pals Prize Package:

��Simply like this picture on Pet Pals Instagram and/or Facebook page and you will be entered in to WIN.

��You MUST LIKE Pet Pals Facebook page and/or follow Pet Pals Instagram page.

��Tag a friend(s) for another entry in the comment on Pet Pals Instagram and/or Facebook page.

��Read the Pet Pals blog post for details on additional entries into the drawing!

��Share publicly on your timeline and/or in a local pet group for an additional entry!

How many times a day do you tell your dog he/she is a good boy/girl?

Rules and Guidelines for this contest:

***Must “LIKE” Pet Pals Facebook or disqualified.

The New Normal - Ways to help your pet kids transition.

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 21:34:35 GMT

Your dog is talking to you.

With businesses and parks opening back up, people becoming more comfortable socializing, and everyone getting use to "the new normal"; our pets too will be coming back into contact with people and animals. Many will be trying to get that cute photo or video of their dog social distancing. Of the love a friend, child, neighbor, or otherwise gives or gets from their dog. "It's so cute" and "totally adorable" are frequent comments that are heard and seen. Unfortunately, "I never thought he/she would bite", " no!", [insert yelling of dog's name here], or worse are all to frequent comments too.

While people missed others during quarantine, are eager to get back to being around others, and can easily manage that transition; their dogs are a very different story. Dogs have not missed others outside their family. Instead, their "pack" has probably been closer than ever. Many dogs have likely been getting more attention than they used to prior to COVID-19. With that, many dogs have likely experienced lower anxiety the last few months and have very much enjoyed this Pandemic. These dogs already have their "new normal" and it's routine that they have picked up over the last few months. The change back may not be easy for many of our pups.

It is important in the coming weeks and months to help our pet kids make this transition. Know that they may be more protective of their people or property than they used to be. Know your dog may be more hesitant or anxious around people and dogs from outside their pack than they used to be. Most importantly, know what to look for, know how your dog communicates with their body language, and know how to support them. Positive reinforcement and listening to your dog's warning signs will not only further improve that bond with you, it just may prevent the above mentioned unfortunate comments or worse.

Watch this video to help understand some of your dogs body language.

https://youtu.be/5loTIVlVQAI

Smile - does a soul good!

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:28:19 GMT

Smile just because you can! Pass it on!

Smile!

Smiling is infectious,

you catch it like the flu,

When someone smiled at me today,

I started smiling too.

I passed around the corner

and someone saw my grin.

When he smiled I realized

I'd passed it on to him.

I thought about that smile,

then I realized its worth.

A single smile, just like mine

could travel round the earth.

So, if you feel a smile begin,

don't leave it undetected.

Let's start an epidemic quick,

and get the world infected!

~Author Unknown~

Model Pet Pal Charlie

Dog Fart Day!

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:26:01 GMT

Why yes, a day for celebrating (or raise awareness) Dog Farts!

The formation of gas in the stomach or intestine is referred to as flatulence. Today most people refer to the annoying and rather offensive smell and noise associated with flatulence as a fart.

Let's face it no one enjoys sharing an environment with anyone farting, so here is some information to help you understand why your pet has to fart and what you can do to help.

The most common cause of excessive farting is a change in diet or from the dog eating something new or spoiled (dietary indiscretion). Soybeans, peas, beans, milk products, high-fat diets and spicy foods are all commonly associated with farts in dogs. Dogs and cats are lactose intolerant and if they are fed milk or dairy products they will often experience farts. Dogs that swallow air, especially those that eat rapidly, are more likely to experience more farting.

In a worst-case scenario, dog farts could indicate more severe gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease or other ailments. Our research found on PetMD, "When gastrointestinal disease is the cause, there are usually other symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting." Also, you may be tempted to douse the area with fragrant air freshener but household deodorisers often contain ingredients that are unsafe for both you and your dog to inhale. Some of the product could get in your dog’s eyes or land on their skin causing irritation. Look for a natural room or bedding spray that is non-toxic and safe for pets

You will never be able to completely stop a dog from farting. After all, it’s just natural! The good news is that if your dog’s gas is noxious enough to clear a room, there are definitely ways you can improve the situation. If you have any tricks on how to lower the amount a dog farts, share them in the comments section below. What do you call farts in your house?

Hug Your Dog Day!

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:21:43 GMT

I have learned that there is more power in a good strong hug than in a thousand meaningful words. It's National Hug Your Dog Day!

Oxytocin is a neurochemical that helps us build trust, that somewhat “dissolves” short-term memory, and that makes you feel, well, warm all over. Studies show that even a brief touch of the hand from someone who cares can start your oxytocin pumping. So when you offer a bear hug to someone in pain, or receive a big old bear hug when you are in pain, you not only begin the healing process, but you also allow your body to shut down memories of the painful stimulus. In both humans and dogs, oxytocin, a hormone associated with love, attachment and trust is released from the brain when you hug your dog.

Some dogs however are actually stressed out by hugs. To figure out if your dog likes hugs be certain to look out for signs of anxiety, like turning head away to avoid eye contact, whining or barking, yawning, licking, or ears down and back and other body language signs. If your dog stays relaxed or even wags his tail, feel free to celebrate Hug Your Dog Day at your own risk, (we had to put this in here for legal reasons) every day.

Some dogs may not like hugs. But a noggin pet and ear scratch are always appreciated! Do we need to say more? Do we really need to ask for photos?!

Fostering

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:20:00 GMT

I hear so often , “It would be too hard for me to foster. I’d get too attached. I could never give them up.”

Fostering animals is about taking a deserving creature into your home, during their greatest time of need, nursing them back to health, accepting the pain of their past... loving, teaching, and guiding them… and then... sending them off to live the lives they deserve. Fostering is about giving a dog (or any animal) the one thing they’ve never had or lost… hope. And with the simple act of opening up your home and hearts to them, YOU are able to grant their one wish. YOU are able to make their dreams come true. YOU are able to save their life. Pet Pal Gilda is proof, she was adopted and look at Pet Pal Gilda with her brothers!!!!

BIG HUGE incredible Thank You to Dakota Dachshund Rescue for getting this love out of the breeding circle and saved from euthanasia. To Pet Pals Gilda's foster Mom, thank you for making a difference for Gilda!

Throwback Thursday to Gilda in this live video.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=574642936477786&id=174147725974688

Dog Bite Prevention Week

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:16:47 GMT

So why do dogs bite? Although not an exhaustive list, some of the reasons include: pain, stress, age, fear, dominance, aggravation, and prey drive.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week:

No matter how many articles I read or stories I hear about someone being bitten by a dog, I take the dog’s side! Well, at first anyway and as a starting point; until I learn the facts. You see, unless the dog is purposely provoked, raised in a hostile or negative environment, or otherwise trained to bite people, it's typically the person who is at fault in some way. Moreover, my experience from working as a professional pet care provider has taught me that our clients don’t want to bite and they even give us warnings if, for whatever reason, they feel the need to bite. Dogs are good at letting us know that something isn’t right and it is our responsibility to heed that warning.

So why do dogs bite? Although not an exhaustive list, some of the reasons include: pain, stress, age, fear, dominance, aggravation, and prey drive. Take aggravation for example. If you tease or otherwise aggravate a dog, then you are setting yourself up to be bitten. Alternatively, we should back off at signs that the dog is distressed at whatever is going on. It is not funny when a dog is growling and showing teeth and instead, it is a classic sign of "BACK OFF"! Or how about pain? Maybe a dog doesn’t feel well or is in pain and just doesn’t want to be bothered. Remember too that not just old arthritic dogs, but even younger dogs may have temporary back or leg pain and simply do not want to be touched. They could also just have an upset tummy. Even your best friend for many years (human or dog) may snap at you if he is in pain or is sick.

Consequently, be conscious and considerate of your dog's feelings. It will go a long way in preventing bites and let's be honest, what relationship doesn't improve from one being conscious and considerate of the other.

Pet Pals is interested to hear your thoughts!

Worth repeating again!

As we talked about, dogs don’t speak human language but they do talk to us! Dogs can’t tell us how they are feeling with words but their body language speaks with just as much clarity. Some signs that a dog is uncomfortable include: .

• Avoiding eye contact

• Licking their lips

• Tail tucked between their legs

• Stiffened body

• White showing around the eyes

• Moving away from a person or situation

• Crouching low on the ground

• Ears back or pulled tight against the head

• Excessive yawning

These are some signs the dog is at its limit and needs someone to intervene immediately to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.

Dog Bite Prevention Week

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:14:46 GMT

Whether we are raising a dog from a puppy, or adopting an older dog, it is up to us to manage and train our dog in a manner that will diminish the probability that the dog will bite.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week

It’s well known that human personalities change as we age. Just as a child's behavior is different than an adult's, your puppy's behavior will change as he matures. As he develops physically and socially, his conduct will also transform in subtle and perhaps not-so-subtle ways. As such, it is important not to assume, even if you've done an excellent job socializing and training him, that your dog is a "finished product" at any given point in their life and it is imperative that we be conscientious, responsible dog parents.

Whether we are raising a dog from a puppy, or adopting an older dog, it is up to us to manage and train our dog in a manner that will diminish the probability that it will bite. That entails raising our dogs in an amicable, loving environment, respecting their tendencies and instincts, and seeking a professional for dog walking. This is important as sometimes a bite is not a result of the underlying dog's personality. Unfortunately, there are times the reason a dog offers to bite is because of who is at the other end of the leash or as a result of humans or animals coming at them. A Professional is experienced in maximizing safety according to the dog's personality and in accounting for the other variables involved in the walk ensuring the Walker is a safety tool instead of a risk and ensuring the ongoing positive growth in your dog's personality.

Because we cannot stress this enough! As we talked about, dogs don’t speak human language but they do talk to us! Dogs can’t tell us how they are feeling with words but their body language speaks with just as much clarity. Some signs that a dog is uncomfortable include: .

• Avoiding eye contact

• Licking their lips

• Tail tucked between their legs

• Stiffened body

• White showing around the eyes

• Moving away from a person or situation

• Crouching low on the ground

• Ears back or pulled tight against the head

• Excessive yawning

These are some signs the dog is at its limit and needs someone to intervene immediately to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.

Dog Bite Prevention Week

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:12:30 GMT

Pet Pals Dog Bite Prevention Tip: Dogs are just like people, they have different personalities and varying levels of patience for children and the way they play.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week: As we talked about yesterday, dogs don’t speak human language but they do talk to us! Dogs can’t tell us how they are feeling with words but their body language speaks with just as much clarity. Some signs that a dog is uncomfortable include:

• Avoiding eye contact

• Licking their lips

• Tail tucked between their legs

• Stiffened body

• White showing around the eyes

• Moving away from a person or situation

• Crouching low on the ground

• Ears back or pulled tight against the head

• Excessive yawning

These are some signs the dog is at its limit and needs someone to intervene immediately to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.

Pet Pals Dog Bite Prevention Tip: Dogs are just like people, they have different personalities and varying levels of patience for children and the way they play. Respect is an integral part of family structure that should be extended to family pets. Lessons such as teaching children to approach dogs calmly, to respect their space if they are eating or playing with a toy, and to ask permission to pet an unfamiliar dog will all lead to a happy relationship with their pet and a decreased chance of being bitten. Some situations when children should respect the personal space of the family dog include when the dog is:

• Eating

• Sleeping

• Chewing on a toy

• Over stimulated/ hyperactive

In these situations treating an animal with respect and kindness can help reduce bites that stem from being startled or resource guarding. Understanding dog behavior, creating a safe environment for family pets, and educating children on appropriate behavior around dogs will all contribute to a decreased risk of a dog bites. .

Dog Bite Prevention Week

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:10:46 GMT

Pet Pals Dog Bite Prevention Tip: It is our responsibility to understand canine body language and knowing your own dog’s “dialect” is most important.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week! Nationally, this week is focused on educating people about preventing dog bites. Pet Pals would like to take this opportunity to share ways that you can prevent dog bites from happening in our community.

Unfortunately, people are often unaware that a dog is indicating, “I am worried over here. What is it about STOP that you don’t understand?” Since people and dogs don’t speak the same language and neither is perfectly bilingual between the two dialects, the disconnect can result in a person considering an interaction to be “friendly” while the dog views the same interaction as threatening!

Pet Pals Dog Bite Prevention Tip: It is our responsibility to understand canine body language and knowing your own dog’s “dialect” is most important. Be mindful of your dog’s reactions to people, other dogs, and traffic both near and far. We humans are sometimes so caught up in the surrounding environment and our own self-consciousness that we fail to look down to watch our dogs’ eyes, ears, mouth, tail, and posture. Taking the time and having the awareness of understanding what your dog is communicating can prevent bites or other injuries to people and dogs.

Pet Pals is Fear Free Certified!

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:08:47 GMT

Pet Pals is now certified in Fear Free as an added benefit to you and your pet kid(s) in order to reduce the negative effects that stress has on your pets and the corresponding impact that can have on you and your family.

In his book The Light in the Heart, Roy Bennett states; “There are five important things for living a successful and fulfilling life: never stop dreaming, never stop believing, never give up, never stop trying, and never stop learning.” Rest assured friends that dreaming, believing, commitment to continue, and effort to be the best are as strong as ever. This environment cannot shake that and more importantly; Pet Pals remains here and strong for you and our Pet Community! In fact and if anything, this Pandemic has allowed for extra dedicated time toward that “never stop learning”! In addition to Pet Pals’ ever expanding experience, we never stop formal education. For example, in recent years, Pet Pals has completed hundreds of class hours on Cat and Kitten Care, Dog Walking, Senior Pet Care, and Pet First Aid just to name a few. Most recently,��‍♀️ I’m proud to announce Pet Pals is now a Fear Free Certified service provider!

The Fear Free treatment of pets, founded by “America’s Veterinarian,” Dr. Marty Becker, and developed by hundreds of experts in pet behavior, medicine, and handling was a natural fit into Pet Pals’ beliefs and already ongoing treatment of Pets! In fact, when you see Fear Free’s mission “to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them”, you might immediately think of Pet Pals’ very own Pet Mentorship Program as it was built on very similar concepts. For example, in order to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in pets, we must understand how our pets communicate signs of FAS to us. Common signs of FAS in a dog lincude: a tense face, lips drawn back, tail down, body lowered, dilated pupils, snarling or growling. Common signs of FAS in a cat are tucked tail, crouched posture, hissing, pupils dilated, and ears pinned down to the side. Fear Free certification includes not only recognizing the signs, but also knowing how to react or not react to them. And then understanding how to identify and handle the stressors that cause FAS. A stressor can be any experience, environment, an inanimate or living object that disrupts the body’s normal state of functioning. Examples of stressors to pets include noise, odor, pain, disease, and unfamiliar people. This is just the tip of the Fear Free iceberg.

Pet Pals is now certified in Fear Free as an added benefit to you and your pet kid(s) in order to reduce the negative effects that stress has on your pets and the corresponding impact that can have on you and your family. This can increase your pet’s health, wellbeing, and longevity. Moreover, it further strengthens Pet Pals’ ability to customize our services to do what works for you, your family, and your dog(s) in order to meet your specific needs.

National Pet Parents Day - April 28th

Mon, 04 May 2020 19:04:08 GMT

Celebrate you because today is Pet Parent Day!

Pet parents will do some pretty weird things. How can you not, when you love your pet kid(s) more than life itself? Share your quirky habits, so we can celebrate you because today is Pet Parent Day!

Although Pet Pals celebrates pet parents every day, National Pet Parents Day is observed annually in April. This day was created to honor all dedicated pet parents across the nation with a special day of their own. As such and for all those pet parents we show appreciation to all year and even those pet parents that have not yet experienced Pet Pals, we wish you a very happy and relaxing national Pet Parents day!

There is a very special connection, a unique bond, between Pet Pals and pet parents. This unique relationship, which can often last for many years, can be a vital part of the ‘pet parents’ life and has been a driving force behind Pet Pals since day one. So on this day, even more than others, we celebrate what it means to be a pet parent. From the trials of potty training to remembering those who have crossed the rainbow bridge, thank you for choosing to be a pet parent! From the endless walks to the sometimes sleepless nights inherent with pets that are up when you're trying to sleep or are simply bed hogs, we thank you for being a selfless pet parent! From the wrecked shoes to the perfect cuddles, we thank you for being passionate about your pet kids.

Great job pet parents on making a difference to millions of pets around the world and on meaning the world to Pet Pals! Have a pawsome day! We love to see a pic or vid of you and your pet kid also!

Traits of Top-Notch Pet Sitters

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 15:05:19 GMT

For professional top-notch pet sitters, pet sitting is a profession as much as a passion; it’s definitely not a hobby.

They Are Very Well-Educated about Pets

Top-notch professional pet sitters are educated. They know about different pet breeds, their specific physical needs and their nutritional needs. They are aware of animal resources in your community such as vet clinics, pet stores, pet-friendly parks, etc. They are knowledgeable about different threats to your pet (such as icy weather or ice melts to dog’s paws) and know how to prepare. They are also up-to-date on pet trends and new discoveries in pet care.

They Have a Calming Presence and Bond with Your Pet

Top-notch professional pet sitters have a presence that pets are drawn to. They are able to put your pet at ease. Your pet should have a positive chemistry with the pet sitter you choose, which is why it’s important to interview pet sitters before you hire them. Let them meet your pet. Watch their interaction.

A truly professional top-notch pet sitter will also be honest if they do not feel a connection with your pet. Part of the joy of being a pet sitter is spending time with pets that they love. Who wouldn’t want that?

They Are Professional and Have Emergency Care Plans in Place

Your most qualified professional pet sitters will not only have educated themselves about different pet breeds and their specific needs, but they will also already have a plan of action for what to do in emergency situations. For example, What if they get sick? What if they ingest poison? A top-notch pet sitter will know who to call, where to go and how to respond. They know that pet sitting is about much more than showing up and feeding and walking your pet.

They Are Experienced

The best professional pet sitters will have glowing reviews from former clients. They will not be shy about providing references (make sure to vet these). Note very experienced pet professional sitters have long-term clients, that speaks volumes.

They Have Excellent Communication Skills

As a pet parent, you want to know how your pet is doing especially if you have to be away for long stretches of time. The best professional pet sitters are the ones who put your heart at ease by communicating with you frequently when they are watching your pet. They send photos and videos of your pet to you to let you know that they just finished a walk with your pet or even call you, so your pet can hear your voice on the phone.

They Are Bonded and Insured

For professional top-notch pet sitters, pet sitting is a profession as much as a passion; it’s definitely not a hobby. Truly solid professional pet sitters have taken the time to get insured because they know that things can happen beyond their control. They form an LLC or other entity for their professional pet sitting activities.

HIRE PET PALS! Over 13 years of Professional Pet Sitting Experience, locally owned/operated, bonded and insured! Your Pet Will Thank You!

Top Benefits of In-Home Pet Care

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:10:46 GMT

There is no place like home!

If you’re a pet parent, you know how stressful it can be to leave your beloved dog or cat at a boarding kennel while you go on vacation. Kennels can be noisy, they’re full of strange smells and they may not have the creature comforts your pet enjoys at home. Some facilities do try to make it like home, there is no place like home!

Fortunately, this isn’t the only option! For many pet parents, in-home care from a trusted locally owned and operated Professional Pet Sitting company can be a great alternative to traditional boarding arrangements when you have to leave town or long work days.

Benefits of having a professional take care of your pet in your own home include the following:

Familiar Surroundings

Even if the kennel workers are kind and friendly, spending several days in a strange environment is incredibly stressful for anxious dogs (and for virtually all cats!). These pets are often much happier if they can stay in their own homes. Over the 13 years of professionally pet sitting we have heard many times over, “my dog couldn’t go anymore when we got home, thoroughly exhausted” What we question is, is your dog exhausted from anxiety?

Flexibility

Many professional pet sitters have flexible schedules, and can work around any specific needs or requests you might have for your pet’s care. Here at Pet Pals we do and you choose how many times a day you want the sitter to stop by, and how long you want the visits to last. Some sitters will even stay overnight so your dog or cat has someone to cuddle up with in bed!

Personalized Attention

A Pet Pals Professional Pet Sitter spends more one-on-one time with your dog or cat than the staff at a busy boarding kennel. Many pets are lonely and bored while their human families are away. Why not take advantage of a sitter who can cuddle with your kitty on the couch, play brain games, enrichment games, stroll around the neighborhood, playing fetch with your dog in the backyard, and sign them a song good night?!

Other Services

Often, a Pet Pals Professional Pet Sitter can also take care of other minor tasks around the house such as watering plants, bringing in the mail and feeding the goldfish. This can be a great way to get more bang for your buck, rather than paying to board your pets and hiring (or relying on a neighbor to remember) a separate person to house-sit.

The next time you have to leave town for a few days, consider all the available options for pet care while you’re gone. To find a qualified sitter call Pet Pals!!!

What EVERY Pet Parent Needs to know Prior to Hiring

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 15:41:58 GMT

Meet and carefully evaluate potential pet sitters, ask the following questions.

When you hire someone to take care of your pets, how qualified are they to walk or sit your pet? What's their level of training? Are they prepared to handle emergencies? How will they respond if something goes wrong? Who's responsible if your property is damaged or your pet gets hurt, bites someone?

With the explosion of pet care services nationwide, these are questions every pet owner should ask in depth before agreeing to pay someone for pet care services.

Many pet sitters and dog walkers work for small pet care businesses, which evaluate, train, monitor and assume accountability for the people they hire. Many are sole business owners in full control of the services they provide.

A growing number of pet care providers are part-time walkers and sitters who find work through apps and websites that offer the service of connecting dog and cat owners with people who sign up to be pet care providers. Online reviews about app-based services range from glowing compliments, to scathing complaints. The facts are, that the people are not vetted. That there is no rigorous testing in the care of an app-based pet sitter.

“A May 14, 2019 review by an outside source of the online Terms of Service of the two biggest app-based pet care companies, offers enough fine print and legal jargon to make your eyes glaze over. But there are important disclaimers.

One app based business says upfront " MAKES NO REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY, OR GUARANTY AS TO THE RELIABILITY, TIMELINESS, QUALITY, SUITABILITY, AVAILABILITY, ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE SERVICES."

Other app based business says: "We make no representations or warranties about the quality of boarding, pet sitting, dog walking, house sitting, or other services provided by Service Providers."”

If you're dealing with a professional pet care company, what kind of training do they require for their employees? How well do they vet their employees before they hire them? What are their standards and policies? Are they insured and bonded? If they are, what exactly does that mean?

Ask if they belong to an established professional pet sitting or pet care association. Keep in mind, there are excellent pet care providers that do not belong to a professional organization so don't make that a deal killer, but membership in a organization that promotes high standards and ongoing education can be a plus.

You should ask the same of any app-based pet care provider. Can you provide references, beyond online reviews? Have you been certified in Pet First Aid or training? What's your previous experience with animals? Will you be bringing anyone with you to the pet care visits? Do you have insurance (there is not a legal requirements at this time, it is up to the individual person to carry insurance.)? What's your backup plan if you can't make it? What are the potential danger areas you watch for when caring for or walking dogs?

Here at Pet Pals we take pet safety very seriously. We encourage pet parents to meet and carefully evaluate potential pet sitters.

Professional Pet Sitter - What to look for!

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 15:58:01 GMT

Next time you have to leave town for a few days, consider all the available options for pet care while you’re gone and be equipped with knowledge on how to find a professional pet sitter!

Characteristics of a Professional Pet Sitter

As Professional Pet Sitters, you might imagine that we strive to be the best caretakers of your pet while you are away. And you’re right! Some characteristics of a Professional Pet Sitter might seem obvious, but truly being invested in a pet is hard work that involves lots of care, love, time, education and passion.

We encourage you to look at the list below. Here at Pet Pals, our job is our passion. Professional pet care is what we love to do, and so we make sure to encompass all the traits listed below. However, before hiring any pet sitter, it is important to evaluate whether the person you hire is best suited for your pet or not.

Here are characteristics of a Professional Pet Sitter.

Is The Person Calm?

Some pets are already nervous nellies when their parents take a vacation or are out of the house. What child enjoys being separated from his or her parents? This is where a calm personality is important. Some anxious cats and dogs participate in unusual behavior they would not normally do. If the pet sitter comes in to find a mess on the carpet or a pet who won’t eat, will the person stay calm and clean up the mess without becoming angry at the pet? Will they spend time with an anxious dog who refuses to eat and slowly encourage him to have his meal by trying different techniques?

Is The Person Trustworthy?

This one may seem obvious, but it is a necessary point to bring up. When you hire a Professional Pet Sitter for the first time, you are inviting a stranger to come into your home, care for your beloved friend and stay respectful of your property. When it comes down to it, follow your instincts. If you have a bad feeling, listen to your gut.

At Pet Pals, a Pet Pals Meet and Greet is always included before your hire us to make sure the fit is a perfect one for the pet, the parents of the pet and the pet sitter. All of our pet sitters are background checked. Our experience and positive reviews from our clients are a testimony to the diligence and seriousness of our passion.

Is The Sitter Insured And Bonded?

Again, this is an important point. Essentially, a pet sitter that is insured and bonded shows that the company is professional and they take things seriously. Insurance guarantees the protection of you and the pet sitter if something unexpected were to happen with your pet, the pet sitter or your property. Being insured and bonded makes the relationship even more trustworthy, because you can have the peace of mind that nothing will happen, and if it does, you are covered.

At Pet Pals, we are fully insured and bonded.

Is The Pet Sitter Flexible?

Of course, a pet sitter’s flexible (or not so flexible) schedule is a make or break deal. If the sitter cannot care for your pet at the times you need them to, things will not work out. Again, who wouldn’t have thought of this key point? But it is also necessary to consider how much the pet sitter is willing to do during non-typical work hours. Will the pet sitter take extra time with your pet? If there is an emergency and your pet needs to be taken to the vet, will your pet sitter have that information and be equipped to do so? Not all pet sitters put their heart into dealing with these situations.

The next time you have to leave town for a few days, consider all the available options for pet care while you’re gone and consider the above points. Choose a Professional Pet Sitter! Pet Pals would love to connect with you!

info@HirePetPals.com

605-999-1355

Professional Pet Sitter -Why? The Good, The Awesome, The Ugly.

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 15:43:24 GMT

Keep in mind these simple points when making your decision regarding your pets care.

Using a professional provides pet parents with a peace of mind that other pet-care options ultimately fail to do. Just because you’ve seen pet sitters in an online directory — or even on a nationally-publicized site — doesn’t ensure they are legitimate, qualified pet-sitting businesses, bonded and insured, and more.

Anyone with any level of experience, reliability, or integrity can post a profile advertising pet-sitting services. It's important for pet parents to educate themselves on the credentials needed and questions to ask when selecting a pet-care provider. After all, we lock our doors for a reason when we leave the house. For that same reason, we shouldn't just give anyone a key to our house and invite them to be there when we are not!

We love our pets and want to protect them while giving them the best care possible. Many of us have to go to work daily leaving our pets alone for many hours. We may even have to leave them for a weekend or a week or two. While there are alternatives such as day care and boarding kennels, pet sitters offer our pets individual one-on-one attention and do things your way. Our pets can remain in the same environment and enjoy their regular routines without interruption, thanks to pet sitters. Just as important, pet parents get the freedom to come and go as they please instead of working around some facility's hours of operation. Pet parents using a Professional Pet Sitter leave when they want, come home when they want, and come home to their beloved pet already there and happily greeting them!

Going away and planning for a trip can be overwhelming enough without having to worry about what to do with your pets while you’re gone. If you’re like me, your pets are family. I can’t simply leave them behind with just anyone.

Before going on my trip I must put my mind at ease and feel confident in the care they will get during my absence. Whether to board or hire a Pet Sitter is one of those questions we’ll need to consider. Adding to the mixed feelings of the moment is the idea that we may not know much about either option.

To help you arrive at an informed conclusion I’ve prepared this list. Or what I’m calling, the good and the bad the ugly (you do your research on the ugly of major apps). Hopefully it’s a fair and impartial list, although you probably know which way I’m going to lean. It should serve as a good starting point for anyone wanting to get more details about either choice.

Professional Pet Sitter

If you’re leaving town for any period of time the advantage of having a professionally insured and bonded Pet Sitter to visit your house regularly is an added benefit. A Professional Pet Sitter will watch over your house, turn on or off any lights, bring in the mail, and generally ensure that the house looks lived in. This alone can be a big deterrent to possible burglars and a stress reliever for you.

A Pet Sitter will most likely have general knowledge of many different kinds of pets and not just cats and dogs. Pet Pals has cared for horses, birds, turtles, hamsters, fishes, reptiles, guinea pigs, and rabbits, to name a few, and know how to care for each.

Dogs and cats feel safer, less anxious, and more secure in a comfortable and familiar environment as opposed to being transferred to a kennel. My choice has always been, and always will be, to leave my dogs and pet kids in their home.

Pets can get extra play time and individual attention with a Professional Pet Sitter without the extra charge that is often billed at kennels.

A Professional Pet Sitter are qualified to deal with most emergencies as well as be able to administer medication on a regular schedule.

Certain pets such as puppies, kittens, seniors or disabled dogs, or those on medication may require a more regulated schedule and intense care and supervision. They may also undergo a fair amount of stress in kennel environments.

A dog who has separation issues or is reactive to other dogs will certainly be better off with a Professional Pet Sitter than in a kennel.

****VERY IMPORTANT - Pet Sitting is a very easy business to set up with very little restrictions (especially with the explosion of Apps) . This means that in the mix with some highly qualified, caring, responsible, care providers you’re also bound to find many unprofessional, uneducated, smooth talkers who are looking to make a quick buck. Do your research. Hire a Professional Pet Sitter like Pet Pals!!!

Hire Pet Pals!

Love Your Pet - Having a good life together, you need to know this!

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 15:55:22 GMT

Dogs have about 30 calming signals, perhaps even more. Some of these signals are used by most dogs, while other dogs have an incredibly rich ´vocabulary´. It varies from dog to dog.

Dogs use this communication system towards us humans, simply because it´s the language they know and think everyone understands.

By failing to see your dog using calming signals on you, and perhaps even punish the dog for using them, you risk causing serious harm to your dog. Some may simply give up using the calming signals, including with other dogs. Others may get so desperate and frustrated that they get aggressive, nervous or stressed out as a result. Puppies and young dogs may actually go into a state of shock.

HOW THE DOG IS USING THE CALMING SIGNALS

Yawning

The dog may yawn when someone bends over him, when you sound angry, when there´s yelling and quarreling in the family, when the dog is at the vet´s office, when someone is walking directly at the dog, when the dog is excited with happiness and anticipation - for instance by the door when you are about to go for a walk, when you ask the dog to do something he doesn´t feel like doing, when your training sessions are too long and the dog gets tired, when you have said NO for doing something you disapprove of, and in many other situations.

Threatening signals (to walk straight at, reach for the dog, bending over the dog, staring into the dog´s eyes, fast movements, and so on) will always cause the dog to use a calming signal. There are about 30 different calming signals, so even when many dogs will yawn, other dogs may use another calming signal.

All dog knows all the signals. When one dog yawns and turn his head to the side, the dog he is ´talking to´ may lick his nose and turn his back

- or do something completely different.

The signals are international and universal. All dogs all over the worlds has the same language. A dog from Japan would be understood by an elkhound who lives in an isolated valley in Norway. They will have no communication problems!

Licking

Licking is another signal that is used often. Especially by black dogs, dogs with a lot of hair around their faces, and others who´s facial expressions for some reasons are more difficult to see than those of dogs with

lighter colors, visible eyes and long noses. But anyone can use licking, and all dogs understand it no matter how quick it is. The quick little lick on the nose is easier to see if you watch the dog from in front. It´s best seen if you can find somewhere you can sit in peace and quiet and observe. Once you have learned to see the lick, you will also be able to see it while walking the dog.

Sometimes it´s nothing more than a very quick lick, the tip of the tongue is barely visible outside the mouth, and only for a short second. But other dogs see it, understand it and respond to it. Any signal is always returned with a signal.

Turning away/turning of the head

The dog can turn its head slightly to one side, turn the head completely over to the side, or turn completely around so that the back and tail is facing whoever the dog is calming. This is one of the signals you may see most of the time in dogs.

When someone is approaching your dog from in front, he will turn away in one of these ways. When you seem angry, aggressive or threatening, you will also see one of these variations of the signal. When you bend over a dog to stroke him, he will turn his head away from you. When you make your training sessions too long or too difficult, he will turn his head away from you. When the dog is taken by surprise or take someone by surprise, he will turn away quickly. The same happens when someone is staring or acting in a threatening way.

In most cases, this signal will make the other dog calm down. It´s a fantastic way in which to solve conflicts, and it´s used a lot by all dogs, whether they are puppies or adults, high or low ranking, and so on. Allow your dog to use it! Dogs are experts at solving and avoiding conflicts - they know how to deal with conflicts.

Play bow

Going down with front legs in a bowing position can be an invitation to play if the dog is moving legs from side to side in a playful manner. Just as often, the dog is standing still while bowing and is using the signal to calm someone down. These signals often have double meanings and may be

used in many different ways - often the invitation to play is a calming signal by itself because the dog is making a potentially dangerous situation less tense and diverts with something safe.

Recently, in a puppy class with a mix of puppies, one of them was afraid of the others in the beginning. The others left him alone and respected his fear. In the end he would dare to approach the others. When he did, he went into a play bow as soon as one of the other dogs looked at him. It was an obvious combination of slight fear of the others, as well as wanting to

take part in the playing.

When two dogs approach each other too abruptly, you will often see that they go into a play bow. This is one of the signals that are easy to

see, especially because they remain standing in the bow position for a few seconds so that you have plenty of time to observe it.

Sniffing the ground

Sniffing the ground is a frequently used signal. In groups of puppies you will see it a lot, and also when you and your dog is out walking and someone is coming towards you, in places where there´s a lot going on, in noisy places or when seeing objects that the dog isn't sure of what is and find intimidating.

Sniffing the ground may be anything from moving the nose swiftly down toward the ground and back up again - to sticking the nose to the ground and sniff persistently for several minutes.

Is someone approaching you on the pavement? Take a look at your dog. Did he drop the nose down toward the ground, even slightly? Did he turn his side to the one approaching and sniff the side of the road?

Of course, dogs sniff a lot, also in order to ´read the paper´ and enjoy themselves. Dogs are pre-programmed to use their noses and it´s their favorite activity. However, sometimes it´s calming - it depends on the situation. So pay attention to when and in which situations the sniffing occur!

Sniffing the ground may be anything from moving the nose swiftly down toward the ground and back up again - to sticking the nose to the ground and sniff persistently for several minutes.

Walking slowly

High speed will be seen as threatening to many dogs, and they might want to go in to try and stop the one who is running. This is partly a

hunting behavior and is triggered by the sight of a running human or dog. If the one running is coming straight at the dog, it involves a threat and a defence mechanism sets in.

A dog who is insecure will move slowly. If you wish to make a dog feel safer, then you can move slower. When I see a dog react to me with a

calming signal, I immediately respond by moving slower.

Is your dog coming very slowly when you call him? If so, check the tone of your voice - do you sound angry or strict? That may be enough for

him to want to calm you down by walking slowly. Have you ever been angry with him when he came to you? Then this may be why he doesn´t trust you. Another reason to calm you may be if the dog is always put on a leash when coming when called. Take a look at your dog the next time you call him. Does he give you any calming signals when coming? If he moves slowly, you may need to do something different in the way you act.

Freezing

"Freezing" - is what we call it when the dog is stopping while standing completely still, sitting or laying down and remain in that position. This behavior is believed to have something to do with hunting behavior - when the prey is running, the dog attacks. Once the prey stops, the dog will stop too. We can often see this when dogs are chasing cats. This behavior, however, is used in several different situations. When you get angry and aggressive and appear threatening, the dog will often freeze and not move in order to make you be good again. Other times the dog may walk slowly, freeze, and then move slowly again. Many owners believe that they have very obedient dogs who is sitting, lying down or standing completely still. Perhaps they are actually using calming signals? Very often a dog will stop and remain calm when someone is approaching. If your dog wants to stop or move slowly in a situation like that, then let him. Also, should your dog be in a conflict situation with a human or dog, and is unable to escape, freezing may be one way to calm the other dog or person.

Sitting Down/lifting one paw

I have only rarely seen dogs lift their paw as a calming signal, but on a few occasions it´s clearly been used to calm another dog.

To sit down, or an even stronger signal, to sit down with the back turned towards someone - for instance the owner - has a very calming effect. It´s often seen when one dog wants to calm another dog who is approaching too quickly. Dogs may sit down with their backs turned against the owner when he or she sounds too strict or angry.

Walking in curve

This signal is frequently used as a calming signal, and it is the main reason why dogs may react so strongly towards meeting dogs when they are forced to walk straight at someone.. Their instincts tell them that it is wrong to approach someone like that - the owner says differently. The dog gets anxious and defensive. And we get a dog who is barking and lunging at other dogs, and eventually we have an aggressive dog.

Dogs, when given a chance, will walk in curves around each other. That´s what they do when they meet off leash and are free to do things their own way. Allow your dog to do the same when he´s with you.

Some dogs needs large curves, while others only need to walk slightly curved. Allow the dog decide what feels right and safe for him, then, in time and if you want to, he can learn to pass other dogs closer.

Let the dog walk in a curve around a meeting dog! Don´t make him walk in a heel position while you´re going straight forward - give him a chance to walk in a curve past the meeting dog. If you keep the leash loose and let the dog decide, you will often see that the dog chooses to walk away instead of getting hysterical.

For the same the reason, don´t walk directly toward a dog, but walk up to it in a curve. The more anxious or aggressive the dog is, the wider you make the curve.

Other calming signals

By now you have learned about some of the more common calming signals. There are around 30 of them, and many have yet to be described. Will mention a few more briefly so that you can make further observations:

Smiling , either by pulling the corners of the mouth up and back, or by showing the teeth as in a grin.

Smacking the lips

Wagging the tail - should a dog show signs of anxiety, calming or anything that clearly has little to do with happiness, the wagging of the tail isn´t an expression of happiness, but rather that the dog wants to calm you.

Urinating on himself . A dog who is cowering and crawling toward his owner while wetting himself and waving his tail, is showing three clear signs of calming - and of fear. · Wanting to get up into your face and lick the corners of your mouth.

Making the face round and smooth With ears Close to the head in order to act like a puppy. (No one will harm a puppy, is what the dog believes)

Laying Down With the belly against the ground : This has nothing to do with submission - submission is when the

dog lays down with the belly up. Laying down with the belly towards the ground is a calming signal.

...an there are even more calming signals that are used in combination with others. For instance, a dog may urinate at the same time as he is turning his back to something. This is a clear sign of calming by for instance an annoying adolescent dog.

Some dogs act like puppies, jumping around and act silly, throwing sticks around, etc. if they discover a fearful dog nearby. It´s

supposed to have, and does have, a calming effect.

Start observing and you will see for yourself. Most likely, you will get a much better relationship with your dog and other dogs, too, once you are beginning to realize what the dog is really telling you. It´s likely that you will understand things you earlier were unable to figure out. It is incredibly exciting, as well as educational.

Welcome to the world of the dog, and to knowledge of a whole new language!

Sources: Tuid R. and Bone Cans

What is my Puppy saying?

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 01:45:55 GMT

Understanding dog body language is extremely helpful when communicating with your dog.

Training is the act of communicating with your dog and/or puppy. It takes daily practice, but it's the key to a strong bond with your dog baby. Consistent training and education will create trust and respect for one another.

Pet Pals ran a month long series about "puppies." Truth be told this information can work with any age of dog or any breed! If you missed any of blog post in the series check them out here!

The Ultimate Puppy Socialization Guide

Starting off on the right paw!

Secrets to Potty Training Your Puppy!

Top Tips for Puppy Parents!

The last post of this series is about dog language.

There is so much goodness about dog body language online, the key is to search it, learn it, and practice it. Understanding dog body language is extremely helpful when communicating with your dog. Like us, dogs communicate their moods through postures, and when we can understand those postures, we can finally understand what a dog is doing and why it’s doing it. A lot of dog postures communicate desires, moods, and ranks. They’re easily interpreted by canines, but not people. We may for example misinterpret a wagging tail as a sign of friendliness when it could mean a dog is scared and doesn’t want you to hurt it, or it could mean that the dog will bite you if you continue toward it or its territory. The best way to interpret dog body language is to observe all of its body parts: the facial expression, the stand, the tail, the wrinkles… everything. You can’t depend on just one part to fully interpret a message especially if you’re dealing with a dog with a docked tail or curly tail for example.

The following cues will help you correctly interpret your dog’s mood:

Body

A sulking low body crouched to the ground indicates submission, fear, or fear-aggressiveness

A standing, raised, and forward leaning body indicates aggressive or predatory excitement.

A front-leg extended bow with head down and air-borne rum indicates a desire to play or get some attention

A belly exposed body laid on the back indicates submission or fear.

Ears

Fully lifted, open, forward facing ears indicate high interest.

Partly lifted, open, forward facing ears indicate a pending interest.

Halfway lifted, open, sideways facing ears indicate a worried interest.

Lowered, downward or backward facing ears indicate worry and a desire to leave.

Lowered ears that are plastered to the head indicate outright fear.

Eyes

Hard, staring eyes indicate dominance, aggressiveness, or prey behavior.

Averting eyes indicate submission or fear.

Darting eyes that move to and fro indicate fear or nervousness.

Head

A high head indicates interest.

A high head and arched neck indicates rank over another.

A high tilted head indicates curiosity.

A horizontal head and neck, stiff but forward leaning and slightly crouching body indicates the dog will rush forward at any moment out of curiosity or aggression

A horizontal head and neck (or lowered head), stiff but backward leaning and slightly crouching body indicates the dog wants to run away. It could also indicate fear-aggression.

A horizontal head and neck (or lowered head), stiff but curved body indicate extreme fear and self protection. In this position, the head and rump face the same way.

A lowered head, averting eyes, and crouched body indicate submission to a higher ranking creature.

Tail

A high tail that’s straight and still indicates the dog perceives potential danger.

A high, wagging straight tail indicates dominance and anticipation of a fight.

A high tail that wags in a small arc indicates a desire to befriend a dog of the same rank without conflict, or sexual interest

A tail that gently wags in a wide arc indicates friendliness, interest, and enthusiasm.

A stiff tail that stands straight out indicates interest and pursuit.

A still tail indicates interest only.

A horizontal tail with a drooping tip indicates indecision over whether to go forward or run away.

A gently wagging tail indicates friendliness and a lack of confidence.

A wagging tucked tail indicates a lack of confidence and a low rank.

A still tucked tail indicates fear and/or fear-aggression.

A tightly tucked tail on a dog that lays on its side or back indicates complete submission. A dog communicating the same may also want to pee.

Training may save your dog's life. When a dog responds to your direction, you can impact its behavior in any situation, so make Training a priority. There are many classes and guidance available, Pet Pals Dog Mentorship Program is a great starting point!

The Ultimate Puppy Socialization Guide

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 20:51:04 GMT

Learning the big wide world!

What is socialization?

Trainers have all sorts of definitions, but in the simplest of terms, it's a learning process where your puppy is exposed—in a safe, positive, and non-threatening way—to all of the things he's likely to encounter as an adult dog—other animals, the clapping of hands, elevators, stairs, vacuums, kids on bicycles, women in floppy hats, and so forth. Doing so helps your puppy to develop the coping skills necessary to grow into a mentally sound and confident adult dog.

The socialization process must be positive and productive. This point can't be stressed enough. Taking your puppy to the park and allowing him to be bombarded by other animals, strange sights, weird noises, and hoards of screaming, rambunctious kids grabbing at him, stepping on him, or squealing at him is not a positive experience. Likewise, taking him to a puppy class and allowing him to be mauled, bullied, or sent yelping by bigger, bossier, and more dominant puppies is not a positive experience either. Granted some puppies may not be affected, but the majority of them will suffer in the long run. These types of experiences can permanently traumatize a puppy.

That said, you should take your puppy for plenty of kisses and cookies everywhere that is safe and where dogs are permitted, such as:

• outdoor cafes and shopping centers

• banks

• coffee shops

• horse barns

• veterinarian's offices

Weather permitting, take puppy for rides in the car and walks in the park. Expose puppy to different sounds including the television, radio, and vacuum , other dogs barking , hair dryer , door bell , garbage truck ect (how to introduce these sounds is posted later in this blog post). Let puppy walk and play on different surfaces, such as gravel, grass, sandy beaches, vinyl and tile floors, and so forth. Have a private in home puppy obedience class (shameless plug Pet Pals Dog Mentorship Program) and then invite friends and neighborhood kids over for puppy kisses and supervised play. Another options, attend a small puppy class—not more than three or four puppies—Remember, positive experiences are key.

Keep in mind both genetic and environmental influences impact the development of canine behavior.

When to Socialize Your Puppy:

During your puppy’s first three months of life, puppy will experience a socialization period that will permanently shape puppy's future personality and how will react to the environment as an adult dog. Gently exposing him to a wide variety of people, places, and situations now makes a huge, permanent difference in his temperament.

How to Socialize Your Puppy

• Introduce the puppy to new sights, sounds, and smells : To a puppy, the whole world is new, strange, and unusual, so think of everything he encounters as an opportunity to make a new, positive association. Try to come up with as many different types of people, places, noises, and textures as you can and expose your puppy to them. That means, for instance, have him walk on carpet, hardwood, tile, and linoleum floors; have him meet a person in a wheelchair or using a cane, children, a person with a beard, wearing sunglasses, using an umbrella, or wearing a hood. Think of it as a scavenger hunt.

• Make it positive : Most importantly, when introducing all of these new experiences to your puppy, make sure puppy is getting an appropriate amount of treats and praise, so that puppy associates what puppy is being exposed to and the feeling of seeing something new as a fun experience. Don’t forget to break the treats into small pieces that will be easy for your puppy to digest. Also, don’t be stressed yourself — puppy's can read our emotions, so if you’re nervous when introducing your puppy to an older dog, for example, your puppy will be nervous, too, and may become fearful of other dogs in the future.

• Involve the family : By having different people take part in the socialization process, you’re continuously moving the puppy out of his comfort zone, letting him know that he might experience something new no matter who he’s with. Make it a fun game for the kids by having them write down a list of everything new the puppy experienced that day while with them, such as “someone in a baseball cap” or “a police siren.”

• Take baby steps: Try to avoid doing too much too fast. For instance, if you want your puppy to get accustomed to being handled by multiple people puppy doesn’t know, start with a few family members and slowly integrate one stranger, then two, and so on. Starting this process by taking your puppy to a huge party or a very busy public place can be overwhelming and result in a fearful response to groups of strangers in the future.

• Take it public : Once your puppy is used to the small amount of stimuli, move outside of his comfort zone to expand the amount of new experiences he’ll have.

How to Socialize your puppy sourced from AKC.

Introducing Sounds : Start playing new sounds at a very low volume and make sure your dog has positive experiences while the sound plays in the background — interactive toys and puzzles, short positive reinforcement training sessions, playing with a favorite tug toy, a snuggle session or tummy rub, or a stuffed Kong are all great options! As they become habituated to the sound at a low volume, slowly raise the volume over time.

Grade Your Puppy's Reaction:

When going through this list, select one of the three "grades" for how your puppy reacted to the experience:

• "Loved it!" indicates that your puppy enjoyed the interaction, showed happy, and/or calm and relaxed body language, and would happily continue the interaction if allowed. For exposure to different sounds, "Loved it!" means that your dog doesn't startle or otherwise react to the noise with barking or stress signals, meaning they have become habituated to it.

• "Meh!" indicates that your puppy either didn't seem to care much about the interaction, or wasn't totally sure about it. You might notice some stress signals (such as yawning, lip licking, or submissive body posture) but they're still cautiously interested in approaching or interacting. You can work on moving from Meh! to Loved it! by adding some distance from the item/person and pairing with things your dog loves for a while, before slowly moving closer (or increasing the volume of sounds) as your puppy gets more comfortable.

• "Hated it!" indicates that your puppy did not enjoy the experience at all. They exhibited fear and stress signals, flight or fight responses (trying to run away, hiding, growling, barking, snarling, or biting). Do not expose your puppy to that item or experience again without proper management and support from your Pet Pals Dog Mentor . You will need to use what is called "counter conditioning" for that particular list item and we suggest connecting with a certified positive reinforcement trainer to help you with the counter conditioning process, contact Pet Pals for a referral!

Lots of work, time, and dedication but will 100% pay off! After all this you and puppy need to relax after working hard on socialization, take a listen !

What advice would you give to someone starting the puppy socialization process? Comment below!

Starting off on the right paw!

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 15:54:02 GMT

New puppy and older dog together. Introduction.

So puppy fever has struck again, and you want to know when to introduce your new puppy to your older dog. The good news is, it’s up to you! Provided of course that both your dogs are healthy and well, and your older dog has all their vaccinations up to date. There’s no magic trick to knowing the right time to introduce a new dog to one you’ve already had for a while. But whenever you decide to take the plunge, there are some tricks for making the transition as smooth as possible.

As you follow the tips below, the biggest hurdle to overcome will be the difference between the characteristics and needs of your new puppy, and your older dog. For example the high energy of a new puppy may be hard to balance against an older dog’s lower energy, preference for old routine, or any past injuries or pain. This can make playtime between these dogs tricky to manage. You’ll need to become a bit of an expert at reading your older dog’s body language. Diving right in on the most common question Pet Pals Dog Mentorship Programs receives when a new puppy (or new dog at any age) is brought home!

How long does it take for a dog to get used to a new puppy?

After about three weeks, some play between the adults and the puppy begins, although can take past four or five weeks before they will choose to play with the pup.

Neutral Territory Meet & Greets

Training expert Patricia McConnell recommends introducing dogs to one another in a completely neutral area, like a park or a friend’s house. Make sure the space is fenced-in so that you can let both leashes drag loosely on the ground. “Dogs can feel any slight amount of tension in their leash, and it gives them an overall feeling of tension in their body, too,” she says. If any problems come up, you can easily grab the end of the leash and separate the dogs safely. It’s important the first time to have a second person around to help separate the dogs. And keep an eye on that body language! Stay relaxed and playful, while always gauging the situation. Patricia recalls a particularly difficult introduction of a high energy new dog to an elderly dog of her own. “Whenever they did begin to sniff each other, and one dog looked tense, I’d cheerfully say, Let’s go on a walk! Keeping things moving is probably the most important thing anyone can do to help dogs become comfortable with each other.”

Be on the lookout for any signs of canine aggression. Signs of negative body language include:

· Hunching of backs

· Staring for long periods of time

· Raised fur on the back or neck

· Showing teeth

· Growling

Separate the pup and adult if either of them starts to exhibit aggressive behavior. Wait a few minutes, and then try again. Have treats handy to reward good behavior, and try to play with each dog.

You should also be on the lookout for positive body language. If the pup and adult greet each other with their tails up and their front ends lowered, that’s a sign they want to play, reward!!!!

Respect Your Adult Dog’s Feelings

You might have had your adult dog for several years. They’re probably used to having a lot of attention, love, and play time. It’s important to keep that love flowing when you bring the new pup home.

It may take time for your older dog to come around. Don’t expect your dog and the puppy to get along famously immediately.

That’s not to say it can’t happen, just don’t assume that’s going to be the case.

Your resident dog might be easygoing, but that doesn’t mean that things will go smoothly when you introduce the new pup. Your dog may get along fine with other dogs in the neighborhood, or even the cat! But that doesn’t guarantee instant success.

Give Positive Reinforcement

Introducing a new puppy to an adult dog will test your patience, but try to always stay positive. Have plenty of treats ready to reward good behavior. Positive reinforcement should be your top priority! If anyone is pushing a clicker, shock collar, choke chain, ect Pet Pals suggest to research that mode of training to assure it is best for your dog and your lifestyle. There is a lot to be said about, "shoot I forgot my clicker or choke chain and now my dog won't listen to me." Respect and positive reinforcement is POWERFUL!

Never punish the adult dog. As the dominant dog, it’s only natural for them to show some possessive, dominant behaviors at first. Growling, for example, is a warning. If you punish either the puppy or dog for this behavior, they might eventually bite without giving that warning. The dog may feel it’s not safe to growl if they associate punishment with this type of natural dog behavior. Positive reinforcement, rewarding the right, can teach them to behave and (eventually) accept the pup.

For older pets which are beginning to slow down, the introduction of a new young life in the household can provide a useful stimulus to activity. Older dogs by themselves tend to get ‘stuck in their ways’ – they spend more and more time curled up by the fireside. This can be a downwards spiral – the dog becomes less active, so starts to put on weight, and so becomes even less keen to do anything. Such an animal will not take kindly to a puppy at first – there will be growls and snaps when the puppy refuses to respect the older animal. In most cases, the older dog soon seems to realize that the younger animal is just an innocent young idiot, and the pup learns just how far the old codger can be pushed. In time, they often learn to enjoy each other’s company, and this has very positive effects on the old dog’s quality of life. Exercises more, loses weight and most importantly, a sparkle returns to the eyes. After all, must never let the cheeky young fellow get the better of him!

Secrets to Potty Training Your Puppy!

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 16:21:06 GMT

Top best kept secrets! Pet Pals Dog Mentorship programs shares!

Potty training a puppy is extremely tiring, I’m not going to lie. But I promise it gets easier. You might find yourself questioning why you decided on a puppy to begin with — trust me, we’ve all been there. But after the first week you’ll be able to relax a bit more, and you’ll start to see how well your consistency pays off.

The first week is where you’re going to be watching your pup like a hawk, making sure you intervene before any accidents happen. During the first week you’re going to need to be aware where your pup is at all times. This information is also helpful for a puppy that is just not getting potty training. You both can reset and follow the secrets below!

1. Pay Attention to Your Puppy At All Times

A quiet puppy is trouble, or so the saying goes. Whether he’s getting into the garbage, eating your new shoes or pooping over in the corner — a quiet puppy signals trouble. If you want to prevent accidents before they happen you’re going to need to watch your pup at all times, including every time they wander off. It only takes one accident to set your training back. Now I know that watching your puppy non-stop isn’t exactly fun & exciting, but being able to catch them before they have an accident is why this method works so well. If you’re like many and have trouble keeping up with your pup at all times try using a tether. You can buy a tether from the pet store or simply use a long lead or leash. If tethering your pup to you at all times is what it takes to make sure they’re not sneaking off then go for it. If you’re not keen on keeping your dog tethered you can use baby gates or closed doors to restrict your dogs access to the whole house.

2. Don’t Leave Your Puppy Unattended

Did I mention the importance of not letting your dog out of sight? I did, but this part is so important I need to mention it twice. Your job when house training is to be there to prevent accidents before they happen. You know when your dog is going to have an accident? The moment you’re not looking. There’s not much you can do that makes sense after your dog has had an accident — and you’ve missed out on an important training lesson. Don’t punish your dog if they pee inside. Regardless of all those old training ideas punishment isn’t a good deterrent for house training. Yelling at your dog after the fact just confuses them and makes them nervous around you. If you catch your did in the act you can try to get their attention & move them outdoors. If you’re successful & they continue going once you get outside praise them like crazy. Your pup is going to have an accident or two in the house – there’s no getting around it. What you can do is prevent them from having more by being proactive. Keep them in your sight at all times and take them out every time they start to wander off, smell the ground, or circle (3 big keys your puppy has to eliminate.)

3. Let Your Dog Out Once Every Hour or Two

Letting your pup outside every hour or two gets old, but it’s the simplest way to prevent accidents from happening. If you’ve ever wondered why some people choose to get new puppies during the summer or when they’re on vacation it probably has to do with potty training. If you’ve house training a dog before you know how much time & commitment it takes. Sometimes your dog might not pee outside and that’s OK. An unproductive outside time is better than an accident indoors. Let them wander around a little bit & head back inside. Though most dogs can handle sleeping through the night without accidents keep in mind that their bladders are awfully small so if you can avoid sleeping in I’d do so. Most puppies just can’t hold it for that long. To prevent overnight accidents make sure your pup has peed before bedtime.

4. Praise Your Dog Like There’s No Tomorrow

Every time your dog pees or poops outside it needs to be celebrated. Give them baby talk or a treat, jump up & down, pat their little heads & remind them of how brilliant that decision was. Yes it might look silly, but your pup needs to know he’s done the best thing ever. When you consistently praise your puppy for going potty outside they’ll start to understand that it’s the correct decision, and one that leads to super fun happy time. And when it comes to praise don’t underestimate how motivating it is when it comes to getting your pup to repeat desirable behaviors. Using praise is a clear way to tell your dog that they’re doing the right thing at the right moment, and with repetition they’ll start thinking “I should go potty outside because that makes everyone happy.”

**Don’t get lazy with the praise during the second week. You want your dog to be the proudest creature on earth every time he pees or poops outside. Yes it seems silly after a while, and maybe even a little creepy if your dog stares at you while doing their business – but rest assured, you’re getting the message across. At this point to you can even add a command to the deed - "Go Potty" or "Go Poopy" whatever you want to call it (keep it short). That way, when you are on vacation and/or in unfamiliar territory you can help your dog understand what they should do and "go potty'!!!

Let your dog know that peeing & pooping outside is awesome, and that all sorts of great things come to pups that do awesome things.

Though it differs by each individual dog this is the time when most will come up with their own little way of letting you know they’ve got to go. It might be crying at your feet, ringing a bell you’ve set up or waiting at the door — just be sure to pay attention to these signals & follow up. Once your dog knows how to get your attention when he’s got to go you can relax a little and congratulate yourself on a job well done.

If your dog isn’t giving you an obvious signal that they need to go out (like whining at the door) I suggest teaching them to ring a bell when they need to go outside. Some of the other signs dogs give that they need to go out such as pacing around or circling can be easy to miss if they’re in another room, which is why a noise based signal such as ringing a bell can make things easier.

Make Sure to Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly

Accidents will happen, and it’s important to clean them up thoroughly. Dogs are attracted to spots that they’ve used previously, and remember that their sense of smell is way better than ours. Pet urine can be hard to get out, and not all household products will effectively remove odors. If your dog keeps going in the same spot chances are some of that smell has been left behind. You can opt for a product that’s formulated for removing pet urine odors & stains.

Be Realistic About How Long Your Puppy Can Hold it For

Young puppies can’t hold their bowels & bladders for long. If you come home to find that they’ve had an accident in there it’s quite possible that they can’t hold it that long. Generally puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age. So your 3 month old pup can probably only hold their bladder for about 3 hours. If you’re going to be away at work for long periods of time Hire Pet Pals to let your pup out during the day.

Reminders:

Never punish your dog for an accident. Do NOT rub his/her nose in, yell, or get mad.

Reward your dog generously for going outside (or potty place)! This can not be underestimated as one of the biggest factors in helping a puppy understand how great it is when they potty in the right spot.

Clean up accidents immediately.

NEVER leave your potty training puppy unsupervised. An accident is your fault not theirs.

Immediately after eating, playing, or sleeping you should take your potty training puppy outside to eliminate.

Young puppies before they have bladder control may have to potty as much as every 20-30 mins, so keep this in mind!

Young puppies will often need a bathroom break in the middle of the night between midnight and 3-4pm.

Tell-tale signs that a puppy may have to potty: If a puppy dips their nose to the floor and wanders away from where the activity is happening in the house or circling in one spot.

How long can my puppy hold it - Quick Guide:

2 months old - around 2 hours

Each additional month add 1 hour

6+ months old - 4-6 hours

For additional help, contact Pet Pals Dog Mentorship Program!

Some of the above information was help form puppy leeks!

National Walk Your Pet Month

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 20:44:39 GMT

Importance of Walks and Tips for an awesome walk!

Did you know January is “National Walk Your Pet Month?” (No really, it is.) Pet Pals wants to take this time to talk about the importance walks are for your dog!

Around this time every year we’re all staring down the barrel of our resolutions, but what would your dog wish for if he could set his own goals? Our guess: More walks, since active dogs are happier, healthier, and better behaved.

Want to get out there more but just can’t seem to make it happen? Here are some concrete suggestions for making walks a more regular part of your routine.

1. Learn the Right Way to Walk

Um…I already know how to walk?? you’re saying right now. And of course you do! But believe it or not there’s a right way and a wrong way to walk your dog. If you’re doing it improperly, you may inadvertently making the whole experience less pleasurable for both of you. The more you like walking your dog, the more you’ll make a point to do it.

Leash training is a simple process but requires consistency. Once you teach your dog how to “loose leash” walk, all that annoying pulling will be history.

2. Know Your Different Walk Types

Dogs need to walk for four distinct reasons: elimination, exercise, stimulation, and training. It’s important to remember (and easy to forget!) that every walk doesn’t have to satisfy all these reasons. In fact, setting up a routine where walks are purposeful can help you stick with it.

Elimination walks - These are usually short and to the point, and that’s okay as long as they’re not the only walks your dog gets!

Stimulation walks - are for your dog’s benefit – go at his pace and stop to let him smell the roses.

Exercise walks - are usually long, tiring, and good for both you and your dog…aim to do one of these a day if possible.

Training walks - Those can happen when you need them to. Ideally all walks will incorporate the training principles you and your dog have worked on.

3. Set Your Alarm

No one likes rolling out of bed to walk their dog. But a morning walk is important for your pup, particularly if you’re gone most of the day. Setting your alarm 15 minutes earlier with the express purpose of taking your dog on a walk (or a longer walk) helps you set a healthful routine.

It helps to make these morning jaunts something to look forward to. Is there a coffee shop you can walk by to get your fix every day? Or maybe you use the time to listen to podcasts or chat with a friend in a different timezone? Time is a precious commodity for all of us but time spent being physically active is never time wasted.

4. Create a Shared Goal

Odds are, your dog is getting overweight. It happens. Walking is the absolute best way to help manage your dog’s weight which can ultimately extend his life by years. Slow and steady is the way to build up a walking routine for a dog who’s become largely sedentary.

Walking your dog more can help you hit your own fitness goals, too. Set yourself a milestone for steps you want to take in a day, or even miles to walk in a week. Once you’ve met that goal, set another. Gamifying walks is an excellent way to make them something you enjoy, not something you dread.

5. Hire a Dog Walker from Pet Pals

No one said you have to be the one to walk your dog every time! If you simply can’t dedicate any more of your schedule to walking your dog than you already do, stop feeling guilty and bite the bullet. Dog walkers are less expensive than you think and they’re a simple way to get your dog much-needed exercise and mental stimulation.

Forming a bond with a dog walker is actually a really positive thing for a dog. The right walker can help your dog become less anxious, or even more social. And don’t think of dog walkers as all-or-nothing propositions. Having a walker come two days a week is better than none at all.

You are are ready to walk your dog, here are Pet Pals Dog Mentorship Programs 3 favorite ways to make dog-walking feel more enjoyable and less like a chore!

1. Get yourself ready first.

No matter what time of day you take our walk make sure you are in some super comfy workout or ‘athleisure’ outfit. This includes comfy shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather, and (Pet Pal Keli wears yellow Oakley) sunglasses. It makes the whole walk more enjoyable and you can focus more your pup and less on yourself.

3. Try a shorter leash.

We understand a longer leash or a retractable one can seem more freeing, but they can be so dangerous in the long run. When we are by the street we keep the pet pals on a 4-6ft leash so they are out of harm of spontaneous cars, hazardous waste on the streets and other dogs. Some pet pals would seriously say hello to every pup on the street if allowed and others want nothing to do with others. The reality is, not every dog is friendly and it is way safer to keep him or her in close proximity to you for those ‘uh oh’ moments.

3. The nose goes.

Stops and smells a bush, stop to check this tree mail,mark that mailbox, smell that plant or just the cement… like every five seconds. This can be so frustrating. We all attempt for a nice peaceful walk like we see in commercials. The reality is… pups noses are no joke! One of the best things you can do is, don’t pull! This will make your dog confused and stay put even more. Try bringing a squeaky toy or make a noise to distract them. To help alleviate this habit work on "it is time to go" or "lets keep going" commands on your training walks. Believe it or not letting your furry friend have this special time will totally help mentally stimulate them and wear them out even more than just exercise!

Walking your dog regularly provides a basic foundation for physical and mental health. Like a child, your dog wants to know the world. If he or she is confined to the house for too long, your dog will get bored, and boredom can lead to destructive behavior. Your dog is dependent on you to take them out to explore the sights, smells, and sounds of the world. Pet Pals is here for you! Call or text us if you need assistance 605-999-1355. Yes, we will help you with your dog that pulls or has lots to say to others on a walk.

Top Tips for Puppy Parents

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 16:10:15 GMT

It is not uncommon for puppy parents to ask themselves "What have I gotten myself into?" Thankfully puppy development is well-researched and fairly predictable, Pet Pals Dog Mentorship program is here to help explain!

It’s one of the best feelings in the whole world — those first few hours with your new puppy when everything is perfect and anything is possible. It doesn’t take long, however, for that bubble to burst. It could be the very first day, when you step in that pile of puppy poo on your Persian carpet, or find deep puppy tooth gouges in your treasured pair of Jimmy Choo shoes. It might be that first night, when you pop your pup into his crate for the first time and crawl into your bed, only to be treated to a few pitiful whimpers, then a chorus of cries, and finally a non-stop serenade of screaming as your pup broadcasts to the world how lost and lonely he is.

The better prepared you are to do things right from the start, the fewer “What have I done?” moments you’ll have, and the more possibilities you and your dog will be able to travel together through life. Here’s a guide to getting off to the right start with your new pup.

Top Things Puppies Need:

1. Consistent Elimination Schedule.
Puppies can generally hold their bladder for one hour per month of age.

2. Puppy Feeding Schedule
A basic schedule of three scheduled meals a day until the puppy is over 6 months old and then change to two meals a day unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. It may be tempting to feed your puppy whenever he seems hungry, but establishing a feeding schedule is an important part of your puppy's training and potty training/house breaking. After each meal your puppy should be taken outside to eliminate.

3. Exercise
It's often recommended that a ratio of five minutes exercise per month of age and up to twice a day until the puppy is fully grown. For example, 15 minutes (up to twice a day) when three months old, 20 minutes when four months old, etc. Fully grown dogs can, and often should, go for much longer.

4. Sleep
Research from multiple sources indicate puppies typically spend around 15 to 20 hours a day dozing and dreaming away at 3 months of age.

5. Socialization
Proper socialization can help puppies become well-behaved and happy companions. It's a good idea to help your puppy become acclimated to as many types of sights, sounds, and smells in a positive manner as you can. Be careful on puppy playtimes with groups of puppies, these can do more damage then good.

6. Puppy Toys
Keeping your puppy entertained so it doesn’t become bored and then destructive is critical. One way to do that is with toys. Experts suggest around 5 to 6 puppy friendly toys of various kinds.

7. Puppy Accident Cleaner
Whether you prefer making your own cleaner or buying one from the store, it is important to clean up the poop/potty accident thoroughly. Removing the urine smell is key. Remember dogs have 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about 6 million in us humans. Just because you cannot smell doesn't mean it is fully gone. If they go back to that same place in the house to potty/poop that your sign the spot is not fully clean.

All natural cleaner idea for urine:
Use undiluted white vinegar to soak the area completely and then let it sit for several minutes before blotting dry. Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia smell of urine without fading carpet fibers, making it a good choice for cleaning and protecting your carpet. For additional help, use baking soda (sucks up the moisture of remaining urine and vinegar) to settle into the carpet fibers for about 15 minutes, then vacuum the area.

8. Appropriately Sized Crate
Dogs love the comfort and security of “their" space. Crating or kenneling is not "torture" if used appropriately. This is their safe space and should never be used as a punishment.

9. Collar, Leash, & Harnesses
Remember, puppies are new to “wearing” things. So look for a soft, adjustable collar that won’t irritate their sensitive neck. Also, leashes that are about four to six feet long tend to be ideal. Instead of attaching the leashes to their collars, use a harnesses. Remember, puppies can be susceptible to tracheal collapse and other injuries if too much pressure is applied to their throats.

10. Identification
Microchips - are usually implanted in the neck, but don't cause any pain for your pet. They have no power supply, battery, or moving parts. Microchips are designed with an operating life of an average of 20 years, don't require care, and are only as big as a grain of rice.

Dog Tags - make a tag at your local pet store and place on your puppies collar with your contact information. Can order custom made ones on Etsy as well!

11. Food & Bowls
Up until about one year of age, your puppy will need a high-quality puppy food specially formulated for his age, size, and development. Raw or cooked foods are options as well! In other words, in kibble form larger breed puppies are going to need different types of puppy food than smaller breeds. Use ceramic or stainless-steel bowls that are easy to clean and won’t harbor bacteria the same way plastic does.

12. You
Ask yourself, “What Does My Puppy Need from me?” Along with early health screening, veterinary visits, plenty of socialization, and basic obedience training ( from Pet Pals!); your puppy is going to need consistency, patience, and lots of your love!

Together, these are all critical to the foundation of raising a happy, healthy, and well-rounded puppy!

Tips for Successful Nail Trims!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 16:01:08 GMT

Manis and pedis for our pet kid's are not a luxury. They're a necessity.

Click! Click! Click! Click! That’s the sound of your dog’s paws coming toward you from the next room. Although you’re thrilled to see him, that noise is likely an indication that your furry friend’s nails have grown a bit too long and it’s time for a trim. Many pet parents dread cutting their dog’s nails. Why? It’s the one grooming task that presents the small chance of causing pain, and no one wants that. This is why the right tools and techniques are essential for this important task. Long nails can grow into the pad of your pet's paw. It is not only painful, but it can lead to infection. Depending on body types and activity levels, it can happen with any neglected nail. You should clip your dog's or cat's (or guinea pigs, birds, and more) nails because it provides better traction. Overgrown nails can force your pet kid's paw up, resulting in less of the pad coming in contact with the floor.

ABOUT THE NAIL

Anatomy of a Nail

The toenail is composed of two major parts – the quick, the blood supply and nerve that nourish the nail, and the horn-like nail itself. Just like human nails, dogs do not have any feeling in the nail itself, but the quick contains a nerve that transmits sensations back to the brain. When trimming the nail, it is important to stay far enough from the quick to avoid causing pain or drawing blood.

White Nails

White and tan colored nails are considered by many to be easier to trim. If you have a dog with white feet and white nails, consider yourself lucky! In younger dogs with white nails, the quick is generally easy to see from the side of the nail. Trim a little at a time, looking both at the side of the nail and at the cut surface. In white nails, the cut surface will turn pink just before reaching the quick.

Black Nails

Black nails are a little more challenging because the quick is not clearly visible from the side. If you happen to have a young dog with hooked nails, you can safely trim off the hook, essentially making the nail flat across the bottom, without risk of hitting the quick. If your dog doesn’t have hooked nails, you need to pay very close attention to the cut surface of the nail to know when you’ve trimmed close enough. Initially, the cut surface will show a white or gray center, but as you get closer to the quick, this center will turn black and eventually pink immediately before reaching the quick. Take of just a tiny bit of nail at a time to see this change, and stop when the cut surface shows a solid black center.

PRIOR TO TRIMMING TIPS:

Always leave nails smooth.
This can be done by cutting to the right length and then cutting tiny bits away all around the sharp edge. You can also use a file (pedicure emery boards—coarse—which are available at beauty supply stores) or use a dremel-type tool. Dogs scratching themselves with sharp nails can have disastrous results. Dogs happy to see their owners will jump up on them, and ruined clothing probably won’t lead to great tips.

Never run out of styptic.
Available as a powder or gel, with or without benzocaine, make sure this nail-trimming essential is on hand. Apply using a slightly dampened cotton swab, a pinch between thumb and forefinger, or press the nail into a styptic powder holder.

Watch the fur.
When using a dremel on a long-haired dog, push the nails through a child’s loose weave sock, or a section of tights. The hair will be contained safely while the nail is exposed.

A little training goes a long way.
If a dog hates having its nails trimmed, train it to like it—or at least allow it. Fighting is dangerous and exhausting for everyone.

HOW TO TRIM:

Pet Pals Dog Mentor Tips!

1. Allow your pet to sniff the clipper so that he gets used to it. Give him a few treats to associate the clippers to a positive.
2. Ask your pet in a sit or down, whichever is more comfortable for both of you.
3. Take a paw in your hand and fit the clippers/trimmer over/on the nail. ***STOP! ACCESS*** If your dog is pulling away, showing signs of distress in any way (yawning, licking chops, panting, ect) repeat Step 1 until comfortable. Do NOT proceed froward to "make" your pet get used to it. It is ok to let your pet remove himself and trying again at a later time. Start back at Step 1 until pet is comfortable.

Once comfortable proceed with step 5. Cut the very tip of the nail.

HOW OFTEN TO TRIM

How often you clip your pet’s nails depends on how much his nails get worn down with exercise or by walking on rough surfaces. Check the nails routinely; if they’re too long, they can cause the feet to splay or can catch on something and hurt your pet’s paws.

Trimming nails is an important part of grooming. Pets are meant to walk on their pads, with the nails touching the ground only when running or when needed for traction.

If you prefer to not take this task on, that is OK! Pet Pals recommends Dirty Dog Spa for all your pets nail trimming needs!

Please note: All the pics used in this blog post are not from Pet Pals. Some of the above information is from a collaboration of information researched. Pet Pals is not a vet or groomer. Cut your pets nails at your own risk.

Do I Don't I - Service Dog Etiquette

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 20:47:43 GMT

When it comes to proper etiquette, I am by no means an expert. I know that I shouldn’t put my elbows on the table, and that I should chew gum with my mouth closed. However, in the case of service dog etiquette, it is actually extremely important to know the dos and the don’ts. It can be even more difficult to know exactly how you should or shouldn’t act around them.

Knowing The Dos And Don'ts

When it comes to proper etiquette, I am by no means an expert. I know that I shouldn’t put my elbows on the table, and that I should chew gum with my mouth closed. However, in the case of service dog etiquette, it is actually extremely important to know the dos and the don’ts. It can be even more difficult to know exactly how you should or shouldn’t act around them.

For those training a service animal or utilizing one themselves, day-to-day life can be challenging enough. Anything we can do to make things easier is very important . Knowing how to identify a service dog, and being aware of the proper service animal etiquette, is extremely important to allowing the hander-canine team to properly function. Scroll through below to see the proper way to act around a service dog.

How Do You Identify A Service Dog?
Look For The Vest

One way to identify a service animal is by looking for a vest. When a service dog has a vest on or is in public with its handler or trainer, it is working, even if it appears as though it is not. It is important to remember that even if there is not vest, the dog may be a service animal.

Pay Attention To The Handler Or Trainer

There are some situations where you will be able to observe a handler who is using a service animal to aid them with a disability. Many handlers have ‘invisible disabilities,’ such as diabetes, hearing loss, or other symptoms not readily apparent.This makes it extremely important to take your cues directly from the dog’s handler.

When in doubt, it is best not to approach the owner and dog at all.

The Dos And Don'ts Of Service Dog Etiquette
DON'T: Pet The Dog

You should never approach and pet a strange dog without permission, but this is especially true of service animals. Petting may prevent the dog from tending to the human partner… Most dogs need to be told to be ‘released’ from work mode to interact with someone.”

DON'T: Distract The Dog

A service dog’s focus is extremely important, and distracting him or her by calling or using loud noises can have a negative impact on their attentiveness to their handler. When you spot a service animal, you should avoid “talking, whistling, cooing, barking at the animal, tapping your leg, or clapping your hands.

DO:

Treat Handlers With Respect And Dignity. Service animal handlers deserve to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Please speak to the handler as you would anyone else, and do not ask personal questions about his or her disability.

DON'T: Feed The Dog

Offering food to a service dog is a very big “no-no.” Do not offer a service dog food or dog treats. Even though service dogs are trained to ignore food on the ground and not beg for treats, your offerings may serve as a distraction for the dog.

DON'T: Stare Or Take Pictures

Do not photograph or video record a service dog team without permission.

DON'T: Approach With Another Animal
In the same way that you shouldn’t distract a service dog by petting it or making loud noises, you shouldn’t ever approach with another animal.

As much as you trust your pet to behave well, it can still be a large interference to the service animal that is currently “on the job."

DO: Use The Opportunity To Educate

One of the great things about spotting a service dog is that you can use it as an opportunity to educate someone. Explain to children what a service dog does and why it is important not to interfere with the team’s work. Also explain that not all disabilities are obvious to others.

Do you have any other service dog etiquette suggestions? What experiences have you had with a service dog? Let us know in the comments.

Please SHARE this very important information with animal lovers everywhere!

Photos in video are from Blind Hippie Dog. Video created by Pet Pals. Above info from littleme

Most Popular Pet Posts of 2019!

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 16:16:55 GMT

As the year draws to a close, Pet Pals looks back over the the most popular blog posts of 2019.

We all love to read quality blogs. It is a great way to learn something new, something useful; or to be entertained. According to the latest statistics, there are millions of blog posts published every single day. Thank you for being here with Pet Pals and making these blog posts the most popular Pet Pals blog posts in 2019!

In no particular order:

All Things PUPPY!

Did you just bring your puppy home? Are you think about adding a puppy to your family? This is the blog post for you!

https://www.hirepetpals.com/top-things-puppies-need

To Heimlich Or Not

A dog choking can be very scary. It happens in a split second. Be prepared.

Because there are many signs that can be confusing to understand, it is especially important for dog owners to know the difference between these actions and actual dog choking signs. Often times, what may sound or look like choking, is actually an indication of another type of condition. For instance, many owners confuse when a canine is coughing gagging, reverse sneezing or vomiting to be signs a dog is choking when that actually is not the case. Being able to distinguish a minor issue from a potentially fatal one, will not only help to keep your own stress and panic to a minimum but your animal’s as well.

https://www.hirepetpals.com/to-heimlich-or-not

Pet Pals Enrichment Series

Pet Pals rolled out the Pet Pals Enrichment Series. This is an all encompassing series that teaches you how to help stimulate your dogs brain and keep them active inside, some people also call this brain games. Follow the hashtag #PetPalsEnrichmentSeries for all the post!!! When pets learn a new task that ends in the acquisition of food (i.e. work for their food); they receive mental enrichment and stimulation! That time and effort they spend with their use of both mental and physical skills is highly rewarding and builds great confidence.

For example, some toys require your dog to manipulate them to get a food reward. This provides the dog with opportunities to scavenge and explore and thus, requiring it to expend mental and physical energy to accomplish the task. In contrast, if your dog gets all its food from a food bowl, it does not have to work or use any energy to obtain the food.

https://www.hirepetpals.com/pet-pals-enrichment-series-workforfood-PetPalPenny

Professional Pet Sitter, Why It Matters

Many in the pet services industry distinguish a professional pet sitter from what they call a, “hobbyist sitter”. Amongst other things, it's often suggested that a professional pet sitter goes beyond their commitment to excellent pet care and maintains pet-sitter insurance and bonding, has any necessary local business licenses or permits, uses a pet-sitting service contract, offers proof of a clear criminal history and demonstrates their knowledge through industry certifications. While this concept is dated, it holds value still today and yet there remains room for improvement. Moreover, despite the massive growth of the Pet Sitting industry, there is still no regulatory authority that oversees whether a person is a *professional pet sitter* or “hobbyist sitter". While education, obtaining business license/permits, using a contract, providing background checks, insurance, and bonding certainly does show that a person is committed to being a professional, there still remains no legal definition or set of requirements. So, how Can You Tell the difference between a Professional Pet Sitter and a “Hobbyist”?

https://www.hirepetpals.com/professional-pet-sitter-why-it-matters

Losing A Pet

If you have suffered the loss of a pet, know someone who has, or unfortunately preparing for that day....please read on. Pet Pals also talks about the stages of grief in this post.

"A pet parent's worst fear is losing a beloved companion. For those who have experienced this loss, there is usually a poignant story to share about a cherished dog or cat’s passing. From one pet owner to another, we understand the intense pain and emptiness that occurs after this loss. There is no correct way to grieve and work through this process, as everyone walks down a different journey with a pet.

A pet may symbolize a child, sibling, best friend or long-term companion. Dogs and cats live an average of 13 years—enough time to truly enter and live in your heart. They become a part of your family and daily life. Your morning routine may not be complete without playing fetch or going on a walk with your dog or snuggling with your feline.

https://www.hirepetpals.com/losing-a-pet-hurts-so-much-honoring-traci

Top Places in Sioux Falls to Bring Your Dog With

https://www.hirepetpals.com/top-places-in-sioux-falls-sd-to-bring-your-dog-with

5 Reasons Why A Senior Pet

Talking about senior animals in this blog post. There are plenty of healthy, active older dogs hoping for a second chance at life. They end up homeless for many reasons, but many share one thing in common. They are overlooked for younger, cuter dogs, because face it…who doesn’t love puppies. They are adorable and they can’t wait to explore the world around them. It can be rewarding to raise a pup into a healthy, strong adult, but it requires a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with adopting a puppy, but there are a lot of great reasons for considering adopting an older dog. They need homes just as badly, and they can make loving, loyal companions.

https://www.hirepetpals.com/5-reasons-why-a-senior-pet

4 Types of Dog Walks

Pet Pals types of Dog Walking include:

1. Potty Walks - this type of walk has a simple purpose for the dog to go poop, potty, or both. When a dog gets on a walk the digestive system can get going and thus help the dog “go”. Smelling different scents can help the dog go potty as well. This walk is not intended to release any energy and is short in length.

2. Mentally Stimulating Walk - this type of walk allows your dog to stop, explore with their nose, mark scents to let other dogs know they were there, etc. Also known as “sending pee mail”, all of the aforementioned stimulus and more get the brain active. That active working brain burns a lot of energy. This type of walk typically ranges from 15-60 minutes.

3. Training Walks - these walks have an intended purpose of working on a goal. Whether that goal is to improve leash manners, take sit and stay to the next level in an uncontrolled environment (inside your house is a controlled environment), advance obedience commands, or help your reactive dog learn new skills; training walks are a very good way to burn energy! Make sure to ALWAYS end training walks on a positive note.

4. Power Walks - this walk is to help your dog (and maybe you) get the aerobic exercise we all need. Generally in this type of walk, there is no stopping to smell, pee, poop, or sniff. It is pure walking/jogging/running at a pace your dog and you are comfortable with to burn an overabundance amount of energy. On Power Walks it is very important to stay aware of your dogs tolerance to the high activity and not over do it. Still, these power walks can be a great starter to training walks!

All of these types of walks are important and help create a fulfilling, well rounded, and healthy life for your pet kids. You can incorporate them to increase your dog’s happiness or simply Hire Pet Pals! Your pets will thank you!

https://www.hirepetpals.com/no-april-fools-this-time

Pet Pals Mentorship Program!

For customized mentoring in your home, removing all unwanted outside barriers or distractions (until beneficial), and for Pet Pal’s unique approach to training. This Program tailors learning to the family’s needs and encourages every family member to participate in force free, positive reinforcement. As such, Pet Pals Mentorship Program has a higher success rate than other options.

Pet Pals’ Mentorship goes beyond teaching commands to dogs and provides education to the entire family. Each week of the program focuses on different commands and different educations, such as proper dog socialization, that are critical to the long-term successful human/dog family dynamic.

Our Expert Mentor does what works for you, your family, and your dog(s) to ensure we meet your specific needs. Additionally, we do this in your home , on your dog’s territory, and where everyone feels most comfortable, spends most of their time, and the environment is most relevant.

https://www.hirepetpals.com/pet-pals-mentorship-program

As we close out and celebrate 2019, we can once again reflect back on an amazing year. Pet Pals' mission to be the premier pet services company proudly serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding area and our core value to give back remained clear and consistent throughout 2019.

Over the years we've celebrated marriages, babies, new pets, new jobs, and so much more with Clients. Pet Pals has "saved the day" countless times and been with some families longer than most daycare providers, counselors, mentors, etc. 2019 continued the adventure and was a year of impressive numbers. This means driving over 30,000 miles with more than 3,600 dog walks, pet visits, and other Pet Pals’ services! To accomplish this; Pet Pals' was available 24/7 and worked countless hours being there when needed for everything from our services, to answering and solving your pet related questions/concerns, or just to let you in your house when you got locked out. Still, our greatest pride is in Pet Pals being a local family business and that for many of our Clients, this Pet Pals business is family!

In 2019, like each year before, Pet Pals went beyond unsurpassed service to people and their pets to also serve our Community. With a strong track record and commitment to our community and giving back, Pet Pals gives time and money in support of local people and pets. For example, Pet Pals’ "Help A Pet In Need" drive supporting local non profit agencies that work tirelessly at improving pet lives has raised around $15,000 in combined cash and other donations over the years with this year’s going to Sioux Empire Pit Rescue. Pet Pals also gives directly to people in our community through our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway. Pet Pals is involved and gives year-round to fundraisers, non-profits, being a animal foster family and more, because being the best for our Clients is simply not enough.

In 2019 people were busy, they lived and worked the lives they wanted, and still had that cared for and loved pet(s) that they want and deserve. More importantly, with Pet Pals in 2019, people had cared for and loved pets in a way that made their lives easier! At Pet Pals, we say “Your Pet will Thank you!” and surely they do; yet beyond that, Pet Pals thanks you! Thank you for your support. Thank you for the dreams you have, the motivation to see them become reality, and the will to maintain a high quality of life for your pet(s) at the same time. Thank you for being part of something that is making a positive difference in people’s and pet’s lives. With the hope that you are enjoying the holidays with family and friends while taking some time to relax and recharge, thank you for a fabulous 2019!

From reflection to repeat, Pet Pals has complete confidence in our ability to continue this momentum into 2020. Beyond continuing to be the best option for Pet Parents that want unsurpassed services exceeding their needs and supports their increasingly complex lifestyles; Pet Pals will continue to give back to our community. With 2019 ending yet another year of many in Pet Pals’ history and 2020 representing the first of many more years to come; Pet Pals looks forward to continue being a leader within our pet community, a positive part of our Clients lives, and making a meaningful difference to both! As such, we look forward to working with you on the opportunities that lie ahead in 2020. Here's to an amazing 2020 filled with ever loving and ever happier People and pets!

#HirePetPals #PetSitter #DogWalker #DogMentor #YourPetWillThankYou

2019 - Year in Retrospect!

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 23:24:25 GMT

Summary of 2019. Pet Pals significant events and how these have affected Sioux Falls and surrounding areas!

Dog Body Language - Decoded

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 02:55:41 GMT

Top misread dog body languages.

With Christmas Eve tomorrow, the hustle and bustle at its peak, and visitors coming over or maybe you are taking your dog to somebody's house. Think of all of the new smells, activities, noises, and people coming and going. Especially over the holidays, Pet Pals' Dog Mentorship Program wants to keep pets and kids safe and teaches families how to do just that. As such, lets briefly decode some dog body language. To many it is very surprising what their body language is telling us humans!

Any growl or snarl means I will bite soon: If a dog freezes - becomes suddenly stiff, stands with front legs splayed, head low, looking at you or the dog curls lip to show teeth. STOP what you are doing immediately. Look away, do not make eye contact and give the dog the opportunity to move away

Paw Lift means: Sometimes dogs are more overt when they feel anxious and want to remove themselves from a situation. Please don't force a dog to stay in situation in which he feels anxious, especially if children are the source of his anxiety.

Nose lick means: I am very worried, go away right now. Recognize Other Body Language Signs of Anxiety
*tail between legs
*tail low and only the end is wagging
*tail between legs and wagging
*tail down or straight for curly-tailed dog
*ears sideways for erect eared dog
*ears back and very rapid panting (as seen in the video below)
*dog goes into another room away from you and urinates or defecates

Yawning means: Please stop and leave me alone. Displacement behaviors are normal behaviors displayed out of context. They indicate conflict and anxiety. The dog wants to do something, but he is suppressing the urge to do it. He displaces the suppressed behavior with something else such as a lick or a yawn. For example, you are getting ready to go out and the dog hopes to go too. He is not sure what will happen next. He wants to jump on you or run out the door, but instead he yawns. The uncertainty of the situation causes conflict for the dog and the displacement behaviors are a manifestation of that conflict. The dog may want to bite a child who takes his bone, but instead he bites furiously at his own foot.

If a dog show sign of anxiety keep all kids and people he/she doesn’t know away. Give a toy or chew elsewhere.
• yawning when not tired
• licking chops without the presence of food
• sudden scratching when not itchy
• sudden biting at paws or other body part
• sudden sniffing the ground or other object
• dog shake when not wet or dirty

***Even placid friendly dogs can be stressed by a party. Parties can be very stressful for dogs. Give your dog a safe place to escape. Refraining guests from hugging and kissing your dog is always a great idea.

Here are some examples:
the dog gets up and leaves an uncomfortable situation (he may bite rather than leaving one of these days)
turning head away
hiding behind person or object
barking and retreating
the dog rolls over on back in submissive way (please don't hurt me!)

These are just some examples of things covered in Pet Pals' Mentorship Program. This program partners with you, your family, and your pet(s) to meet the needs of your lifestyle and your unique dog. Together we can help our dogs have an enjoyable Christmas also!

# HirePetPals # PetSitter # DogWalker # DogMentor # PetTaxi # YourPetWillThankYou

Thank you to Dog Gone on providing some of the wording included here.

Thank You! 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 18:51:04 GMT

Thank you for making this year's 12 Days of Christmas a success and a record breaking year!!

In wrapping up Pet Pals' 9th annual 12 Days of Christmas giveaway, I can't help but think of the multitude of gifts we've given to so many wonderful people over the years. This reminiscence brings great happiness and joy as thoughts follow from the beginning years to the, "it just wouldn't be Christmas without so many days of giving to so many people" tradition! Then, without fail each year, that happiness and joy turns to great appreciation and thankfulness to the many people that participate in the giveaway and support Pet Pals.

Thank you for making this year's 12 Days of Christmas a success and a record breaking year in terms of participation and engagement. Thank you for your support of Pet Pals and our work of improving people's and pet's lives! Please continue to follow Pet Pals and interact with our fun, educational, and informative posts, blog, giveaways, and more! Merry Christmas and have an amazing 2019 finale!

This year the 12 Days of Giving supported: Sioux Empire Pit Rescue, Sioux Falls Area Humane Society, Woofs 7 Waves, and Sew Doggie Boutique!

Who is Pet Pals?

Pet Pals provides professional pet care services that are sure to meet the needs for you and your pet kid. We understand the stress of leaving town without the family pet, busy schedules, and how much work a new puppy including how often they need to go out to go potty. More importantly, we work around the clock to eliminate those unnecessary stresses for you.

What does Pet Pals offer?

In Your Home Pet Sitting

Dog Walking

Pet Taxi

Dog Mentorship

Please keep Pet Pals in mind for your pet care, training, and transportation needs! Thank you for recommendation to friends and family!

Your Pet Will Thank You!!!

Day 12- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 15:07:24 GMT

Pet Pals 12 Days of Giving!

On the first day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the second day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the third day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me
Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the fourth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me
Sew Doggie Day, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the fifth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me
Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the sixth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me
Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the seventh day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the eighth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Travel Luggage, No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the ninth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Squirrel toy and food puzzle, Travel Luggage, No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the tenth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,

Woofs & Waves, Squirrel toy and food puzzle, Travel Luggage, No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the eleventh day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Echo Dot, Woofs & Waves, Squirrel toy and food puzzle, Travel Luggage, No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

On the twelfth day of Christmas Pet Pals gave to me,
Drone with a camera, Echo Dot, Woofs & Waves, Squirrel toy and food puzzle, Travel Luggage, No Peeking and Keychain, Plaque and Necklace, Build a Dog House, Pound for Like, Google Home Mini and Socks & a Tea Infuser.

You just sang that correctly!! The final day of Pet Pals 12 Days of Giving is a DRONE with a camera!!!! WOOF, WOOOHOOOO, YES, YAY <insert all the excitement>!!!!!

Product Description from website:
Explore the skies above at the speed of lightning. Drone with Wi-Fi Camera. Fly fast, weave in and out of obstacles, and perform 360 degree flips and tricks with ease (headless mode and altitude hold). With the built-in WiFi camera you can capture every daring flight and share it with your friends

360° flips & tricks
6-axis gyroscope for stable hovering and flying
3 speeds: low, medium, high
0.3MP WiFi camera with 480x640 resolution
2.4GHz remote control
4-channel direction control for improved stability & usability
Control distance: up to 328 feet
Headless mode
Altitude hold
LED navigation lights
Free app for first person viewing, capturing video and photos, on screen info, and more
Stream live video to your smartphone or VR goggles
DC battery power: removable, rechargeable lithium polymer battery
Operating time: 6-8 minutes (per battery)
Charge time: 120 minutes
Remote control: requires 4 AA batteries (not included)
Phone holder
USB cable
2 replacement rotors
Screwdriver

For 9 extra entries into the drawing head back to Pet Pals Facebook page and/or Instagram ( will have to mention @HirePetPals) under Day 12 post place a pic of your pet kids! Cannot wait for all the cuteness!!!!

Who is Pet Pals?

What does Pet Pals offer?

In Your Home Pet Sitting

Dog Walking

Pet Taxi

Dog Mentorship

Day 11- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 15:42:48 GMT

Hey Alexa Call Pet Pals!

I, Pet Pal Keli, personally read through each post about your favorite Christmas memory and each one made me smile! Thank you for sharing and thank you for being here with Pet Pals on Day 11. I will admit, I am bummed that tomorrow is the last day of the giveaways. Pet Pals loves seeing you on our Facebook , Instagram, and Blog page everyday! Who wants to WIN a Echo Dot (3rd Gen) - Smart speaker with Alexa - Charcoal?!

Today is going to be a biggie for extra entries! Over on Pet Pals homepage is a place where you can subscribe to Pet Pals emails (pending your browser or cell phone you may have to scroll down a tad, look to the right)! Don't worry,Pet Pals is responsible and respectful with your email. We will not sell or give your email to other people and will not spam you. After you submit your email address you will receive 15 extra entries into the drawing!!!! WOAH 15 exrta entires !!!!! Be sure to head back to Pet Pals Facebook page and/or Instagram and tell us " WOOF for Pet Pals Email! " that way we know who you are for the giveaway!

Who is Pet Pals?

What does Pet Pals offer?

In Your Home Pet Sitting

Dog Walking

Pet Taxi

Dog Mentorship

Day 10- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 15:28:25 GMT

Woofs & Waves!!!!

Since the beginning of time, our friends at Woofs & Waves have been supporter of the Pet Pals giveaways!!! They spoil us each and every year, this year is no different. LOOK at all this goodness PLUS a $20 gift card. WOW WOW WOW!!!

Woofs & Waves is a Pet & Aquarium Supply Store that is locally owned and operated by an amazing couple. They offer products for all household pets and aquariums and have the largest selection of freshwater, saltwater and cichlids in town! Pet Pals loves to support local small business we hope you do too and will check them out for all your SantaPaws and Fish needs this holiday season. They have some of the toys on Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide !

For 7 additional entries into the drawing head back to Pet Pals Facebook page or on Instagram (with #HirePetPals)and share about your favorite Christmas memory!

Please note this will be local pick up.

Fun event! Mark your calendars! Woofs & Waves, Merry Grinchmas Saturday December 14th from 12-4

Day 9- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 16:05:32 GMT

Top Dog Gift Giving Guide!!!

Did you see a couple weeks past Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide?! If you need ideas for SantaPaws look no further! Pet Pals did lots of researching at many different options! We came up with the Top 12 Gifts For Dogs!

For that:
hard to buy for pup
the pup that has everything
the pup that destroys toys
the pup that loves toys
the picky pup

Look no further!

Here is another awesome deal! There will be TWO WINNERS today!!!! What the WHAT!!! Pet Pals has never done this prior and seems like a good day to try it out! Watch the video below and head back to Pet Pals Facebook page or Instagram and tell us what your pup would like from the Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide! Pet Pals has picked TWO toys off the list (pictured above), the two winners will be sent one of the toys! How FUN is that?! So excited!!! If you share the Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide video on your personal Facebook page and place a screenshot in the comments under Day 9 on Pet Pals Facebook page, you will receive 8 additional entries into the drawing! Here at Pet Pals we really hold the honor policy close, so please don't pull a dirty and delete the post right after you screenshot. We do want to add, none of products in the Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide are paid sponsorship's, Pet Pals gets zero dollars should you purchase a product.

Here is a link to the blog post as well about the Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide !

Day 8- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 20:49:09 GMT

Travel Luggage Organizers

This time of year and in the cold winter months for all the travels, these luggage organizers will come in super handy! Pet Pal Keli LOVES these!!! Not only for travel, you can use these in the car, to store items, the options are endless as these dandy organizers help to eliminate the use of plastic (something dear to Pet Pal Keli's heart)! Due to the weight of this package, if winner needs this shipped (out of Pet Pals core service area) then the Winner will be responsible fully for shipping and handling charges, please take this into account when entering into the giveaway.

For 7 additional entries into the drawing head back to Pet Pals Facebook page or on Instagram (with #HirePetPals)and share your favorite Christmas cookie/sweet!

Product description:

6 Set Packing Cubes, Travel Luggage Organizers with Laundry Bag & Shoe Bag

Nylon lining
Zipper closure
Do you love to travel? – are you tired of fumbling inside your luggage and unpacking everything to look for an item the same old way? Concerned you will leave expensive items in the hotel? Use packing cubes to sort, organize and find your things in a flash. Say goodbye to all your travel woes!
THESE CUBES ARE 26% THICKER - We‘ve tested the other packing cubes on the market for thickness and durability. Compared to their 230D nylon or different polyester fabrics, we construct our packing cubes with 290D nylon fabrics - much thicker and more resistant, allowing you to use them every day.
WATERPROOF FABRIC – Another benefit of our packing cubes: they will prevent your items from getting wet. These cubes keep your stuff dry even if your suitcase or backpack gets wet.
An exclusive, innovative design - EVA is a new, packaging material that is waterproof, sturdy and recyclable. We even stamp a unique logo on each cube to identify what is inside - saving you time to locate what you are looking for in seconds!
Suitable for every occasion - these packing cubes can help to reduce clothing wrinkles by preventing movement Inside the suitcase. Imagine 1 piece of luggage for every item, or use one packing cube per group and compress them all in one bag. Ideal for family vacations, business trips, outdoor camping, and daily storage.

Day 7- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 7- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 01:29:09 GMT

No Peeking!

To all who came to the open house today at Dirty Dog, you have placed a huge smile on our faces! This community knows how to support pets in need! Sioux Empire Pit Rescue and fosters, you were a gem to be with today!!! Dirty Dog, thank you for everything and all the laughs! Check out this video about how much fun was had !!!!

Day 7!! No Peeking plaque with a "I love dogs" key chain! Super CUTE!!!! The key chain was purchased at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society and all proceeds went back to the shelter!

For 6 additional entries into the drawing head back to Pet Pals Facebook page or on Instagram share how many pet kids you have in your house! (yes fish, guinea pigs, reptiles, horses ect count!) Pet Pal Keli has 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 fish tanks, and 2 Guinea Pigs (2 must be the magical number, lol)!

Day 6- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Sat, 07 Dec 2019 01:00:49 GMT

It Tasted Important!

We are half way through the 12 days of giving. What a blast this has been! The next 6 days will be worth sticking around for!! Have you ever bought something for someones else and thought, I should have bought two one for me and one for them. This is totally Pet Pals this year!!!

Today's giveaway is a plaque and a beautiful necklace that was purchased at a craft fair at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society ! Yesterday all the pictures of kids and their pets, heartwarming. Thank you dearly for sharing!!!! All of us at Pet Pals were smiling!!! Today for extra 5 entries in the drawing describe or show a picture of your favorite ornament on Pet Pals Facebook Page or tag Pet Pals #HirePetPals on Instagram ! Thank you for being here and supporting Pet Pals!

TOMORROW please stop by the open house, FREE Nail Trims and a gift bag from Pet Pals valued over 40 for every donation tomorrow!!!!! Wish list items or to see some happy faces that are glad to out of danger watch the vid below. 6 year and counting for Pet Pals Help A Pet In Need Drive!

Day 5- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Day 5- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 00:11:25 GMT

Build a Dog House

Day 5 is for the kids who love dogs!!! Fat Brain Toys has these really awesome kits where your child can build things! Pet Pals seen that a local store here in Sioux Falls called Elegant Mommy had these kits and without any doubt knew this would be great for the giveaways! Pet Pals loves to support small and local businesses!

Here the product description from Fat Brain toys:
he blueprint becomes the building with these clever build-it sets!

On one side of each precision-cut puzzle piece is the blueprint - complete with measurements - while on the other side is the colorful exterior.

Choose the doghouse, the birdhouse, or if you're feeling really ambitious, the cabin, or the barn. Then, follow the blueprints like a real architect and build like a real builder!

Classic chunky puzzle fun takes on a new dimension of learning with the Build It Blueprint Puzzles.

Build It Blueprint Puzzles

3D chunky puzzles featuring fun blueprint designs

Encourages fine motor skills, spatial reasoning, logic, concentration, imaginative play

Chunky puzzles have gone 3D!

Puzzle pieces printed with blueprint design on one side, colorful exterior on the other

Choose the Dog House or Birdhouse for an easier puzzle

Choose the Cabin or Barn for a more challenging puzzle

Includes one Build It Blueprint Puzzle

Puzzle pieces fit into slots of included storage board when not in use

Made of high quality wood materials - Lasting durability

For 6 additional entries into the drawing head back to Pet Pals Facebook page or on Instagram (with #HirePetPals)and share a picture of our human child and pup child together! Cannot wait for all of this cuteness!

Day 4- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 15:38:33 GMT

Handmade Dog Accessories from Pet Pals friends at Sew Doggie!

WOW!!! Giving Tuesday gave us all the feels! Over 240 POUNDS of dog food/treats will be donated to Sioux Empire Pit Rescue! That is lots of food bowls that will be filled because of your caring heart!

My does Pet Pals have a treat for you today! Our friends over at Sew Doggie has an amazing prize package for you! $20 to spend however you would like on their dog accessories, treats, and dog toys! The handsome pup model, well.....sadly he is not part of the giveaway.

For 7 extra entries into the drawing answer the following on Pet Pals Facebook page and/or Instagram page: What is your favorite family Christmas tradition?

Have an amazing Hump Day!

ps. Don't forget about the open house that supports Sioux Empire Pit Rescue this Saturday!

Day 3- 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 16:12:03 GMT

Sioux Empire Pit Rescue!

Today is Giving Tuesday!! In honor of that, today's giveaway will be all about giving to a local rescue organization!

Here is YOUR chance to give to Pet Pals Help A Pet In Need recipient, Sioux Empire Pit Rescue without spending a penny!!! ****Simply "LIKE" the post where you see the above picture on either Pet Pals Facebook page or Pet Pals Instagram Page and for every LIKE together Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa will donate a pound of food and/or treats off of their wish list! Easy as that!

Share and Tag away, encourage your friends to LIKE above picture!! How many pounds of food/treats can we get to?!

Please join in at the Open House for the Help A Pet In Need this Saturday! Below is additional information about this drive for

Sioux Empire Pit Rescue !!

Day 2 - 9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 15:23:35 GMT

Google Home Mini!

Thank you all for such a great kick off to the 12 Days of Giving! You had everyone at Pet Pals smiling, we are feeling the love!

You ready for Day 2?!!! Google Home Mini is up for grabs!!! Same rules apply (posted below).

***You will want to make sure you are a fan of Pet Pals Facebook page by clicking "Like" if you are playing there. If you are playing on Pet Pals Instagram page you will need tobe sure you click "Follow"! Yes, you can play on both! Pet Pals doesn't has many rules because we want this fun for all, however, we do have this as one of the requirements. Thank You!

For 5 extra entries into the drawing answer the following question on Pet Pals Facebook page or Instagram page......... "What is your favorite Christmas song?" Pet Pal Keli's all time favorite Christmas song is Mary, Did You Know and almost tied is Sliver Bells. I could play these two songs on repeat!

Pet Pals Friendly Reminder: The Holiday Season should be a fun time for all, pets included, but many pet parents are stressed out this time of year. If you don’t work on decreasing your stress levels for your own sake, perhaps you will do it for your dog or cat. Your stress levels truly affects your pets.

JadynRose Elaine Haddock - You are the WINNER of Day 1! Please send an email to info@HirePetPals.com to claim your prize. Subject should read DAY 1 WINNER and please include your mailing address. Thank you all for participating!

Pet Pals Help A Pet In Need is currently going on! Your donations are highly needed and warmly welcomed and will benefit
Sioux Empire Pit Rescue ! Thank you Dirty Dog for hosting this with us, you are a gem!!! Come see us this Saturday for the open house!
FREE DOG NAIL TRIMS and a goodie bag valued $50 (or more) from Pet Pals with all donations from the wish list.
This is our way of saying THANK YOU!

9th Annual Pet Pals 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 16:33:43 GMT

Day 1

Welcome!!! Welcome to Pet Pals 9th Annual 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways!!! We are so beyond excited to have you here! Please check back each day to see what the new giveaway will be. Pet Pals will post each day to Pet Pals Facebook page, Instagram, and here on the Blog! You can enter to WIN on each platform! Here we GO!!!! Up for grabs on Day 1 are these really super comfy, shea-infused lounge, non-skid bottom socks from Bath & Body Works! Also included is dog themed, stainless steel tea infuser! WOOF!!!!

For 5 additional entries into the drawing, go back to Pet Pals Facebook and/or Instagram page and tell us what your favorite flavor of tea is!

Top 12 Gifts for Dogs!

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 15:35:34 GMT

Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide

Pet Pals sifted through the vast marketplace of dog toys to find the best and created a Pet Pals Dog Gift Giving Guide for all the pup’s preferred style of play—fetching, chewing, tugging, or riddling out a treat.

As a dog parent or simply someone shopping for a dog friend or relative; it is important to understand the physical benefits of exercise for the dog as well as the intellectual benefits of your interaction with them. Toys are a great way to provide this mental stimulation while also spending time with your dog and strengthening the bond.

A good dog toy will amuse your dog for a little while and a great dog toy will keep them busy. Choosing the perfect dog toy is about finding something your dog likes that will also stand up to some rough play and maybe some heavy chewing. Not all dog toys are created equal, and each dog has their own unique preferences.

Look for these toys at your local pet shop! Support Local!!!

Dirty Dog Spa

EarthWise Pet / Sioux Falls

Your Pet Stop

1. Haute Diggity Dog Muttini Bar Collection

These unique squeaky plush toys are a great gift idea for that friend who has a favorite beverage. From vodka and beer to La Croix, dogs can join their owner for a “dogmestic” or “impawted” beverage.

Price:

$13.99

2. Outward Hound Interactive Puzzle Toy – Plush Hide and Seek Activity for Dogs

Hide a Squirrel Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy There are so many ways to play with this plush dog puzzle, you and your pet will be entertained for hours! Featuring a soft tree trunk with openings for soft and cuddly stuffed squirrel dog toys, this Hide a Squirrel puzzle game will challenge your dog to locate and remove the plush toys inside. They added squeakers to each plush squirrel dog toy to make the hunt and play activity irresistible to any canine. Ideal for use as a boredom-busting dog toy, the cuddly stuffed toys are also awesome interactive dog play toys for chasing and fetching – get your dog to bring them back and stuff them in the trunk again for even more fun. Lovable cuddly toys for dogs are tough and durable, so you can have hours of interactive play time with your pooch. Combining squeaking, hunting, cuddling and fetching in one awesome dog puzzle toy, Hide & Squeak Squirrel is bound to become your best friend’s favorite activity.

Price: 7.99

3. Chuckit! Sport Launcher Dog Ball Thrower

Terrific way to exercise your dog without wearing yourself out with the Chuckit Classic Launcher! Throw tennis balls 2 or 3 times as far with the Ball Launcher. Hands-free pick-up – no more slobbery tennis balls. Features an ergonomic handle for the ultimate comfort and control. Made from durable lightweight flexible plastic. Comes in a variety of throwing ranges and ball sizes. Use with standard tennis balls or Chuckit! compatible balls only.

Price: 8.72

4. Snuffle Mat

ENGAGE YOUR DOG’S SENSE OF SMELL - Puts your dog’s nose and brain to work by mimicking the hunt for food in nature.

SIMPLY CHALLENGING - Encourages natural foraging skills.

EASY-TO-FILL FEEDING MAT - Fun-to-use design and durable construction.

MACHINE WASHABLE - Sustainably handmade from a combination of virgin and upcycled materials

PERFECT FOR ALL DOGS - Any breed, any age, any size, all dogs and even potbelly pigs will love it!

Price: 39.95

5. Dog Smart Beginner Dog Puzzle Toy

A great way to introduce your pup to problem solving and dog puzzle games, Dog Smart is a level 1 treat dispensing dog game to keep your canine busy, happy and mentally engaged, and to prepare them for more complex level 2 & 3 puzzle games in the future.

The simple hide and seek dog treat dispenser game features a plastic puzzle board with 9 bone covers which must be removed before dispensing the hidden treats – choose to place them flush with the board or slightly elevated for different challenge levels.

This interactive dog game provides a mentally stimulating and entertaining challenge for your dog and hours of fun for owners. It’s an ideal boredom buster and puzzle feeder dog toys are a great way to slow down meal times. Every good dog’s toy box needs a treat dispensing dog toy to keep dogs busy and distracted from potentially destructive behaviors.

Price: $11.99

6. Kong Wobbler Dispensing

Suits almost every pooch and provides entertainment for hours. It is an action-packed treat and food dispensing toy which can provide a full meal with a side of fun.

The Wobbler dog toy comes in a variety of sizes for puppies to senior-aged dogs. It contains enough strength to supply instant energy in your dog’s body. The Kong crafted from rubber with long size about 7.5 inches. Many owners like to fill this toy with frozen peanut butter as a substitute for the regular meal or feel interested to keep their dogs entertained for hours during the workday.

The random movement of the toy keeps it challenging to dogs. So, it’s a great and interesting way to keep your dog busy. You can also be used this toy as an alternative tool of exercising for your dog. Dog owners especially appreciate this toy while their pooches get a great mental workout during play time. The easy screwing system makes it flexible and easy for cleaning and filling.

Price: 19.79

7. Goughnuts

The Goughnuts Interactive dog toy is specially designed for larger dogs. It is interactive, tough, durable and large sized dog toy which ensures extreme safety level and fun gaming while playing.

Structurally, the Tug is 11 inches high, 6 inches wide and 1.5 inches cross-sectioned. They used rubber formulated recipe is super dense, very pliable and chewy which also helps to save your dogs from health injury. It bends completely without apparent stress on the joints.

Price: $27.95

8. IQ Treat Ball Interactive Food Dispensing Dog Toy

Its design allows kibble or treats to be placed inside the ball. Then, as your pet rolls it around and plays with it, food is dispensed. In other words, your pooch gets the exercise he or she needs and gets rewarded for it! This treat ball also twists apart for easy cleaning, which can be especially important when food is involved. It is made of strong, durable plastic and is completely non-toxic.

This ball comes in two sizes and is ideal for small to medium dogs. Features adjustable difficulty levels, which makes it accessible for even less-than-smart canines. This feature also makes it possible to make the puzzle harder as your dog gets better at it, encouraging your dog to play with the ball even after they’ve figured out how it works.

Price: $12.29

9. FurryFido Interactive Treat Dispensing Soccer Ball Dog Chew Toy

An interactive dog toy is simply a dog toy that is mentally and physically stimulating. This purpose is different from your standard tennis ball or a squeaky toy, which only encourage chewing and physical play. The key to an interactive dog toy is that it promotes your pet’s mental capabilities by providing a puzzle of some sort.

Price: 15.99

10. Flossy Chews Cottonblend

The Mammoth Flossy Chews Cotton Blend 3-Knot Rope Tug is made from 100 percent natural cotton rope fibers that actually clean your dog's teeth with a floss-like action as they chew and play with the toy. This 3-knot rope tug is made for durability and safety, perfect for long games of tug-of-war. It is also particularly well-suited to the demands of heavy chewers and teething puppies.

Not only is this Mammoth Flossy Chews Cotton Blend Rope Tug built strong to last for hours of play, but it features a three-knot design. These knots give you an easy hand hold during games of tug and also provide your dog with something to hold on to for carrying the toy around. You'll also love the fact that this rope tug is very colorful and it comes in five sizes from mini to extra-large.

Price: 4.90

11. Flyber

FLYBER is a very noteworthy dog toy as it is perfect for outdoor fun whether your at the dog park or in your own backyard. It is made from non-toxic material which would not cause any food poisoning or affect any dogs with allergies. The only downside to this toy is it should only be used when you are together with your pup as it is not meant for chewing and can be destroyed if your dog chews on it for too long.

Price: $19.00

12. Tether Tug Interactive Dog Rope Toy

The Tether Tug is perfect for outdoor play as it provides the exercise a healthy pup needs, as well as strengthening a dogs agility, and activating their teeth through tug of war play. What is very unique about the Tether Tug is that your pup can play on their own without the need for you to pull on the other end of the rope.

Another wonderful feature of the Tether Tug is that they have created multiple options for different size dogs and breeds. Since the Tether Tug is available for dogs of all sizes, and is perfect for keeping your dog healthy and giving them the outdoor excitement.

Price: 38.21

Look for these toys at your local pet shop! Support Local!!!

5 Reasons Why A Senior Pet

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 15:54:55 GMT

November is Senior Pet Month and Adopt a Senior Pet!

Bringing our attention on our seniors. Many of your know I, Pet Pal Keli, have a really big soft spot for seniors, animals and human. One person can learn so much from a senior. Since November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month and Senior Pet Month, we will be talking about senior animals this blog post. There are plenty of healthy, active older dogs hoping for a second chance at life. They end up homeless for many reasons, but many share one thing in common. They are overlooked for younger, cuter dogs, because face it…who doesn’t love puppies. They are adorable and they can’t wait to explore the world around them. It can be rewarding to raise a pup into a healthy, strong adult, but it requires a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with adopting a puppy, but there are a lot of great reasons for considering adopting an older dog. They need homes just as badly, and they can make loving, loyal companions.

As you look to adopt a dog, consider the more mature canine residents at your local shelter or foster based rescue. When you choose an adult dog, you skip the craziness of the puppy phase. You'll also be surprised how easily adult dogs can integrate into a new family.

Here are 5 good reasons to consider a Senior Dog!

You ARE Their Hero! You’re fighting for the value and beauty of life at all ages and stages. Less Demanding! Daily walks, subtle playtime, and lots of nuggles and cuddles are in order!
Often already potty trained! Can I get a YES please!
Limited Surprises! You won’t be guessing how big they will get, easier to decide if they will fit into your family. Just to name a few.
Companionship! They have their puppy wiggles out!

BEST FOR LAST!

5.Senior Dogs DO learn New Tricks! Dogs learn at any age, really it’s true!

If you're planning to take days off during the holidays, it's an excellent time to consider adopting one and making the new family addition truly special. The time-off will allow you to bond and help your new bestie become part of your family's routines.

If you’re going to bring home a new dog, it’s important to educate yourself so you can give the dog time to adjust to their new surroundings and family. Observe your new dog to get familiar with their personality, likes, and dislikes and to see how your dog is communicating with you.

A kind, understanding attitude helps them make the adjustment with ease and comfort. The privilege of loving an older dog can make every day special.

Pet Pals Pet Care Experts - loving every senior pet we care for! Your Pet Will Thank You!

10 Tips For a Pet Friendly 4th of July!

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 20:00:31 GMT

While watching and/or lighting fireworks, grilling, and all the ways we celebrate our great country with friends and family are relaxing and fun to us; not all of the things we enjoy about Independence Day are necessarily as much fun for our four-legged friends. Additionally, we often love for our pets to do what we do, however and while you may want to invite your dog(s) or other pets to join in the festivities, check out these tips first before including them in this holiday and then do what's best for your pet. Your pet will thank you!

Loud noises and large crowds can be scary for animals, making fireworks not really their thing. According to the American Humane Society, the 5th of July is the busiest day of the year for most shelters.

Ensuring your dog(s) outside are attended and/or leashed is especially important around the 4th. Many say it is best to have your pets inside well before it gets dark. Even outdoor cats should be brought inside for the night. Also, helping to ensure your pet(s) feel safe from the loud noises and flashes of light while inside is always a great idea too.

If you know that your pets are startled by loud noises, then have someone stay at home with them if you end up leaving the house to celebrate the holiday.

Close up your house - scared animals are great escape artists and will find a way out.

To lessen the startling boom of fireworks, leave on the TV or radio for background noise.

Make sure your animals are wearing ID tags and if they're microchipped that the information is up to date.

Contact a veterinarian before the holiday if you believe your pets should be have medication.

If you do lose your pet, don't wait to start looking. Knock on doors, call your local shelter, and post lost pet notices on social media pages.

Don't leave alcoholic beverages where animals can reach them. Pets get drunk too and it's not fun or safe for them.

Keep matches, lighter fluid, and citronella products out of reach. All contain chemicals that can be dangerous for pets should be unattainable by them.

Glow jewelry can be fun for after-dark festivities, but they don't mix well with pets. The luminescent chemicals can cause gastrointestinal irritation and you don't want them eating the plastic tubing and connectors either.

Remember your pets this 4th while celebrating our nation's birth and all the greatness that makes us Americans. Remember too that fireworks aren't the only Fourth of July issue to consider. Keep an eye on your pet(s) all day long and everyone is sure to have a blast!

Top Places in Sioux Falls, SD to bring your dog with!

Fri, 31 May 2019 00:47:34 GMT

Who doesn’t love showing off their dogs in public and even better; experiencing the world beyond their yard with their beloved pup kids? To assist with this, Pet Pals has compiled a list of top dog friendly places in Sioux Falls!

Who doesn’t love showing off their dogs in public and even better; experiencing the world beyond their yard with their beloved pup kids? To assist with this, Pet Pals has compiled a list of top dog friendly places in Sioux Falls! As fun as these times out and about with the pup(s) are, it's important to be thoughtful and plan ahead for everyone's benefit. For example, if your dog is NOT stranger (dog or human) friendly, then actually consider not bringing them. If you are training your puppy for socialization, then it is important to consider where they are in the training and to remember that other dogs and humans can be very scary. Moreso, remember that such scares can be a huge setbacks in the training process. Of course, always be certain your dog is up to date on all vacations. Simple, yet thoughtful considerations like these can help maximize everyone's enjoyment.

Lewis

Northview Bait Shop

Ace Hardware

Oh My Cupcakes (patio only)

Posh boutique

Josias ( they water and dog bones for your pup kid(s)!)

Coffea

Bed Bath and Beyond

Home Depot

Lowe’s

Woodgrain

Remedy Brewing

Monk's

Fernson (patio only)

Fogies Liquor

The Source

Buffalo Ridge Brewing in Hartford

Tractor Supply Company

TheCrookedPint (patio only)

Campbells

Scheels

Sioux Falls Ford

Granite City (patio only)

Pro tip: Each store has their own pet policy that can change at anytime. It is always a good idea to call ahead to ensure your dog can attend with you prior to going. ENJOY! WOOF!

This woman left her blind dog with a Rover sitter, then found out it fell two stories off a balcony

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 21:18:16 GMT

Dog Walking Apps Concerns

We are always heartbroken to hear stories like this. Finding a professional and insured professional pet sitter is more important than ever, and Pet Pals is here to help ensure the safety of your pet family members. Next time you or a friend are in need of a pet sitter, please contact proven and trusted Pet Pals. You can find more about Pet Pals on our website at www.HirePetPals.com or call/text 605-999-1355

Below sited from cbsnews.com

"Last Updated Apr 17, 2019 3:46 PM EDT

Wag and Rover, nicknamed the "Uber for dogs" and "dog bnb," offer on-demand dog walking and dog sitting services through your phone. The popular apps have made it easier than ever to find someone to walk and watch your pets, but a growing number of reports of dogs being mistreated are raising new questions about how well these apps screen their walkers and sitters.

Colleen Nolan blames Rover for the death of her dog. Nolan told CBS News' Chip Reid she built her life around her 12-year-old Japanese chin named Mooshu, adopted at eight weeks old. When a work trip came up last year, Nolan said she was worried about leaving him, Mooshu was not just old, he was blind.

Couple says their dog died while with a walker from a popular app, claims company tried to cover it up

"He was the one dog that was meant for me," Nolan said. "I wanted to make sure that he was comfortable in his surroundings. That he stayed in the home. So I reached out to Rover to try to find a sitter."

Rover and Wag advertise "rigorous screening" and "background checks." Nolan says she chose a Rover sitter who had badges on her profile for working with senior and special needs dogs. Nolan said she gave the sitter specific instructions: Mooshu was to be taken out of the house only for short walks. Those instructions, she later learned when she got an emergency text from the sitter, were ignored.

"I called her and I said 'what happened?' And she said Moosh fell off my porch," Nolan said. "I said, 'What do you mean ' your porch?'"

According to Nolan, the sitter then told her that Mooshu had fallen two stories. Rover, she said, offered to cover half of the expenses following Mooshu's death including vet bills, cremation and the cost of a new dog, totaling $2,600, but with one condition: sign a strict confidentiality agreement. Nolan says she "never called them back."

Rover advertises that fewer than 20 percent of sitters who apply are accepted. They say all must pass a background check and be approved by a team of specialists.

"I thought that with Rover saying that they only select a small few and that they hand review each one of these sitters that clearly those badges had to mean that they vetted that," Nolan said.

Nolan's is not the only case. CBS News spoke to 14 families who say their dogs died while in the care of Rover or Wag sitters. Twelve of those incidents involved Rover sitters. One user said she discovered her Rover sitter had a criminal record and users of both apps told us they were also asked to sign non-disclosure agreements following incidents.

In December, a Wag walker was caught on surveillance video kicking and intimidating a dog. The Better Business Bureau is currently investigating Wag over claims made in their advertisements, including that walkers are "vetted through a rigorous screening process."

In a statement to CBS News, Wag told us that in addition to background checks, they collect real-time information through the app to regularly assess walkers. Rover told us sitters must also provide photos, testimonials and pass a safety quiz.

Pet care industry experts such as Carmen Rustenbeck say the industry is beginning to adopt more regulations, but for now, pet owners should be looking for pet care providers with professional licenses.

"Just pasting a badge on the website is not going to work anymore, they're going to have to back that up with some kind of training," Rustenback said. "If you had a child, would you just accept a person on an app to take care of your child? Or would you do more investigation? And that's what I encourage all pet owners to do."

Rover and Wag told us that incidents like Nolan's are "rare" but declined to provide exact numbers. In a document obtained by CBS News from a lawsuit against Rover in California, the app says they don't keep track on their platform of how many dogs have died. They also told us that the well-being of pets is their "top priority" and they are "continually working to improve safety."

Wag told us that they are "committed to constantly improving their service" and "care deeply about the safety" of dogs."

No April Fool's This Time!

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 02:59:43 GMT

In our April Fool's post Pet Pals joked about offering a new service focused on Human Walking. The types of walking in the post, when applied to dogs of course, are the actual types offered by Pet Pals and the types of dog walking that add purpose!

In our April Fool's post Pet Pals joked about offering a new service focused on Human Walking. The types of walking in the post, when applied to dogs of course, are the actual types offered by Pet Pals and the types of dog walking that add purpose!

Pet Pals types of Dog Walking include:

1. Potty Walks - this type of walk has a simple purpose for the dog to go poop, potty, or both. When a dog gets on a walk the digestive system can get going and thus help the dog “go”. Smelling different scents can help the dog go potty as well. This walk is not intended to release any energy and is short in length.

2. Mentally Stimulating Walk - this type of walk allows your dog to stop, explore with their nose, mark scents to let other dogs know they were there, etc. Also known as “sending pee mail”, all of the aforementioned stimulus and more get the brain active. That active working brain burns a lot of energy. This type of walk typically ranges from 15-60 minutes.

3. Training Walks - these walks have an intended purpose of working on a goal. Whether that goal is to improve leash manners, take sit and stay to the next level in an uncontrolled environment (inside your house is a controlled environment), advance obedience commands, or help your reactive dog learn new skills; training walks are a very good way to burn energy! Make sure to ALWAYS end training walks on a positive note.

4. Power Walks - this walk is to help your dog (and maybe you) get the aerobic exercise we all need. Generally in this type of walk, there is no stopping to smell, pee, poop, or sniff. It is pure walking/jogging/running at a pace your dog and you are comfortable with to burn an overabundance amount of energy. On Power Walks it is very important to stay aware of your dogs tolerance to the high activity and not over do it. Still, these power walks can be a great starter to training walks!

All of these types of walks are important and help create a fulfilling, well rounded, and healthy life for your pet kids. You can incorporate them to increase your dog’s happiness or simply Hire Pet Pals! Your pets will thank you!

SO MUCH POOP

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 14:11:06 GMT

With the warm up coming, for some it means....a backyard loaded with poop. Pet Pals did the research for you! Here is a list of companies that clean up poop!

First day of spring, welcome!

With the warm up coming, for some it means....a backyard loaded with poop. Are you a, let's rally the troops and as a family we will get this cleaned up? Or are you, I would rather pay someone to clean this up. Pet Pals has seen many posts looking for companies who do poop cleanups. We did the research for you! Here is a list that we complied.

1. POO-PATROL
According to their website, 1 FREE weekly cleaning for all new clients! There are no contracts to sign. Licensed and insured professional pooper scooper service in Sioux Falls. AND 20% OFF Spring Cleaning!

Poo-Patrol
Sioux Falls, SD
605.336.2587 | info@mypoopatrol.com
http://www.mypoopatrol.com

2. Affordable Lawn & Snow

(605) 370-1011
http://www.lawncareinsiouxfallssd.com/pet-waste-removal/

3. Doo Gooders
Looks like they have a special for spring cleanup as well! $25 off if you sign up for their Spring Special 2019. Taken right from their website, "The Spring Clean Special 2019 requires autopay. Service continues after that at our standard rate."

scooper@doogooders.com
605-951-1176
https://www.doogooders.com/springclean

4. Doody's Dog Waste Removal

We did not see any specials for Spring Clean Up on their website.

605-362-1137
https://www.nomoredoody.com/residential-dog-waste-removal

Though some of these companies name may seem funny to some, according to SiouxFall.Org , pet waste is certainly no laughing matter! Pet waste causes an assortment of environmental issues when it enters the Big Sioux River. Decaying pet waste consumes oxygen and also can release ammonia. Both low oxygen levels and ammonia can damage the health of fish and other aquatic life within our local waterways. Pet waste also carries a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can threaten the health of both wildlife and humans alike. Nutrients within pet waste promote weed and algae growth (eutrophication) if it finds its way into a body of water. Both cloudy and green, Eutrophic water makes swimming and recreation unappealing and even unhealthy.

What Can We Do?

Cleaning up after your pooch isn’t just a courtesy for those walking behind you; it is also a healthy and environmentally sound thing to do. Pet waste can be a significant source of water pollution. When pet waste is not properly disposed of, it can be carried by rain or snow runoff directly into our local waterways or through our storm drainage system. Please follow these guidelines to ensure that we keep Sioux Falls and our local waterways clean!

Pick up after your pet every single time. Check with your pet store for products that make cleaning up easier.

Throw away pet waste in the garbage, never into the gutter or storm drain.

Carry extra bags in your car so you are always prepared when traveling with your pet.

Get involved in a pet-owners’ group and help to remind others to pick up after their pets.

The magnitude of pet loss grief is indescribable - Honoring Traci

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 02:57:23 GMT

Stages of grief are just as valid when your loss is your pet kid.

In honor of my (Pet Pal Keli) Traci Girl. I still love you deeply and miss your tremendously. 5yrs ago today, 2 months prior to your 14th birthday, we said our dreaded good bye. I still cry and long for you. You, your Daddy, and I plus Dr. Charity Arnes gave your health conditions all we had. There will never ever be another Traci. I Love You.

All our Love, Momma and Daddy.

Traci… That one of a kind dog that formed that one of a kind bond that all dog owners dream about and all pups deserve; passed 5 years ago today. She was the silent partner behind Pet Pals. Silent that is until she had something to passionately share and then she respectfully let her voice be heard one way or another. Traci was the kind of pup that felt more like an extension of yourself; that always seemed to know exactly what you were telling her or asking her to do; that always new how to communicate back to you in a way that you'd understand her; that was always right there next to you and yet danced around your every anticipated move in a way that made her no more noticeable than your own feet.

Traci helped train other dogs including at least giving her much bigger cousin Max a challenge, was a role model for her cousin Gracie, and was the rock for our anxiety filled rescue dog Rinzen. She would keep, and restore, the peace when other animals (cats and/or dogs) weren't getting along and would protect the underdog or cat. In fact, she saved Rinzen a few times from more than just embarrassment. Still, with people; she new how to steal the attention in the room, make everyone laugh, or to just lay low when the situation called for it. She new how to distract you when you needed distracting and snuggle in close when you needed to feel.

Traci’s drive, strength, and passion for life was a major inspiration to starting Pet Pals and wanting to work everyday to better the lives of people and their pets. Everyone should get to experience that once in a lifetime bond with an animal and it's that mentality and experience that Pet Pals' brings to each service, each time. Traci may have passed 5 years ago today and yet her spirit lives on and is strong every day around our community through Pet Pals and all those that are passionate about animals.

If you have suffered the loss of a pet, know someone who has, or unfortunately preparing for that day....please read on.

The death of a pet can be a truly traumatic experience and create a large void in our hearts and lives—comparable to losing a close family member or friend. As humans, we project onto our beloved pets our thoughts, emotions, and ideas: We see ourselves in our animals. The common belief that “owners come to look like their pets” may not be a literal truism but rather a figure of speech indicating that our pets are our self-objects.

To understand the kinship of dogs and humans, we might look at the qualities that humans think their friends should have. Laura Argintar in ADVICE suggests they include: no judgment, genuineness, trustworthiness, acceptance, respect, forgiveness, support, dependability, thoughtfulness, being a good listener, sharing humor, love. How does this stack up with the humans we know? Need I say more?

The magnitude of pet loss grief

A pet is truly a gift that can change your life and bring you monumental happiness and gratitude. Pets teach you responsibility, patience, kindness, discipline, playfulness and, most importantly, unconditional love. Even if your dog chews your couch, scratches your doors, and manages to eat every sock you own, you still figure out a way to share your home and heart with your companion.

The death of a pet can hurt as much as the loss of a close relative or friend. It is common for humans to have conflicts with family members over religion, money, politics and so forth—conflicts that may create emotional distance between them. Humans and pets do not have these types of conflicts—pets are 100 percent dependent on their human companion. Yes, you may become angry at your dog for chewing your shoelaces or leaving a “surprise” on your carpet, but these feelings of frustration and anger quickly dissipate after your pet looks up at you with funny ears and wide-open eyes.

Stages of grief

People who have never had a pet might not understand the loss and may invalidate your feelings as you go through the grieving process, but don’t allow them to dictate your feelings. It is normal to feel devastated after the loss of a pet. It is common to believe that your dog or cat will still be around to greet you at the door when you arrive home. Many people feel disloyal if they decide to adopt another pet.

In her book, On Death & Dying, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross identified five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance.

Denial is a normal part of the grieving process. Just make sure you don’t deny your grief. Allow yourself to express your feelings in any way that benefits you. Expressing your feelings can be truly cathartic.

Anger is a normal stage of grieving and it is common for pet owners to become angry at the “why” and “how” their pet died. Was it a terrible accident? Was it an incurable disease or illness?

Becoming angry at the reason for the pet’s passing might eventually lead to bargaining. You might say things to yourself like: “If only I could have three more days with Fido.” The constant “what ifs” and “if onlys” can be extremely stressfuland unsettling.

Depression or sadness is the fourth stage of grief in the Kübler-Ross model and, for many, the longest stage. Some people will always hold a small amount of sadness in their heart for their beloved pet.

Acceptance is the final stage, but accepting a loss does not mean forgetting the memories. At this stage, you may feel like your life is becoming normal again and you may even consider adopting another pet.

Everyone grieves differently

Grief has no timeline and no boundaries. Everyone grieves differently and for dissimilar lengths of time. Your level of grief may depend on your age and personality, your pet’s age and personality, and the circumstances of your pet’s death, as well as the relationship between you and your animal. Often, individuals who live alone take longer to grieve because their companion played such an important role in their lives. The same is true for disabled people who lose a therapy- or seeing-eye dog, because the animal was not just a companion but also a vital aid to their daily tasks.

If you or a loved one has recently lost a pet, try to remember your companion by keeping the love alive. Maybe frame a photo of your pet, plant a tree in your pet’s memory, create a symbolic gravestone, or, if you cremate your pet, keep the ashes somewhere special. Keeping the memories of your beloved companion alive can be the healthiest way to get through the grief."

The above was not composed or wrote by Pet Pals. Contributed by Kristen Fuller, M.D. and Psychology Today.

Professional Pet Sitter. Why it Matters.

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 04:31:09 GMT

What's a Professional Pet Sitter and Why it Matters.

To be clear, the above criteria are important, they just no longer clearly separate those that are performing as a professional and those that are not in the current environment. Many hobbyists simply join directory listings or online pet sitter marketplaces! and have immediate access to education (albeit often very little), basic background checks, and insurance that is questionable at best. Such directories and marketplaces, although may be used by professionals, are designed to flood the industry with endless supply through support of the hobbyist and the masses (quantity over quality) in order to maximize profits for the third party directory or marketplace owner. In other words; real passion for pets, quality of pet care, concern for pet owners, and concern for pet sitters are all diminished priorities to their need for more and more participants. All the meanwhile for the general pet owning public, it becomes almost impossible to understand any differences between professionals and hobbyists as in these places, they look the same. The are left to rely on reviews that can be bought or exaggerated either way….and none of us want to be the one who gets the legitimately bad experience for others to learn from.

So What Makes a Professional a Professional? From my perspective as a Professional Pet Sitter, the difference lays inherently in the experience, education, and commitment. It’s the commitment to put Clients and pets first, the education that can only come from a true passion for animals and experience (and variety of experience). It's one thing to walk a well behaved/trained small dog on a summer day while the pet's owner is working a long day and totally different when your hired to care for an unruly animal bigger than yourself while the owner is in a different country, it's the middle of winter, and you arrive at their house to see frozen pipes that have burst and a heater that's not working. While a hobbyist may do in the first scenario, you need a professional in the later. Professionals have the education and depth of experience to come equipped with the tools to handle every situation, from human to pet and the property in between. Moreover, having access to that amount and quality of information, being (or being part of) the brand, the direct connection to the person that makes the decisions or being that person that makes the final decision is what truly denotes a professional.

Who cares more if there is bad weather and a dog is scared, an accident occurs, or an emergency happens, the professional or the hobbyist? The professional, the owner of a pet sitting company, whether solo or employing staff does as it’s their life and reputation ! It's them being all in and not simply creating a profile. How they have trained to handle the issues that occur or put procedures in place for their staff to follow to make certain the number one priority in every situation is the client’s pet(s) and the property in their care – makes that a person a professional pet sitter. A true professional pet sitter through experience and education has taken great steps in educating themselves and their staff in providing the best service and can easily convey that to their clients.

This doesn’t mean that a pet sitter listed on a dot com site or within a marketplace app isn’t a professional. Professional pet sitters are both company owners and can often be found listed. It's the attitude they have about the client’s pet and the steps they have taken to educate themselves and finally, it’s the experience they have. It's whether, when you contact them, you are contacting a real business that will be there when you need them vs. a hobbyist here one day, gone the next, and a directory or marketplace representative telling you they have no responsibility for the actions of people on their sites.

So rather than state that the difference between a professional pet sitter depends on if one has followed the now common thoughts originally listed, I hold a higher standard as should any pet owner. One doesn't simply create a profile to be a nurse, you don’t wake up as an engineer, and even hair your stylist has a legal standard of education to become a stylist and work in the field to gain the experiences needed for a license. Even though pet sitting is without a legal standard, pet owners must hold a standard for the level of care provided by a professional, because at the end of the day, the care the pet receives is the only thing that truly matters.

Without the regulatory guidance to determine if a person providing care for your pets is professional or not and with certain companies taking advantage of this deficiency; as a pet owner, be thoughtful and ask the right questions. Ask what experience that person has and not just in how many pets they themselves have had or how many years they have taken care of a dog. Ask about their backup plans; what their emergency plan is; what education they have completed to make certain your pet is their #1; about their depth of experience in terms of at least types of animals and types of situations experienced.

Yes, a professional pet sitter should be educated, possess current business license/permits, use a contract, provide background checks, provide insurance, and bonding and be trained in pet first aid so they know what to do when something goes wrong. A professional should go the extra mile, they should have every tool available in their toolbox and they should have the experience of how to use them or access to the business owner that does. The most important tool is in them knowing what to do when reality is different than what was planned in the meet and greet, in an emergency, or when something requires immediate decisions beyond the normal routine.

So do Your Homework. Until regulations are created to truly denote the difference between a professional pet sitter and one who is not, it is up to the pet owner to determine who is best alone in their house and alone with their pet(s). Dot com listing sites, directories, and marketplaces do not have the obligation , are often misleading or ambiguous at best. They are a tech company first that to survive needs to create an overabundance of supply in hopes the demand will follow and they provide a false sense of security that their insurance is full and that they educate their sitters. Look at what each sitter has done with their time in the pet sitting world and knowing what you know, expect, and deserve; ask yourself, are they a professional?

Why hire a Professional Pet Sitter?

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 04:09:10 GMT

Hire a professional for your pet and for you!

Why hire a Professional Pet Sitter?

Hire a professional for your pet!

1. Your pet stays in the comfort of their own home surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and scents. At home, they are not directly exposed to illness, noise, unfamiliar smells (remember this Facebook post about how much a dog can smell https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2154860961236678&id=174147725974688 ) often present in a kennel. The alternative to in home pet care is all different, non familiar scents, hearing constant barking, and sleeping in an area that is more kennel than it is home. No matter the best attempt to make something comfortable and warm; let's face it, there is no place like home.

2. Personalized individual attention from the same pet sitter! This allows for bonding and when bonding occurs, pets flourish. They actually look forward to their pet pal coming which creates an extra level of happiness and satisfaction.

3. You don't have to go get your pet when you arrive home! Instead, they are already happy and waiting for you at home. Pet Pals often hears, “I think he was sad when we came home and it wasn't you!”

4. There is no additional charge for a more comfy bed, larger space, walk, or one-on-one time (just to name a few.) AND here at Pet Pals we do NOT charge per pet!! Your pet will not be uprooted from everything they know, trust, and find comfort in.

Hire a professional for you!

1. No imposing on your neighbors, family, and friends or working around another’s full time job schedule. Professional pet sitters, such as Pet Pals, are passionate about your pet's care being their number one priority.

2. Professional pet sitters, Pet Pals, have clear business policies and procedures in place for your protection and for your pet’s safety . With them, you won't be pushed back and forth between a marketplace representative and somebody on the marketplace one day and not the next.

3. Pet sitters, such as Pet Pals, aid in crime deterrence by rotating lights and blinds as well as bringing in packages/mail. Our profession demands situational awareness and being regularly in your house and neighborhood, positions us well to know when something is wrong or out of the ordinary.

4. You have full control of your home . Set up in home cameras and watch your pet anytime!!! In home cameras are inexpensive, often allow you to view from your phone, and some also allow you to speak with your pet!!!! Pet Pals encourages in home cameras.

Here is what a typical day looks like when you Hire Pet Pals!

How to Love Your Pet

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 03:10:52 GMT

Show your pet love on this National Love Your Pet Day!

There are many ways to love your pet. Regardless of the way or ways you choose, happy love your pet day!..and in the spirit of the day, here are some enriched ways to love your pet.

Lean On Each Other - Even though most dogs aren’t the biggest fans of hugs, people often fight a losing battle again the urge to give a loving squeeze. After all, hugging is one of the most natural ways for humans to show affection. However, for many of our canine companions, a hug is an unwelcome or even threatening experience. On the other hand, has your dog ever pressed up against your legs or leaned into you while you were sitting together? This is one way that dogs seek affection – think of it as a doggie hug. “Hug” him back by doing the same thing.

Pet Time - Setting aside time every day to provide attention and bonding brings lots of benefits. According to multiple studies, 10 minutes a day can go a long way toward strengthening the relationship with your pet. And this is not just for them as studies have shown that petting a dog or cat can lower stress, improve heart health, and even elevates your mood.

Play more games - Playing games is an effective stress reliever for you and provides your pets with both mental and physical benefits. To keep your pet from getting bored, find a few activities that you enjoy playing with each other such as fetch, hide-and-seek, or scent games. Check out Pet Pals Enrichment Series for great game ideas.
#PetPalsEnrichmentSeries - follow this hashtag on Pet Pals Facebook or Instagram

Paw it forward - One of the best ways you can show your love for your pet is to spread it around to others. There are millions of wonderful animals waiting for their forever homes in shelters and rescues around the country. Volunteering at a shelter walking dogs or spending quality time with cats is a great way to pay it forward.

Walk and play - Daily activity is good for your pet’s body and brain just like us humans. Additionally, burning of that energy in a constructive way promotes good behavior. So dedicate time every day to a walk or playing fetch with the family pooch either by you or your fave Pet Pal!

Model: Pet Pal Louie!

Photography: Pet Pals Pet Photography

Freshen up your dog's breath!

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 21:51:51 GMT

Bark all about this! Celery is very low in fat and cholesterol and is an excellent source of fiber; vitamins A, C, and K; folate; potassium; and manganese. This crunchy veggie also might freshen up your dog's breath, which is all the incentive some dog parent's need!

Of course and as with anything, moderation is the key. Like all vegetables that are high in fiber, too much celery can make your dog gassy or even cause diarrhea. Additionally, since celery is roughly 95% water, too much celery can cause dogs to urinate a great deal more than usual.

Celery? Great, healthy treat for your Dog in reasonable amounts!

Tug-O-War

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:31:08 GMT

Yes or No?

Tug-of-war can be a great enrichment tool in the practice of keeping control over excited dogs. However, like any tool, it's important to use it correctly. The following are some things to keep in mind about the tug-of-war game.

While playing tug-of-war, your dog might get excited and begin growling. Their growl during tug-of-war is often how they communicate during this style of play and can be normal. Some misinterpret the sounds for aggression, even though it is a common way that dogs express their emotions verbally. Of course, it is important to keep your dog from becoming overly excited, which is where this tool/game (tug-of-war) comes in handy.

The game is all about control and as such, you should always be the one to initiate tug-of-war and not your dog. Then, ensure you maintain control throughout the game. For example, have your dog release the tug toy and sit at any time. Try doing this at least once every 30 seconds. Also try mixing in short training breaks by having your dog release the tug and then giving a series of commands (e.g. sit, down, stand, down, another sit, etc.) appropriate for your dog, and then restart the game as a reward.

While playing tug-of-war on your terms, keep in mind that a bit of growling with the tail still wagging is okay, but anything too intense warrants a break. Using this controlled technique to manage excitement will go a long way in you and your dog managing their excitement during unexpected events.

Watch Pet Pal Ace demonstrate Tug-O-War!

Stimulating Dog Games

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 04:36:38 GMT

Pet Pals Enrichment Series - work for food.

Enriching an animal's environment to improve their physical and/or psychological health can be just as creatively stimulating for you or your family members! No need to go to the store. No need to spend a lot of money...or any money. Recycled materials from around the house are often great building blocks for enrichment activities.

In these videos, Pet Pals repurposed a rug and recycled pieces of cardboard for fun new and stimulating games. Pet Pal Kadian gets to use her nose to dig out treats in two very different ways. Doing this expands energy, builds confidence, gets her brain active, and gives her a little treat all at the same time. In addition, creating your own enrichment allows for more variation and customized activities that are best for your dog.

Not just for staying inside on a cold day, creating enrichment activities is a great project for kids. It can be simple or complex. It can challenge you as much as your pet kid as you look around your house, start to see "trash" in new and creative ways, and view the world as enrichment opportunities; not just what they shouldn't do.

Remember, start simple and build complexity at an appropriate pace for your pet kid(s).

Check out Pet Pal Kadian enjoying the repurposed enrichment actives in the videos posted below!

Video One - Was made out of empty tissue box and 2 toilet paper rolls. You could also use a paper towel roll cut in half. The toilet paper rolls were used to create difficulty. If your pup or cat is new to enrichment, then you could omit the toilet paper rolls and introduce them in once they have the hang of it! As you can see in the beginning of the video, treats were set on top to help entice the start of the activity. Food was placed inside the toilet paper rolls and Pet Pal Kadian had to figure out how to get them out!! A blanket was used to help the box from scooting all over on the floor. Keep in mind, if the blanket was not there this would increase the difficulty level. So many options! So FUN and such a great bonding experience.

Video Two - what was used? A floor rug with a non slip back. Start rolling the rug and place treats throughout. The more you add, the easier the activity. Less treats equals more challenging. You can use a bath towel, hand towel, throw blanket, get creative!!! As you seen in the first video a blanket was used to help the box from scooting all over on the floor and you can do the same here if using something that doesn't have a non slip back. Alternatively, leave it as is and up the difficultly.

Pet Pals Enrichment Series

Sat, 26 Jan 2019 17:32:02 GMT

Work For Food

When pets learn a new task that ends in the acquisition of food (i.e. work for their food); they receive mental enrichment and stimulation! That time and effort they spend with their use of both mental and physical skills is highly rewarding and builds great confidence.

For example, some toys require your dog to manipulate them to get a food reward. This provides the dog with opportunities to scavenge and explore and thus, requiring it to expend mental and physical energy to accomplish the task. In contrast, if your dog gets all its food from a food bowl, it does not have to work or use any energy to obtain the food.

There are lots of benefits in allowing pets to eat more naturally through working for their food. For example, slowing down voracious eaters enriches mealtime to make the meal seem larger and could reduce the risk of bloat. Seemingly larger meals also means that dogs on diets will feel more satisfied/full from working for their food. Picky dogs are often more interested in food if it’s presented as a fun puzzle for them to solve and best of all; mental exercise is every bit as tiring (if not more) than physical exercise. So working for food could help reduce your pets from creating their own mental stimulation or as we call it, “getting into mischief”!

With many feeding toys on the market you are sure to find more then one that your dog or cat will love! Cats too and many other pets, not just dogs naturally work for their food in nature. Of course, make the puzzle easy in the beginning so that your pet is successful and builds confidence. Then gradually increase the difficulty as they figure out how to make the toy work. You can even feed entire meals from a toy and throw out the food bowl altogether.

**IMPORTANT** Keep in mind to not overfeed your pet! It's critical to calculate how much you are giving as training rewards, how much you are putting in feeding toys or other enrichment, and what is left to be put into the food bowl. That total should not exceed your pet’s daily needs.

Watch Pet Pal Penny work for her food in the following video! See how much FUN it is for her!

To Heimlich or Not

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 15:46:33 GMT

Heimlich Maneuver videos included.

A dog choking can be very scary. It happens in a split second. Be prepared.

So, what are the signs a dog is choking?

Lips or tongue turning blue from a lack of oxygen.
Pawing at the mouth.
Difficulty breathing.
General agitation.
Panicking in a way you have never seen prior

Some of the top common items dogs choke on:

Cooked bones. Cooked bones will splinter and create an even greater risk by breaking into smaller, sharper pieces.
Rawhides
Rocks
Plastic Wrap. Most dogs will dig through the trash if given the opportunity. Many dangers lie in the trash can, especially plastic wrap.
Wrong size toy. Finding the right sized ball/toy for your dog is one of the most important things you’ll ever need to do.

Your dog IS choking what should you do? Here are some great video to view and learn how to preform the Heimlich Maneuver on your dog.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnXt8ou9qeA&fbclid=IwAR3is55_iyPTqrknxpm1W3X9tD1VqjJ76wClnGT1WGIyt71tWoY4PNUzZs4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz8AMr1gAeo

Pet Pals Enrichment Series

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 02:59:58 GMT

Working for Food

Traditionally, most people feed their dog food using a dog bowl. Still, it's a dog's nature to work for their food and successfully doing so is not only stimulating, but highly rewarding for them. Incorporating a meal with a snuffle mat can provide these benefits while maintaining much of the convenience that comes with using a bowl. Thus, even food time doesn't have to inhibit brain time.

SNUFFLE MATS are all about exerting mental energy! Other than meal time, use snuffles mats during inclement weather, to help get a puppy/dog used to a car ride, as a crate game, to help alleviate anxiety, or any stressful situation for focusing on something constructive versus destructive. Options are endless!

For first time snufflers; take a handful of your dog's favorite treats, kibble, etc., and sprinkle throughout the snuffle mat. Start simple by placing the treats right at the top of the mat. Then as the dog becomes familiar with how to use the mat, make it more difficult by burying the treats deeper in. Remember, it's important not to make it too hard at the beginning. The goal is to build confidence and stimulate brain time, not to stump them. You may even want to bring out a high reward treat, something nice and smelly, to get them use to using a snuffle mat.

Unlike most work-to-eat toys, a snuffle mat is more likely to “stay put” versus rolling away. This makes it an especially great solution for blind dogs, senior dogs, and dogs with mobility challenges. These dogs can get frustrated when they have trouble keeping up with a toy that moves around too much. Likewise for dogs recovering from an illness or surgery and restricted from exercise or physical activity; a snuffle mat makes it easier for dogs to stay in a smaller area, while still exerting mental energy!

Caring for a snuffle mat is easy. Simply hand wash with cold water using mild soap and them air dry.

Making snuffle mats are easy too. Make it yourself with a fabric of your choice (Pet Pal Keli chooses fleece) and mat of your choice. A mat with holes in it makes for easier work, but one without can always have holes drilled in. Simply cut up steps of fabric and tie them into the mat. The more layers or more sense the fabric, the more challenging it will be.

To control the color or size of this text, please change the global colors or text size under the Design section from the left menu of the editor.

Watch Pet Pal Kadian and Rinzen use their snuffle mat!

Top Things Puppies Need

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 06:07:37 GMT

In random order

Are you waiting to bring your puppy home? Did you just bring your puppy home? Are you think about adding a puppy to your family? Read on!

Top Things Puppies Need:

1. Consistent Elimination Schedule
Puppies can generally hold their bladder for one hour per month of age

2. Puppy Feeding Schedule
A basic puppy feeding schedule until the puppy reaches 14 to 18 weeks old and then change to two meals a day unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

4. Sleep
Research from multiple sources indicate puppies typically spend around 15 to 20 hours a day dozing and dreaming away at 3 months of age.

6. Puppy Toys
Keeping your puppy entertained so puppy doesn’t become bored and then destructive is critical. One way to do that is with toys. Experts suggest around 5 to 6 puppy friendly toys of various kinds.

7. Puppy Accident Cleaner
Whether you prefer making your own cleaner or buying one from the store, it is important to clean up the poop/potty accident thoroughly.

All natural cleaner idea for urine:
Use undiluted white vinegar to soak the area completely and then let it sit for several minutes before blotting dry. Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia smell of urine, making it a good choice for cleaning. For additional help, use baking soda (sucks up the moisture of remaining urine and vinegar) to settle into the carpet fibers for about 15 minutes, then vacuum the area.

Young Living Thieves Household Cleaner.

8. Appropriately Sized Crate
They love the comfort and security of “their" space.

10. Identification
Microchips - are usually implanted in the scruff of the neck, but don't cause any pain for your pet. They have no power supply, battery, or moving parts. Microchips are designed with an operating life of an average of 20 years, don't require care, and are only as big as a grain of rice.

Dog Tags - make a tag at your local pet store and place on your puppies collar with your contact information.

11. Food & Bowls
Up until about one year of age, your puppy will need a high-quality puppy food specially formulated for his age, size, and development. In other words, larger breed puppies are going to need different types of puppy food than smaller breeds.

Use ceramic or stainless-steel bowls that are easy to clean and won’t harbor bacteria the same way plastic does.

12. You
Ask yourself, “What Does My Puppy Need from me?” Along with early health screening, veterinary visits, plenty of socialization, and obedience training; your puppy is going to need consistency, patience, and lots of your love!

Together, these 12 things are critical to the foundation of raising a happy, healthy, and well-rounded puppy!

Reflect back on a record setting 2018 for Pet Pals.

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 17:17:48 GMT

Thank YOU!

As we close out and celebrate 2018, we can once again reflect back on a record setting year for Pet Pals. Pet Pals' mission to be the premier pet services company proudly serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding area and our core values to give back remained clear and consistent throughout 2018. It's this mission year-over-year that, as our results demonstrate, continues to be the winning formula!

For Pet Pals, 2018 was a year of impressive numbers including record breaking revenue from our ability to provide best in class service to our Clients and their pet kids. This means driving over 29,500 miles and over 3,500 dog walks, pet visits, and other Pet Pals’ services! To accomplish this; Pet Pals' was available 24/7 and worked countless hours being there when you needed us for everything from our services, to answering your pet related questions, or just to let you in your house when you got locked out.

For you, like every year, Pet Pals doesn't stop with our commitment to being the premier pet servicer. We also have a strong track record and commitment to our community and giving back. Along with record breaking services in 2018, Pet Pals brought record breaking giving. In addition to donations of time and money throughout the year including at least the Abbott House, Educated Mommy, Elegant Mommy, fundraisers for children with cancer, and numerous silent auctions; Pet Pals gave to many Pet related organizations including at least the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society, B-Squad Rescue, Dakota Dachshund Rescue, and more. We also gave back directly to people in our community through almost $500 worth of gifts during our 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway. Pet Pals led the efforts for our annual “Help a Pet in Need" donation drive, during which we provided over $600 in giveaways, refreshments, food, etc. and spent a lot of time bringing together partners and motivating our local Pet Community to support two great local non-profit pet rescues. You can always count on Pet Pals commitment to Clients and Community!

In 2018, like each year before, Pet Pals reality went beyond loving pets and happier people to also include loving people and happier pets. In 2018 people were busy, people lived and worked the lives they wanted, and people still had the cared for loving pet(s) that bring them so much joy! In 2018 and with Pet Pals, people had at least all of that in a way that truly made their lives easier.

At Pet Pals, we say “Your Pet will Thank you!” and surely they do; yet beyond that, Pet Pals thanks you! Thank you for your support. Thank you for the dreams you have, the motivation to see them become reality, and the will to maintain a high quality of life for your pet(s) at the same time. Thank you for being part of something that is making a positive difference in people’s and pet’s lives. With hope that you are enjoying the holidays with family and friends while taking some time to relax and recharge, thank you for a record breaking 2018!

From reflection to repeat, Pet Pals has complete confidence in our ability to continue this momentum into 2019. More importantly, that we will continue to be the best option for our Clients providing them unsurpassed services both exceeding and anticipating their increasingly complex needs and lifestyles while giving back to our community. With 2018 ending yet another year of many in Pet Pals’ history and 2019 representing the first of many more years to come; Pet Pals looks forward to continuing to be a majorly positive part of our pet community, our Clients lives, and realizing even greater amazing numbers representing our ability to make a difference in people and pets lives.

We look forward to working with you on the opportunities that lie ahead in 2019 and breaking more records. Together, we will continue to improve people and pet’s quality of life throughout our great community! Here's to an amazing 2019 filled with ever loving and ever happier People and pets!

#HirePetPals #PetSitter #DogWalker #YourPetWillThankYou #EstablishedMay24th2011 #PetCareExpert #SpecializedPetCare #PetTaxi

How much in total?!

Sat, 29 Dec 2018 22:05:43 GMT

Results are in for the 2018 Help A Pet In Need Donation Drive!!!!

Pet Pals’ 2018 Help a Pet in Need donation drive (5th Annual) is officially in the books and we are one step closer to wrapping up 2018! This year, we teamed up with Dirty Dog Spa to raise donations for Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Dog Rescue- A South Dakota Rez Dog Rescue.

The open house at Dirty Dog Spa was the official kick off, during which Dirty Dog Spa gave away over $600 in free nail trims and dog treats while Pet Pals provided over $600 in refreshments and gift bags. Our giving turned into your giving and together, our pet community put forth a great showing. Donation results included at least loads of needed dog bowls, cleaners, garbage bags, linens, cleaner, and harnesses. We totaled 50 fleece blankets, with 20% of them coming from your likes and shares of Pet Pals Christmas Giveaway (days 15 & 16). Additionally there was almost 200 pounds of food donated and around $500 in cash!

Thank you to Dirty Dog Spa and everyone who participated in making this year's Help a Pet in Need donation drive a great success.

Pet Pals and Dirty Dog went live on Facebook prior to the distribution of donations! View the video here .

Pictured below is Dakota Dachshund Rescue receiving their donations!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 00:40:55 GMT

Day 19

As Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas 2018 comes to a close, it represents 8 years of giveaway events or 152 days of giving! A lot changes over 8 years. Still, Pet Pals' mission to be the premier pet services company proudly serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding area and core value to give back have remained clear and consistent over that time. Thank you all for your contribution, participation, and support of Pet Pals and our Pet Community! Please continue to follow Pet Pals (on Facebook, Instagram, and Blog ) for events, pet related information, and your pet servicing needs. Merry Christmas! Hugs & Loves - Pet Pal Keli!

For 10 additional entries into the drawing, send your email address and we'll send you future Pet Pals emails containing promotions, event notices, blog updates, and more. Sign up by following this link! https://www.hirepetpals.com/
Pet Pals will be notified when you sing up, when we receive that notification you will get your extra 10 entries into the drawing!
**Don't worry, Pet Pals is responsible and respectful with your email. We will not sell or give your email to other people and will not spam you.

For 5 additional entries into the drawing, comment on the Day 19 blog the answer to this question - What is your favorite Christmas memory?

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 23:52:54 GMT

Day 18

Day 18 is sponsored by Wild Water West !

Wild Water West!

Voted Sioux Falls’ #1 fun spot by The Local Best, Wild Water West is your ticket to summer fun! This waterpark is always bringing the latest water and land attractions to Sioux Falls. Families and adult groups travel from near and far to spend the day with us. So throw on a swimsuit, grab a towel and sunscreen, and get in on the action come summer 2019!

Up for grabs is 2 daily admission tickets! WHAAAT!!! You read that right!!!!!

For 10 additional entries into the drawing, send your email address and we'll send you future Pet Pals emails containing promotions, event notices, blog updates, and more. Sign up by following this link! https://www.hirepetpals.com/
Pet Pals will be notified when you sing up, when we receive that notification you will get your extra 10 entries into the drawing!
**Don't worry, Pet Pals is responsible and respectful with your email. We will not sell or give your email to other people and will not spam you.

For 5 additional entries into the drawing, go back to Day 18 giveaway on Pet Pals Facebook page and post a pic of our pet kid(s) enjoying summer time!

This has been such a FUN giveaway!!!! THANK YOU!!! Tomorrow is the final day, stayed tuned!!!!

Please keep Pet Pals in mind for your pet care needs.

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 21:07:26 GMT

Day 17

Day 17 is sponsored by Pet Pals!!

Up for grabs is this Fire 7 Tablet! WOOOHOOOOOO!!!!

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 17 blog post......True or False: Pet Pals has a referral program? Follow this link for a hint! https://www.hirepetpals.com/refer-pet-pals-pet-sitting-and-dog-walking

For 10 additional entries into the drawing, send your email address and we'll send you future Pet Pals emails containing promotions, event notices, blog updates, and more. Sign up by following this link! https://www.hirepetpals.com/
Pet Pals will be notified when you sing up, when we receive that notification you will get your extra 10 entries into the drawing!
**Don't worry, Pet Pals is responsible and respectful with your email. We will not sell or give your email to other people and will not spam you.

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sat, 15 Dec 2018 22:58:24 GMT

Day 15 & 16

Day 15 and 16 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

For every 25 likes Pet Pals will donate something off the wish list for the Help a Pet In Need Drive! All you have to do is like this post on

Pet Pals Facebook page and you will help donate something to Pets in Need!!!!!! For additional entry, which will count as a like, comment a name of an animal rescue! Of course, tagging a friend in the comments under this days photo on Pet Pals Facebook page will count as an additional entry aka like! How many likes can Day 15 & 16 get?!!!

THANK YOU for Helping a Pet In Need!!! WOOF WOOF ( that is thank you in dog language!)

If you would like to donate something off of the wish list here is the complete wish list and details.

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 22:06:55 GMT

Day 14

What is In Home Pet Sitting by Pet Pals LLC?

In home pet sitting is when a professional pet care provider comes to your home for scheduled visits to care for your pet(s) in their own environment. Our services are customized to meet the needs and routines of your pet(s). We come when and as often as you wish and take pride in caring for your home to ensure it has that “lived in feel”. This, along with Pet Pals' vehicles not displaying advertisements, will help deter burglars by making it less obvious that you are not home.

In home pet sitting provided by Pet Pals LLC will remove any chance of your pet contracting an illness or being involved in any potential dog fights while at a kennel. In addition, remember that kennels generally have day business hours; meaning they close and leave your pet kid alone in a strange environment, with strange smells, and without being let out go potty. Kennels also tend to be crowded and do not specialize with one-on-one time without an additional fee. Finally, by keeping your pet kid in their natural environment, there's no need to give them a bath when you come home and Your Pet Will Thank You for letting them stay HOME!

ps. YES! Pet Pal Keli does have 2 operating fish tanks!

Today's giveaway is sponsored by Pet Pals!

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 14 blog post......True or False: Pet Pal Keli (owner/founder of Pet Pals) favorite color is yellow?! For 5 additional entries into the drawing, go back over to Pet Pals Facebook page and share a picture of your pet kids in the comments under Day 14 giveaway!

Please join in and on the donation drive!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 23:17:00 GMT

Day 13

Day 13 is sponsored by Pet Pals! You may have seen this prior, your eyes are not playing tricks on you. I found another one so lets give it away!!!

Who is Pet Pals?

With over 15 years of pet care experience and a true passion for pets large or small, from horses to fish, your pet is sure to get spoiled! Pet Pals is an open, honest, upfront, and no hidden costs service provider; if it is a surprise to you, it is a surprise to us.

Also, Pet Pals Help a Pet In Need donation drive is still going on and your donations are sure to put smiles on faces!!!! Please consider and keep this donation drive in mind :)

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 12 blog post......True or False: Pet Pal Keli (owner/founder of Pet Pals) has 2 operating fish tanks?!

Please refresh yourself with the rule and guidelines. You MUST be a fan of Pet Pals Facebook page by "Liking" the page. If you are not, your name will not be put into the drawing.

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 21:29:20 GMT

Day 12

Have you read Pet Pal Keli's thoughts and why Pet Pals? If not, or it has been awhile, I would like to share/re-share!

Over 7 years ago I embarked on a new adventure with the mission to improve people’s quality of life through improving the lives of their pets. The dream, at the time, brought visions of loving pets and happier people. In other words, people can be busy, live and work the lives they want, and still have the cared for loving pet that brings them so much joy. Moreover, they can have all of this in a way that truly made their lives easier. Thus, Pet Pals was born!

What I never imagined is how far reaching the ripples would be of that new business hitting the water. Over the years, Pet Pals has consistently delivered on its mission and made the dream a reality. Beyond that, Pet Pals has had the opportunity to be part of the lives of amazing people and amazing pets. Pet Pals has been there when Clients are on vacation and pipes burst, sump pumps stop working when they are needed most, and more. Pet Pals has been there when Clients are working and their pet’s illness takes a sudden turn for the worse requiring them to be rushed to the Vet or when their pet just has a planned trip to the groomer. Pet Pals has been there when Clients accidentally lock themselves out of their house or that garage door opener stops working and they don’t have a key. Pet Pals has been there helping Clients navigate the impacts their life changes (new jobs, new children, new pets, new homes, and more) have on pets. Additionally, Pet Pals has been there helping Clients navigate the impacts pets’ lives (illness, medication, and death to name a few) have on Clients.

Little did I know, 14 years ago, that every day would become a new adventure and the dream would go beyond loving pets and happier people to also include loving people and happier pets. At Pet Pals, we say “Your Pet will Thank you!” and surely they do; yet beyond that, Pet Pals thanks you! Thank you for your support. Thank you for the dreams you have, the motivation to see them become reality, and the will to maintain a high quality of life for your pets at the same time. Thank you for being part of something that is making a positive difference in people’s and pet’s lives. Pet Pals cannot exist without you and so truly; thank you! Together, we will continue to improve people and pet’s quality of life throughout our great community!

With that said, Pet Pals excitedly looks forward to the new year, new adventures, and new successes.
~All my love, Pet Pal Keli~

ps. YES! Pet Pal Keli's does have a JRT named Kadian! (us two are pictured below! My do we love this pup!!!!)

Today's giveaway is sponsored by Pet Pals!

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 12 blog post......True or False: Pet Pal Keli (owner/founder of Pet Pals) has 2 cats?!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 01:46:20 GMT

Day 11

Day 11 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

Oh is this ever cute! Pawfect size to fit pretty much anywhere!

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 11 blog post......True or False: Pet Pal Keli (owner/founder of Pet Pals) has Jack Russell Terrier name Kadian?!

Pease refresh yourself with the rule and guidelines. You MUST be a fan of Pet Pals Facebook page by "Liking" the page. If you are not, your name will not be put into the drawing.

Also, Pet Pals Help a Pet In Need donation drive is still going on and your donations are sure to put smiles on faces!!!! Please consider and keep this donation drive in mind :)

Pet Pals 19 Days Of Christmas Giveaways

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 15:09:38 GMT

Day 10

Day 10 is sponsored by Woofs & Waves!

Woofs & Waves is a locally-owned pet store conveniently located on the East-side of Sioux Falls, SD. Our store carries only the best brands of food, toys, and pet necessities for your animal friends.

With over 60 years of combined experience in the pet industry, our knowledgeable staff will do more than just help you find the best products. We're here to support a healthy relationship for you and your pets.

Woofs & Waves will be doing the 12 days of Christmas specials. Having a new special everyday leading up to Christmas! Follow them on Facebook for all of our sales, specials and new product information. https://www.facebook.com/woofsandwaves/

For 10 additional entries, comment your answer to this question on Day 10 blog post: What are two brands of dog foods Woofs & Waves carry? Hint your answer can be found on their website! https://www.woofsandwaves.com/products?fbclid=IwAR1R-Byz1x8DISXaZdC2SVVMwiTTvxjKkZE92Vhvj6ZDhjN49J-EXM3wCZ0

THANK YOU Woofs & Waves for another year of participation in the Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!!! WOOF!!!!

Don't forget about subscribing to Pet Pals emails! Pet Pals is responsible and respectful with your email. We will not sell or give your email to other people and will not spam you. Sign up here! https://www.hirepetpals.com

Also, the Help a Pet In Need donation drive is still going on and your donations are sure to put smiles on faces!!!! Please consider and keep this donation drive in mind :)

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 20:55:47 GMT

Day 9

Day 9 is sponsored by Pet Pals!!

An ornament that will be forever cherished!

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment your answer to this question on Day 9 blog post......Are you a pet parent or a pet owner?!

As we are close to half way through the Pet Pals 19 Days of Giveaways, please refresh yourself with the rule and guidelines. You MUST be a fan of Pet Pals Facebook page by "Liking" the page. If you are not, your name will not be put into the drawing.

Also, the Help a Pet In Need donation drive is still going on and your donations are sure to put smiles on faces!!!! Please consider and keep this donation drive in mind :)

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 21:46:22 GMT

Day 8

Day 8 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

Check out this awesome speaker! G.O.A.T. Pet Speaker!
"G.O.A.T. Speaker from G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) is a speaker that attaches to a pet's collar. The Bluetooth speaker is connected to a smartphone app that allows a pet owner to stream music, take photos, organize a calendar and give pets a voice with its recording function. "

For your extra entry into the drawing, comment on this post the answer to this question......How many pets do you have?!

Today Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa hosted an Open House for DDR and B-Squad!

Such an amazing time during today's "Help a Pet In Need" open house at Dirty Dog Spa with Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Dog Rescue- A South Dakota Rez Dog Rescue .

The great people of Sioux Falls and surrounding area stepped up in a big way, provided many donations for these great organizations, and made an enormous difference for Dogs in our area. Many, Many thanks to Dirty Dog Spa for co-hosting this event with Pet Pals. Thanks to Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Dog Rescue for the work you do. Most of all, thanks to all the wonderful people that attended today's event! We are all successful because of you. Thank you and happy holidays!!

Donations are being accepted until 21st.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2XT57VtKg0

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 20:47:05 GMT

Day 7

Day 7 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

Up for grabs cat theme metal decor! Sure to go fit into any cat lover's home!!!!

**For 1 additional entry in the drawing, place the answer to this question on this blog post !!!! What is your cat's favorite toy?!

***For 5 additional entries in to the drawing, go back to Facebook and post a picture (under Day 7 giveaway) of your cat! Bonus if sitting in front of Christmas Tree or anything holiday festive!

Reminder!! On this Saturday December 8th, Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa is hosting an Open House for Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Rescue!!!

Follow this link for additional information! https://www.facebook.com/events/2205460486380133/

FREE nail trims and Thank You bags!!!!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 21:04:35 GMT

Day 6

Day 6 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

Up for grabs is this super cute "Hot Cocoa Dog Themed Gift Set"!!!!

**For 1 additional entry in the drawing, place the answer to this question on this blog post !!!! What is your dog's favorite toy?!

***For 5 additional entries in to the drawing, go back to Facebook and post a picture (under Day 6 giveaway) of your dog(s) sitting in front of your Christmas Tree or anything Christmas!!!

Reminder!! On this Saturday December 8th, Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa is hosting an Open House for Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Rescue!!!

Follow this link for additional information! https://www.facebook.com/events/2205460486380133/

FREE nail trims and Thank You bags!!!!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 21:01:02 GMT

Day 5

Day 5 is sponsored by Pet Pals!

Up for grabs is this super cute "The Cat's Rule" wall decor and cat toys!

**For 5 additional entries in the drawing, place the answer to this question on the blog !!!! If you and your cat could be doing whatever you want right now, what would it be?!**

Reminder!! On this Saturday December 8th, Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa is hosting an Open House for Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Rescue!!!

Follow this link for additional information! https://www.facebook.com/events/2205460486380133/

FREE nail trims and Thank You bags!!!!

Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 22:20:41 GMT

Day 4

Day 4 giveaway is sponsored by Sew Doggy Boutique! LOOK at all of the pawsomness up for grabs!!! Dog toys, treat container, AND $20 gift certification to Sew Doggy Boutique. Head of over to their Etsy page and start drooling over what you want to buy!!! Here is the link https://etsy.me/2EY6Pe4

Karli, and her husband Shawn got a mini golden doodle, Opie, in July 2017! He has added so much fun and happiness to thier home! He is also the reason for the shop! Karli always loved the look of bandanna's on pups but didn't like how the majority of them needed to be tied around their necks, she wanted something comfortable and not restraining, so here they are! Making reversible bandannas that slip over your fur babies collar so they can be comfortable and stylish at the same time! She has also started sewing unique collars, leashes, bow ties, and flowers.

Your furry friend will be looking dapper at the dog park. Enjoy :)

Check out Sew Doggy Boutique on Facebook as well!!! https://www.facebook.com/sewdoggyboutique/

**For 5 additional entries in the drawing, go to Sew Doggy Boutique's Etsy page and comment on the blog what product is your FAVE!!!!**

Reminder!! On this Saturday December 8th, Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa is hosting an Open House for Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Rescue!!!

Follow this link for additional information! https://www.facebook.com/events/2205460486380133/

FREE nail trims and Thank You bags!!!!

Pet Pals 8th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 21:44:18 GMT

Day 3

Pet Pal Keli mentioned in her Pet Pals Facebook LIVE video that Pet Pals has been working hard behind the scene on our website. Security and privacy of your information is one of our top priorities and focus. Without further ado!

Pet Pals is proud to announce the launch of our own Progressive Web Application (PWA)! Our Web App is a web app that uses modern web capabilities to deliver you a mobile app-like experience on any compatible device. This brings you increased security, blazing fast interaction, access even when you are offline, and more for the entire Pet Pals site and blog. At the same time, it requires no permissions on your device, no installation, and does not (cannot) access or use any of your information.

So how do you get the Pet Pals Web App and/or how do you know of your device is compatible? Simple! Navigate to HirePetPals.com and;

For Android - Look for a small banner to appear at the bottom of the page (see screenshots below for an example) giving you the option to add Pet Pals to your Home screen. If it appears, your device is compatible. Click/tap the message and you'll get another message asking if you want to add Pet Pals to your Home screen. Click "add" and your set.
For Apple iOS - Click/tap the "share" button and then select the "Add to Home Screen" (see screenshot below) option. It will look like your adding a regular website shortcut. However, the app will open in full screen and operate accordingly.

Once installed, you can treat it like any other app on your device. Likewise, if you ever want to remove it from you device, then you do so like you would any other app on that device.

***The next time you visit Pet Pals site or blog, or want to email or even call Pet Pals; just open the app instead of navigating to the website and then select what you want to do. You'll always have our latest updates and always pick back up in the same place you left off.

Tip:
- swipe right anywhere on our Web App or mobile site to see a full navigational menu and easily get to where you want to go.

Notes:
-The first time you open the app, it may take a few seconds to load. After that, it will pop-up as quickly as your device will allow.

-This is not the same as adding a bookmark to our site and does need need or use your device's browser to operate.

Below are screenshots to help guide the way!

Day 3 Giveaway is sponsored by Pet Pals!!!! For additional entries into the drawing. add Pet Pals app to your home screen on your smart phone! After you have completed that, comment on the blog "DONE" and you will be given 10 additional entries into the drawing!

This is sure to give some relaxation to all! Up for grabs on Day 3 is:
Melissa & Doug Pet Place activity puffy sticker book with 115 reusable stickers, adult dog themed coloring book complete with colored pencils, dog toy, and 2 cat toys!!!!

Kristina Ripperda - you are the WINNER of Day 2 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com to claim! The subject of the email should read, Day 2 Winner!

For Andriod -

For iOS -

Pet Pals 8th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 16:26:46 GMT

Day 2!

How amazing are all of you! You made Day 1 so FUN! Thank you!!!

Day 2 is sponsored by Pet Pals! Calling ALL cat lovers! Or maybe you have a cat lover on your Christmas shopping list left to buy for! This is sure to please the cat lover AND their kitty!

For additional entry into the drawing, comment here on the blog your cat's name!

Did you know cats (not just kittens) need to keep their mind busy too? Keeping them busy, or cat enrichment, is as easy as playing simple games such as hiding toys (like those being given away today) in a box! Cat enrichment does not have to cost a lot and you can use many things you have in the house by simply using it in a different way. Get creative! Your Cat Will Thank You!!!

You can find the rules and guidelines to this contest in the blog named, Rules and Guidelines .

***********
Misty Kuhnert you are the WINNER of Day 1 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com. The subject of the email should read, Day 1 Winner!

Pet Pals 8th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 17:50:06 GMT

Day 1

Welcome!!! Welcome Back!!!!

Pet Pals absolutely 100% LOVES everything about these giveaways! We hope you enjoy them as much as we do!!!

Couple of things:

1. You MUST "Like" Pet Pals Facebook page, this is the only qualification. If you do not "Like'' Pet Pals Facebook page your name will not be entered in to win. This is the only thing we ask :)

2. Have FUN!

Day 1 is sponsored by Pet Pals! Up for giveaway is this Melissa & Doug Pet Care Play Set! For additional entry into this drawing, please comment on this Blog post your favorite Christmas Song!

Pet Pals 8th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 16:42:33 GMT

Rules and Guidelines

Thank you for joining in on the 8th Annual Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Pet Pals Annual Holiday Drive

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 14:56:56 GMT

Help A Pet In Need

Both Dakota Dachshund Rescue and B-Squad Dog Rescue are amazing programs with great people doing great things. Pet Pals and Dirty Dog Spa donation drive will support both of these wonderful programs! Drop off donations anytime during business hours at Dirty Dog Spa through December 21. Your donation is needed and will change the lives of many!

Donate an item off of the wish list, bring your dog for a FREE nail trim from Dirty Dog Spa while you enjoy apple cider and a cookie, and get a "thank you" gift pack from Pet Pals! We look forward to seeing you there and thanking you in person. Your donation makes a difference!

FINAL DAY - Day 19 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 01:52:00 GMT

Day 19 from Pet Pals!!!******For additional entry into Day 19 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 19 picture, a picture of your family!!! Please consider donating to Pet Pals food drive for AniMeals! Wish List, Cat Food:Purina Complete Cat ChowPurina Indoor and Indoor with Hairball ControlIams Proactive Health indoor weight and hairballMeow Mix Dry (Original and Seafood)Meow Mix TendersFancy Feast Chicken or Turkey in GravyFriskies canned food cases:Classic PateShredsWish List, Litter:Clumping Litter (Tidy Cat/other)Tidy Cat Instant Action (blue cap)Arm & Hammer Clump & SealSlideWish List, Dog Food:Purina Complete Dog FoodPurina Dog Chow Small DogPurina OnePurina (or other) Grain Free dryPurina Beyond Small BreedIams Mini-ChunksPure Balance Chicken and Brown RiceAny dry dog food chicken basedCanned dog food with gravy (Alpo, etc)We have some pet owners who feed a variety of dry and canned food, so other brands are also welcome.

Pet Pals Facebook page

Pet Pals

AniMeals

Day 15 and 16 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 21:35:00 GMT

Day 15 and 16 is from Pet Pals!!! Only 1 Fingerlings (posted below) will be given away to 1 lucky WINNER! You must be able to pickup in Sioux Falls, SD! *******For additional entry into Day 15 and 16 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 15 and 16 giveaway a picture of your pet kid(s) and subscribe to Pet Pals Blog!!!

Day 14 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 02:35:00 GMT

Kate Kean are the WINNER of Day 13 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com to claim your prize package. The subject of the email should read, Day 13 Winner. Please include your shipping address! Day 14!!! Who doesn't need bag ties?!!! These also could be used for many other uses as well! Day 14 is provided by Pet Pals! *******For additional entry into Day 14 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 14 giveaway the answer to the following question, what is your cat(s) name?!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Day 13 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 00:51:00 GMT

Oh my goodness, you all made me (Pet Pal Keli) completely speechless and cry in pure utter happiness!!!! Seeing you all support our local animals and elderly is something I will never ever forget!!! I have decided that Pet Pals will currently match the 108 likes on Day 12 with 108 pounds! Those pets and elders cannot thank you, but I can.......Day 13 giveaway is from Pet Pals. Calling all tea drinkers that are dog lovers, this is for you!!!*******For additional entries into Day 13 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 13 giveaway the answer to the following question, what is your favorite tea?!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Day 10 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 01:52:00 GMT

Heather Suter-Serck are the WINNER of Day 9 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com to claim your prize package. The subject of the email should read, Day 9 Winner!Day 10 giveaway will be posted shortly!Day 10 giveaway is from Pet Pals! Very nice paw theme picture frame that holds a 4x6 photo! Tomorrow - is Woofs & Waves!!!! Do NOT want to miss that!!!*******For additional entry into Day 10 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 10 giveaway, the answer to the following question........... does your dog(s) get a wrapped Christmas present?!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Day 9 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sun, 10 Dec 2017 00:23:00 GMT

Ericka Erickson are the WINNER of Day 8 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com to claim your prize package. The subject of the email should read, Day 8 Winner!Day 9 is from Pet Pals. A wooden piece that says, "Meow"! Can be displayed on a shelf, desk, hung on a wall, so many options for this!*******For additional entries into Day 9 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 9 giveaway, the answer to the following question........... what is your cats favorite activity?!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Day 7 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 20:53:00 GMT

Tiffany Santema are the WINNER of Day 6 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com and please include your mailing address. The subject of the email should read, Day 6 Winner! Day 7 giveaway is from Jessica Clary - Keller Williams Realty Sioux Falls!!! This awesome package is valued at $85!!! SAAAAY WHAAAAT!!!!! Includes: Dog Treat Recipe Book, Treat Jar, AND Dog Activity Tracker!!! Reminder on Jessica's food drive going on tonight! Here is the link to the event! https://www.facebook.com/events/716003418590152/ ! ***For additional entries into Day 7 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 7 giveaway the answer to the following question, .......... If you could live anywhere, where would you live?!! ps. if you are moving or need a new home check out Jessica Clary - Keller Williams Realty Sioux Falls - if no need currently, go give her some Facebook love by liking her page!!!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Day 6 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 01:18:00 GMT

Teresa Anderson you are the WINNER of Day 5 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com and please include your mailing address. The subject of the email should read, Day 5 Winner! Pet Pals was informed of another animal food drive that supports the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society!!! Here is the link to the event! https://www.facebook.com/events/716003418590152/ Another Holiday food drive is Pet Pals AniMeals food drive!!!! https://www.facebook.com/events/135923320508171/Please join Pet Pals, Paws and Reflect Grooming and AniMeals for the AniMeals food drive open house at Paws and Reflect Grooming on December 9, 2017 from 1-3pm. During this open house bring any item on the wish list with your dog(s) and your dog(s) will receive a FREE nail trim and a goody bag from Pet Pals! ALL of the donations received STAY in Sioux Falls and are delivered by volunteers for AniMeals on Wheels clients. Help spread the word!!Wish List, Cat Food:Purina Complete Cat ChowPurina Indoor and Indoor with Hairball ControlIams Proactive Health indoor weight and hairballMeow Mix Dry (Original and Seafood)Meow Mix TendersFancy Feast Chicken or Turkey in GravyFriskies canned food cases:Classic PateShredsWish List, Litter:Clumping Litter (Tidy Cat/other)Tidy Cat Instant Action (blue cap)Arm & Hammer Clump & SealSlideWish List, Dog Food:Purina Complete Dog FoodPurina Dog Chow Small DogPurina OnePurina (or other) Grain Free dryPurina Beyond Small BreedIams Mini-ChunksPure Balance Chicken and Brown RiceAny dry dog food chicken basedCanned dog food with gravy (Alpo, etc)We have some pet owners who feed a variety of dry and canned food, so other brands are also welcome.******Day 6 giveaway!!!!*****You DO see that right!!! Your very own Pet Pals playing cards AND $20 CASH from Pet Pals!!!! ***For additional entries into Day 6 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 6 giveaway, ........... your favorite animal rescue organization!!! Lets show them some love!!!

Day 4 - Pet Pals 7th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 21:26:00 GMT

You all are blowing the Christmas Stockings off of the mantel this year!!!! The smile on my face (Pet Pal Keli) is ear to ear and nothing can wipe this smile off! Thank you dearly for your participation and sharing the love with your friends! Brenda Jewell you are the WINNER of Day 3 giveaway!! Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com and please include your mailing address. The subject of the email should read, Day 3 Winner! Yesterday we talked about Pet Pals and Paws and Reflect Pet Grooming AniMeals food drive. I personally, Pet Pal Keli, wanted to let you know about the open house this Saturday and extend the invite to you! Here is the link to the AniMeals Food Drive Event. (https://www.facebook.com/events/135923320508171/) If you click interested or going on the AniMeals Facebook event, you will receive a reminder from Facebook about the event. Don't forget - during this open house FREE dog nail trimming (see below or the link for details)Please join Pet Pals, Paws and Reflect Grooming and AniMeals for the AniMeals food drive open house at Paws and Reflect Grooming on December 9, 2017 from 1-3pm. During this open house bring any item on the wish list with your dog(s) and your dog(s) will receive a FREE nail trim and a goody bag from Pet Pals! ALL of the donations received STAY in Sioux Falls and are delivered by volunteers for AniMeals on Wheels clients. Help spread the word!!Wish List, Cat Food:Purina Complete Cat ChowPurina Indoor and Indoor with Hairball ControlIams Proactive Health indoor weight and hairballMeow Mix Dry (Original and Seafood)Meow Mix TendersFancy Feast Chicken or Turkey in GravyFriskies canned food cases:Classic PateShredsWish List, Litter:Clumping Litter (Tidy Cat/other)Tidy Cat Instant Action (blue cap)Arm & Hammer Clump & SealSlideWish List, Dog Food:Purina Complete Dog FoodPurina Dog Chow Small DogPurina OnePurina (or other) Grain Free dryPurina Beyond Small BreedIams Mini-ChunksPure Balance Chicken and Brown RiceAny dry dog food chicken basedCanned dog food with gravy (Alpo, etc)We have some pet owners who feed a variety of dry and canned food, so other brands are also welcome.Day 4 giveaway!!!! Super sleek picture frame provided by Pet Pals! Reminder of rules and guidelines of this giveaway:Do you have all your Christmas decorations up?! ***For additional entry into Day 4 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 4 giveaway, a picture of your Christmas tree!***

AniMeals Food Drive Event

AniMeals Facebook event

Day 2 - 7th Annual Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Sat, 02 Dec 2017 14:30:00 GMT

WOW!!! and WOW!!! and WOWOWOW!!! You all made Day 1 unforgettable!!!!Day 1 WINNER is.......Abbey E. Jacobs!!!!Please email Pet Pals at info@HirePetPals.com. The subject of the email should read, Day 1 Winner! Day 1 giveaway item is from Pet Pals, LLC! This beautiful wall art is up for grabs!For additional entry into Day 2 giveaway, comment on Pet Pals Facebook page under Day 2 giveaway, a picture of your cat or cats!Good Luck and THANK YOU again for being here!!!!

Pet Pals Facebook page

Rules and Guidelines - 7th Annual Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaway

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 21:16:00 GMT

Rules and Guidelines: if not all rules and guidelines are followed below, your name will not be put in the drawing.Also, if you are the WINNER be certain to claim your prize within 3 days or you will forfeit your prize.

Day 18 - Pet Pals 6th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaways

Fri, 23 Dec 2016 04:11:00 GMT

Did these days go fast, or what?!!! I cannot believe there is only 2 giveaways left! Each and everyone of you have made this such a great time!!!!! Here is Day 18!For your chance to WIN Day 18.....Head over to Pet Pals Facebook page, look for the picture below and simply click "like" to be entered. Also, continue to read this blog post for additional entries into the drawing. Super Cute Wall Art!!!For 3 additional entries into Day 18 giveaway......post a picture of your pet kid(s) under the Day 18 picture on Pet Pals Faecbook page! Show off and BRAG about those sweet babies!!!! Don't forget to remind yourself of the rules and guidelines for the Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaways.

Pet Pals

Day 17 - Pet Pals 6th Annual 19 Days of Christmas Giveaways

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 22:19:00 GMT

For your chance to WIN Day 17.....Head over to Pet Pals Facebook page, look for the picture below and simply click "like" to be entered. Also, continue to read this blog post for additional entries into the drawing. Wild Water West tickets!!!! For additional entries into Day 17 giveaway......for every friend you tag in the comments on Pet Pals Facebook under the Day 17 photo, you will get 1 additional entry for EACH FRIEND TAGGED!!!!Don't forget to remind yourself of the rules and guidelines for the Pet Pals 19 Days of Christmas Giveaways.

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