****Socialized boarding is for happy dogs that need to have other dogs and humans to play and be sociable with. We use crates for sleeping and eating ONLY if necessary but we do not kennel any dog unless he/she needs seperation. Your dog will have the run of our home and yard. Choosing the right place to leave your pet while you are away is important. Home Sweet Home Pet Sitters are caring and dedicated to making sure your pet is supervised and in a clean, fun environment 24 hours a day. No agressive dogs please!
Jack and Calvin - BFF
****Make sure your pet wears an identification tag to enable him to be returned to you if lost. Address and phone number should be on a waterproof tag. Accidents happen no matter if your pet shelters are safe or your home is secure; always have your pet tagged. During boarding at Home Sweet Home we will use our tag for ID and we use play-safe collars for dogs that play hard.
****To prevent animal behavioral problems, enroll your new dog in behavioral training classes. See your local pet store for info.
****If you are using treats for good behavior and you notice your pet is gaining weight, replace the treat with an ear scratch along with a "good dog", and he/she will not miss the treat and learn from your positive action. Animal behavioral problems can be a health related or food related. After a complete medical exam by a veterinarian you find your pet has no medical issues, monitor his food intake; Junk food, garbage, cheap dog food can cause hyperactive dogs and long-term illness. Watch for kids, friends and relatives that feed your pet without your supervision.
****Teasing and constantly harassing your pet can cause him to act badly when you least expect it. Give your dog loving attention when he/she is calm and submissive.
****Learn how to avoid dog bites and how to prevent your dog from biting. Go to WWW.NoDogBites.org.
****A happy pet is a Spayed or Neutered pet.
****Collars should be loose enough to put two fingers inside the collar on each side of the neck. Choke collars should only be on the dog if you know your dog is in a safe environment. Always check to see if it is loose enough to put your hand inside.
****For dogs that need quick corrections, or might get loose - always have a collar and a loop leash on at all times. Use a leash attached to collar (can be short) or loop a longer leash like a handle - you will be able to catch a fast running dog.
Apolo after his bath, massage and brushing. October 2009
****Always have a First Aid station for your pet. First Aid tape, antibiotic cream, tweezers and shears, towel, hydrogen peroxide.
****Also prepare for disasters. Plan for your pet in the event of a hurricane, tornado, fire or flood. Plan for your pet's future in case something happens to you and visit WWW.hsus.org/petsinwills for more information. Your pet sitter should also have this information should an emergency arise.