Hey everybody!
Have you heard that pet adoptions have soared since the pandemic started? Many shelters were actually cleaned out. What a wonderful sight to see — rows of empty kennels because all of the animals found their ‘furever’ homes. Maybe you were in that mix, adding to your family during these last crazy months.
The pandemic has given many of us a lot of extra time at home. While it might feel almost claustrophobic by now, thank goodness for our furry friends.
For those of us living alone, that companionship has been nothing short of a lifesaver. For those of us “stuck” with family 24/7, our dogs have still been a lifesaver — perhaps thwarting any homicidal tendencies. (Let’s face it, no matter how much we love someone, there is such a thing as too much time together without a break.)
Our dogs have given us a reason to get out of the house. We’ve walked around the neighborhood and checked on our neighbors from a safe distance. We found new trails to explore.
Because of our dogs, we found ways to continue exercising our bodies and minds rather than remaining shut inside bingeing Netflix all day. Yet we also caught up on all those great shows and snuggled up with our best friends on our couches — her with a favorite bone, us with our popcorn.
It’s all about balance, after all.
Maybe you even decided it was time to finally train your dog in basic obedience. I am the first one to admit, despite knowing better, I totally enjoy a little “naughty” in a dog — but most visitors prefer not getting jumped on the moment they come through the door.
It’s never too early or too late to start teaching manners. Whether 10 weeks old or 10 years old, dogs can always learn. Have you been consistently working on these: SIT, STAY, DOWN, COME, OFF, HEEL, and NO. Be honest — I’m a professional sitter and walker, so I already know the answer for most of us.
And as more and more of us return to a regular routine that includes school or work, your dog’s transition to doggie daycare or their time with a midday walker will be so much smoother if they have these basic commands down. Plus your sitter will talk about you to the rest of the pet sitter community and sing your praises. Trust me. We talk.
If you haven’t adopted a dog yet but are thinking of it, let me be the first to tell you there is no better companion. As I already mentioned, you will be mentally and physically energized. But you will also receive unconditional love beyond anything you’ve previously experienced.
You will need a few supplies. Even with an older dog, you’ll need to puppy proof until she is used to your house and understands what is off limits. That means everything that shouldn’t be in a dog’s mouth and tummy needs to be put away. If you think something is out of reach, put it higher or behind closed doors. Gates and a crate are invaluable here, especially when a dog is unattended.
I have several tips and recommendations to offer both the brand new and the experienced pup parent, but more importantly I have stories to share about the importance of their companionship.
In Rescue a Dog and Rescue Yourself , you’ll learn more about the ways dogs enrich our lives, plus receive tidbits about some supplies you’ll need, tips about basic training, and why adoption is the best choice.
I can’t wait to start this journey with you, and to read about your adventures with your new companion!
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