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Six Springtime Dog Tips

As Spring days grow longer, many of us are becoming more active with the outdoor activities we enjoy with our dogs. Here are a few tips to help your pooch ease into the fun of hitting the trails:

1. Start the day early by getting outside and enjoying the cool morning air in order to prevent your dog from overheating.

2. Protect your pet's nose, ears and other sensitive areas with sunscreen.

3. Monitor your dog's overall condition; be cautious to prevent exhaustion.

4. Let your dog build up his endurance, don't overdo it by attempting an extended hike early in the season.

5. Make sure that fresh water is readily available.

6. Inspect paws for wear, damage and injury.

Got Fleas or Ticks? Vacuum the Lawn!

No, this is not what Martha Stewart does on weekends. We're talking about removing ticks and fleas from your grass. Using the lawnmower's bag to catch the clippings, rather than mulching them, picks up all kinds of undesirable parasites that have jumped off squirrels, mice and deer into your grass.

You can compost the clippings at the edge of your property where the parasites will be trapped in the pile. Mulching mowers, eco-friendly as they are, do not suck up these blood suckers as well as the bag method does.

What It Means When Your Dog Sniffs Down There

Some dogs are so affectionate that they're not content with licking your face. They also want to share your more private smells which can prove embarrassing for you or an unsuspecting visitor.

Men and women alike are victims of this socially awkward behavior. Dogs do this out of a natural instinct to learn about this person (in the same way they sniff each others behinds) and out of habit. Keep in mind that dogs have a very strong sense of smell so they can learn a lot about a person through sniffing.

This strong sense of smell also leads to another reason canines might sniff that private area - because some dogs can actually sense prostrate cancer. They can detect a problem just sniffing people but, according to a recent study, can actually pick up the scent of chemicals associated with early prostrate cancer in urine.

If you need more information or need a pet sitter for your babies, visit our website at WagWatchers.com  - We promise they will have a GREAT TIME!!!

Find a real home for your dog to stay while you are away OR find out how to become a Wag Watchers pet host.

Browse to see what areas we cover in Florida and New Jersey to find a pet care provider in your area or call us at 1-866-749-1551

Tools to Help Unravel Your Dog's DNA

Many of us with mutts are curious about the breeds lurking in their ancestry. With the invention of Dog DNA tests, it is promised that we can now find out easily. But as many dog owners know, these tests are not always accurate.

I used Biovet to test my Pit Bull/hound mix. Here was her odd result: Akita/Boston Terrier/Schnauzer. Well, at least now I have proof she isn't a Pit if BSL ever comes to my town!

The only way to be certain about your dog's DNA, though, is to do a blood test. This test is over 90 percent accurate and can be done at your vet's. In the meantime, you can make an educated guess.

SPRING Into Parasite Prevention

Spring is here, and that means the warmer weather is bringing us and our pets out of hibernation. Unfortunately, it also means pesky pet parasites are becoming more prevalent.

Did You Know?

Fleas and Ticks are not only a nuisance but have the ability to cause serious illness in your pets and even family! One tiny flea can multiply to over 500 on your pet and in your home in just 3 weeks.

Heartworms are passed by mosquitoes through the bloodstream and into the pet's heart and lungs, causing serious illness and possibly death. Even 100% indoor cats can be become infested with heartworms.

Intestinal Parasites can infest your pet when your pet simply walks through soil that contains worm eggs or larvae or ingests something that carries the parasites. Pets can appear perfectly healthy and still be infected with parasites.

Here's the Good News!

All of these parasites are preventable!
Parasite prevention and treatment can help maintain the health and happiness of your pet. Call your local vet to schedule an appointment, and don't forget to bring a fecal sample for testing.

A Trick to Make House Training Easier

Bringing a new puppy home is a joyous occasion – until the eighth night of whining and the 10th attempt to steam the urine out of the rug. It’s OK to get frustrated with your new family member, just take it out on the treadmill instead of your pup. Besides learning how to house train your puppy, planning when you get your pup can be very helpful.

Before you bring home a puppy, plan to adopt at the beginning of a good weather season. This will vary depending on where you live. Keep in mind that hot weather isn’t necessarily good weather, so fall may be a better choice in someplace like Texas. What you want is to be able to run your puppy outside every time he shows signs of needing a bathroom break.

If you need help in training your new puppy, let Wag Watchers help...

Why Marrow Bones?

At Wag Watchers we like to treat your pooch to a marrow bone. Why you may ask?

Well first and foremost your dog loves them. They are a delicious and nutritious treat. Also, bones are great fun for dogs. They provide a task that is enjoyable to your beloved pet.

Bones are great for your dogs teeth. They help to clean teeth and eliminate bad breathe. Bones are also good for your pooches digestive tract.

Overall, we share a bone with your dog, not only because it is a great treat for them, but also because it is a healthy treat too.

Wrestling with a Matted Dog Coat

Mats and tangles are not becoming to say the least and can cause painful pinching and pulling against your pet's skin. (They also mean an achy wrist for the one doing all the brushing.) Unleash your inner groomer by making daily brushing part of your dog's routine fur treatment.

Brushing helps prevent tangles and clears away loose hair that would otherwise shed, only to end up around the house. Daily grooming helps your dog maintain lush shiny locks and a soft coat by distributing the natural oils that keep your pet's fur healthy.

How to Properly Set Up a Rabbit Cage

Preparing a home for a new bunny buddy? These cute, fun animals have specific housing needs. Follow these tips for the proper setup of a rabbit cage:

• Set up your rabbit's housing before you bring your pet home.

• Unless they're spayed or neutered, rabbits should be housed alone.

• Caging should include a hiding area, food bowl, water bottle, salt lick, and hay manger.

• The larger the cage, the better! Get a cage that has a lot of surface area, rather than multiple levels. Two levels are fine, but there is no need for a really tall cage.

• The cage should have a solid bottom. Avoid a wire bottom, which can irritate a rabbit's sensitive feet (the same goes for exercise wheels).

• Use rabbit-safe litter or shavings to line the litter box. Make the bedding about one inch deep and be sure to change it at least every other day.

• Put the cage in an area that gets a lot of activity – rabbits are very social and love people!

• Use only pet-safe cleaners in your pet's cage. Nature's Miracle is great for cleaning rabbit cages.

• If you give your rabbit access to the outdoors, beware of high temperatures and potential predators (stray or wild animals).

• Rabbits need daily exercise for their health. An exercise pen is ideal for keeping your rabbit safe, but still giving them room to run.

• If you allow your rabbit to roam your home, first rabbit-proof it by:

            Moving all plants out of reach.

             Moving all electrical cords out of reach. Rabbits try to chew them and can be       
             electrocuted.

             Restricting access to furniture & rugs (to avoid chewing and digging behaviors).

A Message From Your Cat: Why I'm Bored and What You Can do About it

Dear Keeper-of-the-Food:

It's me, your adorable feline, and today I want to talk to you about something important—boredom, specifically, my boredom. My life may seem wonderfully relaxing to you, but I can only cat nap for so long. And just when I'm ready to play, you're going to sleep!

You don't play with me as much as you used to, so I've had to come up with my own amusements. Pouncing on you while you're sleeping and other naughty things are all very amusing. There's nothing else to do really, so why am I being scolded?

I think it's time we discuss an upgrade in entertainment options, don't you? Here are my demands requests:

A variety of toys – I've been playing with the same sad toys for quite a while now. Here are some fun options that will keep me busy:

	Wand toys with danglers - I love to pounce on dangling toys, as you know.
	Treat-dispensing toys – Food! In a toy! This is genius!
	Catnip toys– Need I say more?
	Interactive toys – Puzzles or toys with moving parts I can chase. There's a food maze, for example, that sounds delightful.

Curious things – That cardboard box you had the other day was such fun! You know I'm a curious cat. Why not leave those boxes, paper bags and other interesting things around a little longer? They just might keep me away from the drapes.

A window seat – There's nothing I enjoy more than watching my prey outdoors, so I'd appreciate a window ledge or perch. I can dream of my attack as I watch birds and small animals. Better yet, hang a bird feeder outside and I'll be in heaven.

Fun furniture and high perches – I need to watch over my domain and explore. If you give me a high post or some interesting cat furniture (or a jungle gym!), I'll consider staying off the refrigerator.

Flea & Tick Myths

You may have heard a lot of advice about fleas and ticks. But there are surprisingly many untruths or myths about them that are still circulating today.

MYTH: Fleas and ticks are a warm-weather problem
In certain areas, they're a year-round problem. Even in states with cold winters, fleas can survive in microclimates. These areas (under decks, in sheds or elsewhere) are warm enough to keep a population of fleas or ticks alive during the winter.

MYTH: Indoor pets don't need protection Think your indoor puppy or cat is safe from fleas and ticks? Think again. These pests can hitch a ride indoors on other visitors, both human and animal. MYTH: Fleas live best in carpeted spaces Believe it or not, wood and tile floors can also harbor fleas. In fact, it may be harder to treat these areas as flea larvae and eggs can survive in small crevices, along baseboards and under furniture. MYTH: It's best to remove ticks with burning matches, nail polish or alcohol These and other common folk remedies claim to solve the tick problem. But they may worsen it by leaving the tick's head embedded in the skin or releasing disease-laden fluids into your pet's blood. Focus instead on removing the tick as quickly as possible. MYTH: A few fleas are not a "serious" problem Once you spot a few adult fleas, you can expect there to be hundreds of eggs, larvae and pupae on your pet and in his favorite areas. Act quickly to treat your pet, home and yard with flea and tick control products. Better yet, use a flea preventive to protect Fido year-round. MYTH: A flea infestation can be eradicated in a few days It's more likely to take three to eight weeks. That's because new adult fleas are emerging every day as part of their lifecycle. Keep cleaning and treating each area consistently to combat the problem and see results.

For Anyone with Pets!!!

Who has pets that have had an accident in the house? This is a Eco~Friendly & $$$ Saving Tip to help clean urine out of your carpet or upholstery. 

Just take a container of regular old table salt and pour a generous amount on the wet area of your carpet. Let is set for several hours and then vacuum it up. The salt absorbs the urine. Anytime I have used this there is no stain or smell that remains. 

A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old)

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.  

Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.

He said, ''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'' The Six-year-old continued,

''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

How to Keep Your Cat from Having Cling-Ons

Although it’s embarrassing to admit, our cats sometimes have problems keeping their bottoms clean. This is particularly true of obese or long-haired cats. Here’s how to minimize the smelly impact:

Keep the litter box clean. Scoop waste at least twice a day. If you have a covered litter box, remove the cover.

If your cat has messy britches because of diarrhea, talk with your vet. If there’s no disease-based reason for diarrhea, consider switching food brands.

And, of course, when you do clean your kitty, it’s easiest to take care of the mess before it hardens up. If you tug on his fur while trying to remove the cling-ons, your cat won’t appreciate your assistance.

A Headache of a Question: Can Cats Take Aspirin?

When your cat has a headache, can he reach for the aspirin? According to Vet Info, it is possible to give cats aspirin in very low doses. It is recommended that 10mg/lb of body weight or one of the 81mg adult chewable aspirin tablets be given, whichever is less medication.

Aspirin stays in a cat’s system for 72 hours though, so dose infrequently. Too much aspirin can be toxic, as can any amount of Acetaminophen, so skip the Tylenol and Excedrin. And, as with every medication, make sure you talk to your vet first.

A Canine Hero named Gabe

Gabe has done 210 combat missions in Iraq. He is a decorated military hero. He is 10 years old, and he is a dog.

Gabe was a rescue dog, found in a shelter just one day before he was set to be put down. This lab mix was enlisted in the US Army, and trained to siff out weapons. He has spent most of his career in Iraq sniffing IEDs and saving the lives of soldiers.

Gabe has recently become a celebrity of sorts. He caught the attention of Betty White and Whoopi Goldberg, and has been on national television. Gabe is now retired. He spends his days as a house pet and is occasionally used to teach soldiers how to work with sniffing dogs.

We Tip Our Hats to the Working Dogs

Working dogs have played an intregul role in history. Here are some fun facts…

During the Vietnam war 4500 working dogs were sent to aid the troops.

The first guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired were trained in Germany to provide assistance for those blinded in the war. German Shepherds were used for their protective and strong sense of loyalty to their owner.

In Roman times, Mastiffs donned light armor and were sent after mounted knights.

Dogs can be trained to detect epileptic seizures.

A dog by the name ok Laikawas launched into space aboard the Russian spacecraft Sputnik  2 in the year 1957.

Dogs are truly amazing.

Doggie Day Trips To The Beach

Till the end of May, 2013, Wag Watchers - North Port, FL location is offering special rates for dogige day trips to Venice dog park and beach. For more information, visit our website or call us toll free at: 866.749.1551

Turtle Care 101

Turtles are beautiful animals that can live up to 10 years or more with proper care. The tips that follow will give you a foundation for basic turtle care. Be sure to also research specific care information for your turtle's species.

Turtle or Tortoise?
Unlike land-dwelling tortoises, turtles live in or near water, have webbed feet and eat meat or a combination of meat and vegetation. Some of the most popular species include Red Ear Sliders, Painted Turtles, Northern Map Turtles and Wood Turtles.

Turtle housing
Turtles should be kept in tanks that provide water for swimming and a dry area for basking. Make sure the water area is large enough for swimming and diving. Tanks should also be at least 20 gallons or larger, especially as the turtles gain in size. Red Ear Sliders, for example, can grow up to 11 inches and will need more space as they grow. 

Heat and lighting
Since turtles can't generate their own body heat, heat and lighting are needed. They will help your turtle regulate his body temperature and maintain a healthy shell. You should provide both fluorescent light for his health and incandescent light for heat. 

Clean
It's essential to keep the water clean in your turtle's tank. For healthy water conditions, clean and/or partially change the water at least once a week. Also consider a canister filter or a power filter, depending on your tank setup. 

Diet
Because turtles are omnivores, most will eat meal-worms and insects such as live crickets. Leafy vegetables and turtle food are also part of a nutritious diet. Start by feeding young turtles daily, then feed switch to 4 or 5 times per week for adult turtles. Provide variety with insects, dark leafy greens and canned or pelleted turtle food. 

Salmonella
Like other animals, turtles can carry salmonella in their intestinal tracts and feces. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your turtle or cleaning the tank.

Top Feeding Mistakes by Cat Owners

Milk The sight of a cat lapping up milk is an iconic image, but many cats actually become lactose intolerant once they reach adulthood. For them, drinking milk on a regular basis can lead to an upset stomach and diarrhea. It's fine as an occasional treat, but milk shouldn't be given regularly and never as a replacement for water as this could lead to dehydration.

Tuna diet Your cat may find tuna's strong smell and taste addicting, but a tuna diet is one lacking in nutrition. It doesn't have enough vitamin E and can lead to increased levels of mercury. Keep it on the list of rare treats and provide a proper diet with quality cat food instead.   Neglecting life-stage feeding It's important to feed your cat the proper food for her stage of life. Kitten food, for example, has more protein and fat, while senior cat food will often have less calories. Certain cat foods also address different health issues. To maintain your cat's health, feed her a premium food that is appropriate for her needs at that stage of life.   Dog food  Believe it or not, some cats are eating dog food -- usually cats in multi-pet homes with various food bowls. If Kitty is dipping into Fido's bowl at your home, discourage her. Dog food doesn't provide the levels of protein or taurine cats need for good health.   Table scraps  Feeding table scraps can lead to weight issues and health problems for your cat. Keep in mind also that with table scraps, you're teaching your cat to be more finicky! It's better to avoid feeding kitty any leftovers.

If you need more information or need a pet sitter for your babies, visit our website at WagWatchers.com  - We promise they will have a GREAT TIME!!!

Find a real home for your dog to stay while you are away OR find out how to become a Wag Watchers pet host.

Browse to see what areas we cover in Florida and New Jersey to find a pet care provider in your area or call us at 1-866-749-1551

Keeping an Odor-Free Dog & Home

As a dog owner, you must inevitably deal with doggie odor. But it doesn't have to be difficult to manage. Use these tips for a better smelling dog and home...

Find the cause
It's best to find out what's causing your dog's odor first. Does Fido love to roll in smelly things or does he have a skin condition? Check with your vet if you suspect the latter. Also, some breeds have an oily hair coat that can build up odor, while others are predisposed to skin problems. Don't forget, ear infections and gum disease can cause odor as well. Determine the cause and ensure there are no health problems before choosing the best solution.

Bath time 
Barring any health issues, the smelly dog problem could be cleared up with regular bathing and the right shampoo. Dog shampoos have gone beyond the flea and tick variety. There are now medicated shampoos, anti-bacterial shampoos, formulas with oatmeal or chamomile, water less shampoos and others. Choose one that suits your dog's needs and bathe and groom him regularly.

Grooming all over
Besides bathing, your dog has other grooming needs that can affect his smell. Be sure to clean his ears, check his skin, clean his teeth and brush his fur. Some breeds have oilier fur, but if your dog suddenly develops an oily coat and smelly, flaky skin, he may have seborrhea, a skin condition that should be treated by a vet. Anal glands can also cause odors due to oily secretions and are a common problem. Check with your veterinarian to see if the glands should be expressed. Some groomers may do this as well.

Odor from within 
Does your dog have a flatulence problem? If so, take a closer look at his diet. This type of issue can point to an intestinal problem or may be a matter of improper nutrition. If your dog is usually gassy, switch to a high-quality dog food that provides a proper diet. 

Home and bedding
Once Fido is clean, eliminate the doggy smell at home by treating his bedding and other areas often. Your dog's bed, for example, should get washed or have a washable cover. Extend the cleaning indoors with vacuuming and carpet cleaning. Pet cleaners are a must as well. 

Potty Taining Puppy

You might be a little frustrated right now because house training is not progressing as fast as you had hoped. Your puppy just doesn't seem to get it… Or, maybe you are planning ahead and want to start potty training on the right paw!

Every puppy presents different challenges, but there are common instincts that will facilitate the house training process. This article will detail a training program with techniques that will house train your puppy as soon as possible and foster a trusting and loving relationship between you and your pup.

It’s normal for a young puppy to be a little ‘input-output’ machine. Since they are growing and developing rapidly at this stage, they eat more food, burn up more energy and seem to need to eliminate constantly! Puppies have not yet developed bowel and bladder control, so they can’t ‘hold it’ as long as adult dogs.

Puppies need time to developed a “den” instinct to cause them to want to ‘hold it’ and not soil
the den, i.e., your entire house. In their litter, puppies just go whenever and wherever they happen to be! Successful house training depends upon your diligent supervision so you can be there to show your pup where to eliminate.

Just so you know, a puppy is never completely house trained until they are 6 months old. For some breeds, even later. This means that though you may be making tremendous progress house training  there will be “mistakes”. Sometimes for reasons you can’t figure out! Don’t fret about it. Stay focused on the progress you are making. Your confidence in the techniques you are using to house train your puppy will ensure your success.

Your Five Rules for House Training

• Give your puppy frequent access to his toilet area – prevent soiling in the house.

• Reward the pup for peeing or pooping in the right place – use a special treat.

• Never punish the pup for house training “mistakes” – scolding has dire consequences.

• Put your puppy on a regular and timely feeding schedule – in/out clockwork.

• Know when your puppy last eliminated – keep a diary.

Posted in Behavior & Training, dog training, dogs around the house

If you need more information or need a pet sitter for your babies, visit our website at WagWatchers.com  - We promise they will have a GREAT TIME!!!

Find a real home for your dog to stay while you are away OR find out how to become a Wag Watchers pet host.

Browse to see what areas we cover in Florida and New Jersey to find a pet care provider in your area or call us at 1-866-749-1551

Facts About Walking your Dog

Everyone knows its great for you and your dog to walk regularly. Here are some facts about walking your pooch.

A study by Michigan State University showed that people who walk their dogs regularly are 34% more likely to meet expected levels of exercise, with a recommended level of 150 minutes of activity such as dog walking per week.

A study done in shelters by Psychology Today, sited that dogs who were walked regularly, were significantly happier and noticeably healthier, than those who were not walked regularly.

Dogs are easier to train, and respect their owners authority more if walked regularly.

For more information about dog walking visit our website!

“Eabor Goes To The Dogs”

Wag Watchers will be at the "Eabor Goes To The Dogs" on Saturday, March 30th, 2013 from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Come on out and see the unveiling of our new Mascot and enter our Free Raffle drawing. We will also be giving away samples of Nimah's Nibble homemade grain and wheat free dog cookies. We look forward to seeing everyone there!!!

Fun Day 4 Paws

Hi Everyone,

Don't forget to come out and see us this Saturday at the “Fun Day 4 Paws” - Benefit and Adopt-A-Thon at the American Legion in North Port, FL between 10am and 4pm. We will have a lot of coupons and cool stuff to give away - including 2 Raffles that you can enter for Free!!!

1. A Wag Watchers tote bag filled with toys, treats, shampoos and other cool stuff for you dog.

2. A Easter basket filled with homemade dog treats from Nimah's Nibbles of North Port, FL that your dog will love.

We will also be unveiling - for the 1st time - Wag Watchers pup in full bling.

Pets Make Babies Healthier

According to a story in today’s U.S. News and Report, a new study from Kuopio University Hospital, in Finland, found that babies in homes with dogs and cats are less likely to get sick.  The study showed that babies were less susceptible to colds, ear infections, and respiratory illnesses. The study of 400 children showed that a child with a dog is 29% less likely to need antibiotics.

“Children who had dog contacts at home were healthier and had less frequent ear infections and needed fewer courses of antibiotics than children who had no dog contacts,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Eija Bergroth, a pediatrician who worked at Kuopio University Hospital, in Finland, at the time of the study.

Bergroth also noted that “cat contacts did not seem to have as strong of an impact on infection frequency in multivariate analysis as the dog contacts.”

Results of the study, released online July 9, will be published in the August print issue of Pediatrics.

Posted in Cats & Children, dogs around the house, Health & Wellness

Celebration of Pets

Hi folks, only 2 more days, please post and share to as many dog lovers you know! 

We will be at booth #149 on Saturday, March 2 between 10am and 6pm. Come on out and meet some of Wag Watchers pet sitters. We will have a lots of cool stuff to give away!!! 

Dolphins Help Save Dog from Drowning

On Marco Island, Florida a group of dolphins came to the aid of a lost Doberman that had fallen into a canal and couldn't get out. The dolphins made so much noise, it attracted the attention of people living nearby, who then rescued the dog. The Doberman was believed to have spent 15 hours in the canal water before he was pulled out by fire personnel and reunited with his owner.

One of the people whose attention was captured by the noisy, demonstrative dolphins said, "They were really putting up a ruckus, almost beaching themselves on the sandbar over there. If it wasn't for the dolphin, I would have never seen the dog.” (Source: ABC7news) He said also if the dolphins hadn't persisted enough to get their attention, they dog would have died in the canal. The dog had fallen over the edge of a concrete wall down into the water far enough that it had no chance of getting back up by itself. The dog was exhausted from being in the cold water for hours, and most likely suffering from hypothermia.

Dolphins have been known to sometimes help stranded or injured people as well. In 2007, a pod of dolphins formed a ring around a surfer who was injured and bleeding after being bitten by a Great White shark. The surfer survived because they prevented further bites. No one knows exactly why dolphins have intervened in such emergency situations, and helped save the lives of other species. Suffice to say they are capable of empathy and heroic actions.

Weekend Doggie Fun

If you of live on the Suncoast area there are tons of awesome places to take you dogs for some outdoor fun.  Get our and play. Here are some favorite dog parks…

17th Street Paw Park
4570 17th St., Sarasota

17th Street Paw Park is located within the greater 17th Street Park, situated between Honore Avenue and Beneva Road.

Paw Park amenities:
Drinking fountain for dogs, separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, waste disposal bags and trash cans, benches, covered picnic tables and restrooms

Arlington Paw Park
2650 Waldemere St., Sarasota
Arlington Paw Park is situated within Arlington Park, a 17-acre park, located in Sarasota between Tuttle Avenue and Tamiami Trail. This park is owned by the city of Sarasota and operated by Sarasota County.

Paw Park amenities:
Drinking fountain for dogs, separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, waste disposal bags and trash cans, benches, picnic tables and restrooms.

This Park also features:

Recreation and Aquatic Center, paved trail, passive recreation area, picnicking area, and playground.

Brohard Beach Paw Park
1600 Harbor Drive South, Venice
Brohard Beach Paw Park, a 1-acre park, is situated within the vicinity of several beach parks. 

This park is owned by the City of Venice and operated by Sarasota County.

Paw Park amenities:

Drinking water for dogs, penalty box for dogs that get too frisky, separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, waste disposal bags and trash cans, benches, covered picnic tables, boardwalk to the dog-friendly public beach and restrooms. Dogs are permitted in a restricted area along the beach.

Lakeview Paw Park
7150 Lago Street, Sarasota
Lakeview Park is a 26-acre neighborhood park located in Sarasota, east of Interstate 75, just south of Bee Ridge Road.

Paw Park amenities:

Drinking fountain for dogs, separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, waste disposal bags and trash cans, benches, picnic tables and restrooms.

This park also features:

Disc-golf course, playground and picnic shelter

Woodmere Paw Park
3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice
Woodmere Paw Park is situated within Woodmere Park, a 38 acre park located in Venice near the Jacaranda Library.

Paw Park amenities:

Drinking fountain for dogs, separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, waste disposal bags and trash cans, benches, picnic tables and restrooms.

This park also features:

Recreation Center, fitness trail, passive recreation area, picnicking area and playground.

If you need more information or need a pet sitter to take you babies to one of these facilities, visit our website at WagWatchers.com  - We promise they will have a GREAT TIME!!!

Find a real home for your dog to stay while you are away OR find out how to become a Wag Watchers pet host.

Browse to see what areas we cover in Florida and New Jersey to find a pet care provider in your area or call us at 1-866-749-1551

Funny Captions

Forget the kennel! Board your dog in our home with WagWatchers.com

Celebration of Pets 3

Morning Everyone,

Just a reminder - only 2 more weeks till the Celebration of Pets in Sarasota, FL.

We will be at booth #149 on Saturday, March 2 between 10am and 6pm. Come on out and meet all of us. We will have a lot of coupons and cool stuff to give away!!!

Pets Make Babies Healthier

According to a story in today’s U.S. News and Report, a new study from Kuopio University Hospital, in Finland, found that babies in homes with dogs and cats are less likely to get sick.  The study showed that babies were less susceptible to colds, ear infections, and respiratory illnesses. The study of 400 children showed that a child with a dog is 29% less likely to need antibiotics

“Children who had dog contacts at home were healthier and had less frequent ear infections and needed fewer courses of antibiotics than children who had no dog contacts,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Eija Bergroth, a pediatrician who worked at Kuopio University Hospital, in Finland, at the time of the study.

Bergroth also noted that “cat contacts did not seem to have as strong of an impact on infection frequency in multivariate analysis as the dog contacts.”

Interesting facts about Animals

Wag Watchers post for 10 interesting facts about Animals -  Last 6 of 10

6: Quagga, the extincted animal

Quagga was an African animal and was related to current-time Zebra. It had stripes on its body but unlike Zebra the stripes were not spread over the whole body. Most of their stripes were on head and neck while there were no stripes on legs at all.

7: Pistol Shrimp, the smart hunter

Will you believe this amazing pistol shrimp makes louder noise than a supersonic jet engine. Pistol shrimp make this noise by snapping his claws which can easily stun its prey.

8: Stripes of Zebra

The color of Zebra is not black with white stripes but white with black stripes. Another amazing aspect of their stripes is that none of the Zebra in the world has stripes similar to other one.

9: Blue whale, the largest animal ever

Blue Whale is the largest and the heaviest known creature that have ever existed on the earth. A blue whale’s tongue weight as much as an elephant.

10: Darwin’s Bark Spider produces the toughest silk

Darwin’s Bark Spider is an amazing species of spider that produces the toughest silk. Its density can be four times greater than steel. Web created by them is the largest in the world ranging from 900–28,000 cm.

Forget the kennel! Board your dog in our home with WagWatchers.com