A Guide to Making the Moving Process Comfortable for Your Dog

September 22, 2019September 22, 2019

WRITTEN BY JESSICA BRODY OF OUR BEST FRIENDS

Looking for a new home that will fit you and your furry family member? You’re definitely not alone in that pursuit! More and more people are considering their dogs when preparing and planning for a move. So, to make the process easier, we’ve assembled a two-part guide that will help you find a pawsitively amazing new home and avoid problems during your move.

How to Plan and Prepare for a Move With Your Dog

Rent Before You Buy to Find Your Perfect New Home

Okay, so it may not make sense to rent a house or apartment when you are looking to buy. However, spending some time in a vacation rental is a great way for you and your pup to try out new neighborhoods in Miami. Check out sites such as Turnkey to find vacation rentals in pet-friendly areas of town. You can easily find a list of available rentals by adding the dates you wish to stay and number of guests. Just make sure that the rental you choose permits pets.

Wherever you stay, not only can you get a feel for nearby dog-friendly parks, pubs, and cafes, but you can also test-drive dog-friendly features in pet-friendly vacation homes. Be sure to jot down what you loved dog apartment about each home and which features were lacking. Maybe you lucked out and scored a place with a dog wash station that would make life easier, or perhaps you discovered that having a fenced-in backyard is a must. Keep track of this list and use it to narrow your home search when the time comes.

Plan Your Move Ahead of Time to Avoid Added Stress

Once you know where you will be moving with your dog, you can start planning your move. You may even want to find a local pet company to hang out with your dog during the actual move. True, you could rely on family or friends, but by booking a daycare or boarding appointment, you’re guaranteed to find someone experienced in keeping pets safe and happy.

If you will be moving to a different city, state or even country, there are some additional planning steps to complete. For cross-country moves, you definitely want to map out each leg of your trip, so you can plan for potty breaks and meal stops along the way. Planning ahead should also include researching dog-friendly hotels, as well as any breed-specific legislation you need to be aware of along your route.

HOW TO HELP YOUR DOG STAY CALM DURING YOUR MOVE

TRY TO KEEP THINGS AS COMFORTABLE AND FAMILIAR AS POSSIBLE

Dogs love routines and being around familiar sights, sounds, and smells. So, as you prepare for moving day, try to keep these things in mind. During your travels and first days in the new home, provide your dog with the same daily routine you kept before, or at least minimize stress caused by changes. Ease your dog into any new activities, like riding in the car or walking on a crowded street, in order to lessen their anxiety about the move. To keep your dog from stressing out, you can also bring along some favorite toys or blankets, which can provide a sense of comfort during trips and moves.

TAKE SOME TIME OFF TO HELP YOUR DOG ADJUST TO YOUR NEW HOME

The one thing that will always help your dog feel better is spending time with you! moving with dog So, if you can swing it, try to take a few days off after your move to hang out with your pup. Having some extra time will allow you to get unpacked faster, plus you can go out and explore your new neighborhood with your dog. Schedule some time to take your dog for long walks and introduce yourself to new people along the way. If your dog is socially awkward, think about using some training tips to make meeting new dogs and people less stressful for you both.

You only want the best for your best friend, so make sure you plan accordingly for your big move. Try to take as many steps as possible to curb your dog’s anxiety while keeping your stress levels low, too. After all, your dog can pick up on your emotions, so staying calm during your home search and move can help keep you both happy and healthy.

Just moved to town and looking for a local Miami pet groomer or pet boarding facility? Book your appointment with Scottie Paws today!

Special thanks for the above to our guest blogger: Jessica Brody, Our Best Friends

Your Guide to Introducing a New Cat Into Your Home

April 29, 2019April 21, 2019

Have you been thinking about introducing a new cat into your home? Do you want to make the transition as smooth as possible? Are you worried about how this will affect your home’s other residents– your cat, dog, or baby?

Our friends at FIGO Pet Insurance have put together this excellent guide on how best to introduce a new cat to your home and its residents– feline, canine, and human.

Cat Transitions created by FIGO Pet Insurance.

How To Brush Your Pet: 3 Easy Tips from the Pros

April 15, 2019April 21, 2019

We hear it a lot. “My dog doesn’t like to be brushed” or “my dog doesn’t let me brush him/her”. But when they come in for a grooming session, they let us brush them just fine! Well, we’re going to let you in on a little bit of groomer magic for how to keep your pet brushed and tangle-free at home!

Most dogs like to be brushed (and some, like our shop mascots, LOVE being brushed). Like with anything else when training your pet, they have to get used to being brushed regularly. Make brushing a regular part of your and your dog’s routine with these three easy tips from our team of pros!

1. Establish some “ground” rules.

Dogs live most of their lives on the floor. This is where they eat and play, where they run and roll around, and where they feel most comfortable and in control. When it’s time for brushing, you’ll want to remove them from this setting so that you can have full control. If your dog is too heavy to be safely carried off the ground, designate a special spot that the two of you can use when it’s time to get serious about brushing.

At Scottie Paws, we have a grooming table and loops to help us; at home, we’ll need to get creative. Place a towel or mat on your washer and place your dog on top. You can also use a chair, table, ottoman… really anywhere that is safe and off the floor.*

*NEVER leave your dog unattended when brushing.

2. Use the right tools and techniques for your pet.

Proper brushing tools are important! A proper tool is a slicker brush or any brush that doesn’t have the little balls on the end because this causes the hair to break off and thus pulls on the coat. Pets don’t like their hair being pulled!

Adding a comb to their brushing routine is also a good idea. Sometimes a brush is very superficial and doesn’t really go all the way to the skin but a comb does this job perfectly. I always like to go over with a comb after brushing my dogs and the comb always catches any tangles.

If your pet has a lot of hair or long hair, it is best to break up the hair in sections or parting the hair just like you would a human. This enables you to fully brush out your pet. I use hair clips (like for humans) to hold the sections/parting in place.

3. Treats, treats, treats!

Getting your pet used to brushing takes time! Be patient and be sure to use positive reinforcement to take brushing from “chore” to “fun”. Speak softly and use positive words while brushing. When you’re done, reward them with their favorite treat. This way, they associate brushing with treats and bonding time!

When it’s time to bring in the pros, book your pet grooming appointment at Scottie Paws Pet Resort!

Basic Tips for Being the Best Pet Owner You Can Be

February 12, 2019April 20, 2019

Written by Jessica Brody of Our Best Friends

If you’ve decided to become a pet owner for the first time, you’re in for an adventure. While there is a lot to consider in terms of preparation and lifestyle, it is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. In order to ensure you’re the best owner you can possibly be, we’ve put together a few tips to make this process smoother.

The Pet

Once you’ve realized you want a pet, you must decide what type and breed to get. There are some factors to consider that will help ensure you choose the right pet for you and your family:

How large is your home and yard? Yes, technically you can live with an Irish Wolfhound in your one-bedroom apartment, but will you and your dog really be happy as lamps and are knocked over and doorways blocked? If your home is smaller, perhaps something like a Cocker Spaniel or a cat would be more practical. Also, consider the energy level of the pet. When they require exercise, a larger yard comes in useful. If you don’t have an adequate area for them to run around, or you aren’t within a reasonable distance to a park, choose an animal that doesn’t require a lot of movement.

What is your schedule like? If you live by yourself and work until late every day, a dog is probably not the pet you need. Dogs require more attention and playtime than some other animals (cats, fish, guinea pigs, etc.). However, if your family and can delegate tasks such as playtime and walks, a dog is the perfect companion to add to the family.

Allergies, anyone? It’s also important to consider whether anybody in the family has allergies. Despite the myth, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog or cat. Also, each pet is different, so whether they cause allergy symptoms isn’t necessarily dependent on the type and breed. Animals that are non-shedding or hairless are typically wise options for an allergic household, and vigilant cleaning is a necessity. Furthermore, regular grooming can go a long way in reducing allergic reactions.

The Home

Once you’ve chosen a pet, it’s important to prepare your home before the arrival. You want to make sure you remove any choking hazards from the floor, keep medications and cleaning chemicals out of reach, hide electrical cords, and so on. It’s also good to have the pet’s living area determined before they arrive. Make sure they have enough space to be comfortable, but not so much that they feel isolated from the rest of the family.

Also, plan to do a lot more cleaning, vacuuming, and dusting than you used to. Many people find that it’s worth the investment to hire professionals to clean their carpet and rugs. For instance, it cost homeowners in Miami, Florida, an average of $171 for a carpet cleaning. If you want to keep your furniture in good condition, look at the cost of upholstery cleaning.

The Acclimation

Once they come home, expect the acclimation process to take some time. You can help your pet settle in by bringing some of their old items into the home. Also, it’s essential that each person in the family understands their responsibilities when it comes to caring for the pet. This will not only ensure the pet gets fed, walked, and played with each day, but it will also help each person form a special bond with the pet. Pets value routine, so making sure everyone is consistent with their tasks will prove to the pet that they can depend on you.

dog grooming miami

If you’re thinking about getting a pet, you probably should. Just make sure you consider all the factors (size of the property, schedules, allergies, etc.) when choosing what type and breed to bring home. Also, be sure to prepare your home before the arrival so that it’s comfortable and safe for the pet. Finally, take steps to help the pet acclimate to their new environment so that bonds are formed and everyone is happy!

Special thanks for the above to our guest blogger: Jessica Brody, Our Best Friends

Puppy’s First Groom: What You Need to Know

November 2, 2018April 20, 2019

Congrats on your new puppy! Having a puppy in the house is exciting, fun, and full of new experiences. What you teach your puppy now will follow them into adulthood, so it’s important to set them up for success. There’s lots to consider regarding puppy grooming, so below are our recommendations for ensuring a top-notch first grooming experience so that your pup learns to love his groomer!

First, how old should the puppy be before being groomed?

Puppies should be 12 weeks or older and in good health before being groomed for the first time. So, what do you do before then if your pup gets dirty? Use puppy wipes! We recommend Nature’s Miracle puppy wipes in particular. Remember to always adhere to the age restrictions on the packaging and avoid contact with the eyes.

A positive Pet spa experience actually begins at home.

Step one in a positive pet spa experience is getting your pup used to being handled the way a groomer would. Gently handle their paws, ears, face, belly, and tail. Groomers need to be able to trim nails, clean ears, shave bellies, and trim the fur around the face, ears, and tail. Gently teaching your pup that it’s okay to be handled will make their experience (and the groomer’s job!) that much better.

Not only will this process help your dog while at the groomer’s, but it’ll help make vet visits less stressful as well.

Step two is regular brushing. Whether your puppy is long-haired or short-haired, beginning the brushing habit early will ensure they learn to enjoy it as adults. Not to mention, regular brushing can also keep their skin and coat healthy, and prevent matting!

go slow and steady.

Give plenty of exercise before puppy’s first groom!

Grooming spas can be loud places with all sorts of fresh smells and contraptions, and a new human. It can be a scary place for a new pup! But teaching your pup early that grooming spas are actually fun places with awesome people (and tasty treats!) can have lasting effects into adulthood. When introducing them to the grooming salon for the first time, start slow.

At Scottie Paws, we recommend building up to a full grooming session. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Give them plenty of exercise beforehand.

A long walk or playtime beforehand will get rid of some of their excess energy and make for a less anxious visit.

2. speak softly and Provide treats upon arrival.

Words of encouragement and a treat when they come in the door can go a long way– and every pup loves being told they’re a good boy or girl!

3. Keep the first visit short and Work your way up.

Bring them in for just a bath first, then a quick trim. Work your way up to nail trims and full haircuts. By the time it’s time for that haircut, they’ll be used to the sights, sounds, and smells of the salon.

Don’t wait too long to start a good habit.

One mistake we see too often is pet parents that wait a long time to bring their puppy in for their first visit. Bring them in as soon as they reach the 12 week mark and have their shots! The sooner the better when it comes to grooming.

stay calm, and keep it short and sweet.

Most groomers will expect one-on-one time with your pup. Why? Because dogs can act up when their owners are around, creating an unsafe environment for themselves and the grooming staff. We know it can be hard to be away from your pup, especially when they’re in a new environment. Stay calm. Dogs can sense your feelings; if you’re nervous, they’ll be nervous! Keep your exit short and sweet to minimize their anxiety and raise a more confident dog.

Research, research, research.

Finding the right grooming salon for your pet is an important part of the process. Look at their website, read their requirements and specifications, check their reviews and referrals. Give them a call and ask questions; your potential new groomer should happily guide you through the process. When you’re ready, make that first bathing appointment and plan to drop in a bit ahead of your appointment to see the place for yourself. Does it smell good and look clean? Are pets supervised while being kennel dried? Do they use heated dryers, which can be dangerous?

At Scottie Paws, we believe in full transparency and proudly groom our customers in the front of the shop. We will also happily provide a tour of our space, showing you the bathing and drying areas as well. We only ask that you please exercise caution and listen to the instructions of our staff at all times– this is for your safety, as we do work with live animals.

Tell your groomer about any haircut specifics, as well as any medical or behavioral issues your pup may have. This will help the groomer best prepare and accommodate your pup’s needs!

Remember, your relationship with your groomer is based on mutual trust and love, and it will be a relationship you’ll be in for the rest of your dog’s life. Choose a salon that best fits your needs and those of your pup, and teach them early on that the groomer is their friend!

Ready for puppy’s first groom? We hope to see you soon!

3 Easy Tips to Keep Your Pet’s Fur Mat-Free

September 2, 2018

In the world of pet grooming, we often have to say things that customers don’t want to hear. The most common? “Your dog is too matted for that cute haircut. We have to shave it.” We get it. You come in looking for a trim for your pet and we basically tell you we have no choice but to cut it all off. We don’t want to have to shave your dog completely, but sometimes we don’t have a choice. It’s disappointing for you, and it’s disappointing for us.

But that’s not all. Matting is hard on your dog, too. Matted fur can pull skin and cause irritation, prevent your pup from properly self-grooming, hide sores, trap dirt, bugs, and odors, and can ultimately prove painful for your pet when the time comes to remove the matting. We’ve seen some awful cases of severely matted pets! Don’t let your dog be one of them by following these seven easy steps.

1. Brush your dog (and cat!) regularly.

Pets with shorter hair may only need brushing once a week; for longer-haired pets, they may need to be brushed daily or every other day. Make it a part of your pet’s routine!

Different brushes for different coats

Regular brushing can also help with early detection of skin issues, help with shedding by removing loose hair (trust us- better to collect that shedded fur on your brush than your floor!), and helps distribute their natural oils for a shiny, healthy coat.

While many pets love being brushed, if yours is nervous, let them sniff the brush or comb first, provide treats, speak softly, and keep sessions short at first. With time, you’ll be able to increase brushing time until it becomes a favorite activity!

2. remove small tangles when you find them.

Small tangles eventually become big ones, so get rid of them when you first find them! If you can’t work out a knot with your hands or gently brush it out with your comb, carefully cut it out.

3. have your pet professionally groomed regularly.

In addition to regular brushing, your pet will benefit from regular grooming. A professional bath with pet-specific detangling shampoos and conditioners, a complete brush-out, and a fresh haircut go a long way in keeping your pet’s coat clean, shiny, and healthy.

A healthy dog is a happy dog!

If your dog or cat is already matted, even just a little bit, take them to the groomer for a shave-down and start fresh. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse! We know many of our pet parents love keeping their dogs and cats long-haired but a proper trim or shave is sometimes the only option for severely matted pets. So their hair may be shorter than you like for a bit– that’s okay! The hair will grow back and, through proper maintenance, you’ll be enjoying your pet’s silky long hair in no time!

Remember…

With severely matted pets, a shave-down will be the most humane option. Heavy mats pull at the skin, and attempting to brush them out will be a long and painful process for your pet. To prevent this from happening, remember to properly maintain your pet’s coat!

Ready to call in the pros?

The Essential Guide to Cat Grooming [INFOGRAPHIC]

July 22, 2018July 29, 2018

This week, we’re bringing you this awesome infographic on cat grooming. Remember, if you’re looking for cat grooming in Miami, Scottie Paws has you covered!

Let’s start with a knowledge check. True or false: cats groom themselves and never need professional grooming.

Click to Enlarge

The answer? Both true and false! While cats are great self-groomers, they do need help sometimes. This week, we’re tackling cat grooming best practices — and including a great infographic for you, too!

Let’s start with brushing

Brushing has a lot of great benefits for your feline friend. Because brushing is enjoyed by many (but not all) cats, it helps strengthen the physical bond between the two of you. Beyond that, it also has several great health and beauty benefits, including increased blood flow and shinier fur. Brushing also helps remove dead hair, dirt, dust, and fleas, and can prevent hairballs!

Tools

De-shedding combs with alternating teeth (found at Scottie Paws!)
Slicker brush
Alternative for nervous kitties: grooming glove!

Brushing short haired cats

Brush once a week
Use comb and start head to tail
Use slicker brush for chest and belly (if the cat allows it!)

Brushing long-haired cats

Brush daily to prevent matting
Use comb for lets and belly (if the cat allows it!)
Use slicker brush on the rest of the body, brushing upward to fluff the hair
For the tail, gently brush down the length of the tail
Gently detangle any knots you find

We all know the saying “curiosity killed the cat”. Cats are curious by nature, so be sure to let your cat inspect the brushes before using them. Be gentle when brushing and listen to your cat! If they are uncomfortable or don’t allow you to brush a certain section — like the belly — stop.

More serious matting may require the help of a professional groomer. And you’re in luck! Scottie Paws in Miami offers cat grooming to help your feline friend look and feel their best.

Pawdicures

Regular nail trims are an important part of cat grooming. Not only will it save your furniture and hands during playtime, but nail trims will also help prevent snagging. If your cat does snag their nail on something, they can hurt themselves when trying to break free.

Tools

cat grooming in miami

Small pet nail clipper or file
Scratching posts — scratching is a natural and normal cat behavior, and providing designated scratching posts will save your furniture!
Styptic pencil

Clipping your cat’s nails

Wait for your cat to be relaxed. When I started clipping my cat’s nails at home, I waited for her to be asleep or in chill mode.
Position kitty with their butt in your lap and their back to you (like a sitting baby)
Cat claws are retractable. In order to reveal the claw, gently squeeze the paw just behind the nail.
When looking at the nail, you’ll see the quick, a reddish triangle inside the nail. Avoid this and clip a bit above that area.
Clipping the quick is painful so be careful! If you do clip it accidentally, use a styptic pencil to stop the bleeding.
Provide treats and pets when done

You may not be able to clip all the nails in one go. That’s okay! Take it slow and do only what the cat will allow.

Skip declawing

Nails are a natural first line of defense for cats. Declawing removes not just the nail but the entire first knuckle — imagine living without the first knuckle on all your fingers and toes! Because you’re removing an important defense, declawed cats can display increased signs of aggression, including biting and hissing.

Scratching posts, regular nail trims, and even cat nail caps are a great, healthy alternative to declawing.

You may prefer to hire a professional to trim your cat’s nails. Professional groomers know all the right techniques to provide a quick and effective nail trim, and keeps you from having to do it. When looking for cat grooming in Miami, give Scottie Paws a call!

Cat Baths

I know what you’re thinking. You’ve watched your cat carefully lick themselves for hours, how could they possibly need a bath?

cat grooming miami While it’s true that cats have special tools to keep themselves clean (their tongues actually have “spines” made of keratin — just like human nails!), there comes a time when kitty may need an extra hand. If you need to get something off your cat’s coat — like if, for example, they rubbed on something potentially toxic — or if you have an obese kitty who can’t fully groom themselves, bath-time may be the best solution.

Tools

Non-slip mat to keep them from slipping
Cat-specific shampoo. Check the label — not all pet shampoos are safe for our feline friends

Bathing your cat

Ensure your cat’s nails are trimmed and they’ve been brushed ahead of their bath. Use a cup or pitcher to wet your cat’s coat with warm water. Pro-tip: if it feels hot to you, it’s too hot for your cat. Lather their body and be careful to avoid their eyes, ears, and face.

I’ll be honest — bathing a cat is hard! It is made easier with the help of a second person or with the help of a grooming professional.

As with all grooming, it is best to expose your cat to it when they’re young, whether you’re doing it yourself or leaving it to the pros. Keep sessions short, provide treats and praise, and make the experience a happy one!

How To Choose the Right Cat Boarding Facility

July 6, 2018August 2, 2018

cat boarding miami

How to Choose the Right Cat Boarding Facility

We always want the best for our furry friends, and picking a cat boarding facility can be a tough job. You’ve spent a bunch of time Googling pet boarding in Miami, reading reviews, and trying to figure out which one is going to make your cat happiest in your absence. As a cat owner myself, I know the feeling! That’s why I’m sharing some of my top tips for choosing the right cat boarding facility.

It all starts with a tour…

Don’t bother calling ahead; you want to see what the place is like on any given day! Ask them for a look around. A good facility should have nothing to hide, and will gladly give you a tour. Remember to keep your hands out of kennels and suites for your own safety, and stay out of the way of other employees at work.

Take a whiff…

As much as we love our pets, no one wants to walk into a place that smells like old cat urine. Take a deep breath. Does it smell like it hasn’t been cleaned in a while? Keep in mind, because you’re going in unannounced, it IS possible that a pet has just used the restroom and is contributing to the smell. It happens! Check to see if an employee is going to clean it up.

Ask some important questions…

Not sure what those questions should be? At Scottie Paws, we get a number of questions about cat boarding and have answered the most frequently asked ones below. If you’re not located near us, feel free to use these questions to help your search!

1. Is there a special space for cats, like suites or enclosures?

At Scottie Paws, we offer both kennels and specialty cat enclosures, complete with a cat house (a favorite among our feline friends!).

2. What’s the emergency protocol? Is there a designated emergency vet?

We monitor all pets for signs of illness, and you can bet we will call you immediately if an emergency arises. We will also take your cat to an emergency vet if necessary.

3. What’s the cleaning schedule? What products are used?

We clean daily and after any pet accidents that occur using specialty, pet-safe cleaning products cat boarding miami made specifically for grooming salons to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. Suites, enclosures, and kennels are deep-cleaned between stays as well.

We also use only our own stainless steel bowls for food and water, which are swapped out and washed twice daily. Why? Plastic bowls harbor bacteria and can cause acne in pets; stainless bowls do not.

4. What’s the feeding schedule?

We provide feedings twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. If your pet has special needs, we will work to accommodate them!

5. How often is litter scooped?

We scoop litter twice daily – once in the morning, and once in the evening.

6. Is brushing or one-on-one playtime offered?

Of course! You can also add on any cat grooming services so your kitty goes home fresh and clean.

7. Can I bring my own bedding, litter, and toys?

cat boarding miami

Absolutely! Boarding can be stressful, and we want your cat to feel as comfortable as possible. The familiar smell of their own bed, toys, and litter will reduce stress and remind them of their home and their favorite person in the universe- YOU!

In order to keep our air fresh, we ask that you please bring clumping litter.

Now that you know what to look for, we hope you choose Scottie Paws, located in Miami, FL for your cat’s next boarding stay. We would love to have you!

Don’t Be a Statistic: 5 Pet Safety Tips for the 4th of July

June 29, 2018June 29, 2018

5 pet safety tips for the 4th of july

Did you know that July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters? It’s true! According to American Humane, more pets are lost on the 4th of July than any other. Dogs and cats afraid of the fireworks flee their homes and are often found many miles away, exhausted and too disoriented to find their way back home. Focus on your pet’s safety this 4th of July with our 5 easy to follow tips, and don’t be another July 5th statistic.

1. Let Fido skip the fireworks.

It’s so tempting to bring our pups along to enjoy the view, but pet safety is important. Noisy fireworks are enough to spook even the most confident of dogs! Keep your dogs and cats safe, and bring them inside before the fireworks show starts!

Remember, a dog can hear sounds up to four times farther than humans. So, when that fireworks show starts, even if it sounds pretty far away to you, it will be much louder (and scarier) to your dog!

2. Thundershirts and calming sprays are your best friend’s best friend.

If your dog is anxious about loud noises, it’s okay! There are many great options out there, including Thundershirts and, our personal favorite, PetzLife’s @-Eaze, a fast-acting, all-natural anti-anxiety gel to add to your dog’s food 1-hour before the stressful event (available for sale at Scottie Paws!). We love the ease and calming effects of @-Eaze, and highly recommend it for your pet.

3. Leave the TV on. Yes, we’re serious.

A little white noise, like a TV show or the radio, can help drown out the sound of fireworks. Treat them to a little Animal Planet or your favorite cartoon- it can help!

4. CHECK THOSE COLLAR TAGS AND MICROCHIPS.

It never hurts to double check your pet’s tags and microchips. If they’re chipped, be sure the chip record is up to date with your contact information. Ensure both your dogs and cats are wearing their collars with up to date rabies and ID tags. If they accidentally get out of your home and are picked up by a shelter or a good samaritan, these tags are the best way to make sure you’re reunited with your bestie.

5. SKIP THE DOGGY BAG.

It’s hard to say no to puppy dog eyes. Believe me, we have to do it all the time (and hate it every time!). But saying no to all that tasty human food can save your dog’s life- and their stomach. Bone shards can cause serious damage to a dog’s intestinal tract, and those burgers and hot dogs can cause diarrhea. Pick up some tasty dog treats at your local pet store to combat those puppy eyes and skip the doggy bag!

From all of us here at Scottie Paws, we hope you and your pets have a safe and happy 4th of July!

What You Need to Know About Traveling With Your Dog

June 25, 2018June 27, 2018

Let’s Talk About Traveling with our Dogs

We love adventuring with our dogs! Seeing them explore new sites, smell new smells, and meet new people (and dogs!) fills our hearts with joy. But there’s a lot to consider before deciding to take your furry friend with you. Read on for everything you need to know about traveling with your dog!

The Basics

I frequently embark on crazy road trips where I have to take my dog and cat. You should see my packing list!

Remember to consider your own pet’s special needs, like medicines, as well as the length and destination of the trip. If traveling with my dog somewhere cold or snowy, for example, I always pack her jacket and a jar of Musher’s Secret for her paws.

HOTELS

The good news: there are many pet-friendly hotels out there. The bad news: hotel policies can vary in strictness and cost. Let’s take a deeper dive.

Did you know that some hotels restrict based on size? Many only allow dogs under 25lbs. For those of us with medium, large, or XL pups, the options are more limited. If traveling with more than one dog (or a cat!), be sure to check with the individual hotel as some don’t allow more than one pet in the room.

What about other requirements? Some hotels require that your dog remain crated while they’re alone in the room, if they allow the dog alone at all. Also, many hotels will not provide housekeeping service if your dog is alone and/or uncrated. If you don’t mind re-using your towel a couple of times (it’s great for the environment!), this may not be a deal-breaker, but its definitely something to consider.

And then there’s cost. Many hotels require a pet fee which can vary from a one-time fee to daily charges. There are some hotels that do offer free stays for your dogs, however. These include Aloft Hotels, La Quinta Inn and Suites, and Kimpton Hotels, which has one of the most adorably pet-friendly policies out there.

Always call your hotel directly to verify their pet policies BEFORE deciding to take your pet!

ACTIVITIES

Alright. So you’re packed and your pet-friendly hotel is booked. What about when you get there? If you’re taking a trip to somewhere that is not dog-friendly and is an all day activity, like a theme park, it’s best to leave Rover at home unless you’ve found a local doggie daycare that will take him for the day. Leaving your dog locked in a strange place without you all day may make even the most relaxed dogs anxious, which can lead to unusual or destructive behavior, like forgetting their potty-training or chewing up that hotel remote (oops).

Are you vacation plans more outdoor focused? Awesome! Read up on the leash rules and pet friendliness of your destination. It may seem surprising, but dogs aren’t always welcome at beaches, national parks, and hiking trails. If they are, remember to keep your dog on a leash to avoid injury or loss, and to prevent them from potentially hurting wildlife or damaging trails. It can be tempting to let your dog off-leash in these areas, but the unfamiliar smells can cause them to run off and the terrain can be dangerous. Remember to pick up after them!

What about city-specific trips? Some cities are definitely more dog-friendly than others, and may allow you to eat with your dog on an outdoor patio, come into stores, and I’ve even come across dog-friendly boat tours! I think walking is one of the best ways to explore a new city, and I love enjoying the views with my dog at my side. When there are some non-dog-friendly sights on your trip, make a plan to get back to the hotel for a midday dog walk and playtime.

DOG BOARDING

Okay, okay. So this section is about choosing to travel without your dog instead of traveling with them. It’s definitely something to consider, however, when planning your next vacation. Let’s face it- sometimes bringing your pet along with you is not the best option for either of you, so it’s worth exploring the alternatives.

Dog boarding is a great way to ensure your dog is safe and cared for in your absence. It will help most closely mimic their routine, and, if the facility offers daycare (like Scottie Paws, which offers grooming, boarding, and daycare in Miami!), it can even help them burn some energy while you’re away.

The best thing about boarding? You can enjoy your time off knowing that your pup is in good hands!