News!

Pet sitting software

*Exciting news!*

For your convenience Fresh Air Pet Services is now offering clients the option to utilize the ever powerful and easy pet sitting software by Time To Pet!
For more information, read in depth description on all the features now available to you here:
(https://www.timetopet.com/pet-sitting-customer-portal)
I'm so excited to provide this computer and mobile app platform for my customers.

Some of the neat features for you include:

-Schedule services online
-Fill out a very simple form with feeding and medicine instructions, emergency and vet contacts and pet health notes
-Quickly update information regarding your household (is something being repaired at the house that requires a different process than previously discussed? Is your pet injured and need special care during my visit? Are you expecting a package that I need to be aware of?) 
-Communicate with me in the private chat room specifically assigned to you. 
-Are you curious where we went for a walk today? In addition to GPS enabled features, you will be updated when I check in and leave for each and every service.
-Additionally, you can view invoicing and I now can accept credit cards (or ACH/e-checks)!

Call 413.455.0083 or email freshairpetservices@gmail.com for your welcome email/portal instructions!

Pet Portraiture

I'm thrilled to announce the addition to my services, Pet Portraiture for Charity!

These packages are open to both existing and new Fresh Air Pet Services clients. And I am offering a $10 photo credit to be rewarded for current clients as a referral bonus!

Call 413-455-0083 or email freshairpetservices@gmail.com today to book a session or to learn more!

Capturing sweet and natural moments

Capturing sweet and natural moments

Muzzles for pets

"My dog has never bit anyone, why should I have a muzzle?"

There are many reasons why every pet parent should invest in a muzzle.

Pet professionals will agree, when in pain even the most docile, gentlest of pooches or kitties can bite (even their owners). It's just their way of saying, "I am in pain, I don't want you to touch me!" 

So let's say your dog has an unfortunate run-in with a pricker bush and you need to pull out the stuck barb.  Every time you attempt to get close to that area, it growls or shows you teeth, a muzzle would ensure that you stay safe while administering first aid.  

Our Sally really hates to getting her nails trimmed. I am almost certain she would never bite us, but just don't want to take any chances. Slipping on a muzzle with a slather some peanut butter inside for a strong distraction helps tremendously.

Your pet is clearly in distress, using a muzzle before conducting a full assessment will help prevent injuries to you.  This first step in first aid is to ensure YOUR safety!

When Greyhounds run in groups, you will always see them wearing muzzles.  It doesn't mean they're vicious.  (They're generally the total opposite!)  During the heat of the run, they become playful and excited, therefore Greys are known to 'nip' each other.  Because of their thin, delicate skin a small nick can easily become a long gash that may need stitches. You will see them with a style of muzzle called "basket muzzle".  This would be ideal for when your dog needs to eat and drink or when it's warm and they need to cool themselves.

If you were to ask any cat owner what their cute little fur balls hate the most, baths and nail clipping would be at the top of the list. You can prevent the cat from escaping by using the burrito blanket method but it does nothing to prevent bites. Why chance getting hurt when you can use a soft, mesh muzzle designed for feline faces?  Contrary to your first instinctual response, "oh no, my cat would absolutely freak out even more with a muzzle!"  But by covering the entire face, you may find it actually has the total opposite reaction. Think of how people use blinders for horses, cutting the visual stimulation can have a calming effect.

There are many muzzle designs, and other than pet preference, the features of the face will determine which one works best for your pet.  As mentioned before, dog basket muzzles are best for longer faces.  This will allow them to breathe normally, drink water, even eat.  There are muzzles especially designed for brachycephalic dog breeds (Pugs, Boston Terriers, etc)

Some things to remember about muzzles: 

Never use them if the pet is choking, experiencing trouble breathing, or having seizures.  

Always approach using a soothing, calm voice. Practice using the muzzle as much as possible to desensitize them to a foreign object on their face.

 

Search for muzzle types here

"Does anyone have a map?"

"Does anyone have a map?"

"Life without traffic lights"

"Life without traffic lights"

It's summertime!

Pet safety advisory

Hoo boy what a scorcher of a day! Heat related illnesses is serious business. ☀️

Signs of heatstroke can include uncontrollable panting, foaming at the mouth, vomiting and lethargy. Gums and tongue will initially look bright red but if not treated they can become blue or gray.

If your pet is showing signs of heat related illness, soak with water in a bath or hose. You can also soak dish towels with cold water and apply to their undersides. You can monitor their temperature using a thermometer.

Make sure your pets have access to plenty of water! Hold your hand down on the pavement. Can you keep it pressed for 10 seconds? If not, skip the walk and schedule short playtime in the shaded yard or park.

DSC_3116.JPG

What's that spot?

Pet safety tip

Did your pooch suddenly develop spots or little red rings on its underside?

Good news- although they are scary looking, chances are your dog was been bitten by black mayflies.

Of course as always, if your pup is acting abnormally and seems uncomfortable, please seek medical attention from the veterinarian.

From Belchertown Veterinary Hospital's Facebook Page:

"We are getting lots of calls, and people bringing photos and their animals in for these. These are blackfly bites, they are not something that requires treatment, not usually severely itchy, and very common this time of year."

Dental care!

Pet dental care

Got stinky breath? If you can see brown and yellow build up along the gum line, it's time to tackle the tarter!

Ask your butcher for turkey necks/chicken backs! When chewing, the bones provide a rough surface which aids in the removal of tarter.

Remember, supervision is always necessary as the pieces will become smaller.

Tip: Keep them frozen so they can enjoy their treats even longer

Helo cleaning up his back teeth with a turkey neck

Helo cleaning up his back teeth with a turkey neck

Vacation time is here!

Avoid the kennel, let your pet stay home

Planning on heading out to the beach this summer?
Avoid the stress (on them AND you!) of kennels or a new environment - I will take care of your loved ones in their home.

Call or email me to discuss how I can help with a vacation plan that's right for you and your family!

Let's go swimming!

Let's go swimming!

Storms

T-storms on their way!

The good news is you can help ease your pet's anxiety with the following products. Keep in mind these also can be helpful with separation anxiety, stress from travel, etc.

Thundershirts create a pressure sensation (think swaddling an infant, therapeutic weighted blankets) which can help ease anxiety.

(Herbal) Calming collars are generally made with soothing aromatics like lavender and chamomile.

There are also snacks infused with a natural blend of ingredients to help calm nerves.

Melatonin is a natural occurring hormone can help you furry friend (and humans!)

Rescue remedy contains a mixture of natural extracts that have been known to be useful as well.

As always, please consult with your veterinarian with any concerns or questions.

What have you used for your pets that's worked?

Greyhound Ranger cuddling with a blanket in a safe spot 

Greyhound Ranger cuddling with a blanket in a safe spot