Well; we are nearly done September.
The kids are back to school, begrudgingly, but they have established their routine. You are back at work, most of your vacation days used up.
So -- what's the dog doing? While you guys are gone for approximately 8 hours. You remember, that puppy you got in May, the pup that is now about 6 mos. old; has developed a beautiful summer routine, where someone was home to play with him all day, let him in and out as he needed to potty, played chase games and had long walks during those beautiful summer days; those long summer days; where the sun didn't set until 9:00-ish.
What's he doing now?
Ideally he's crated during the hours you are not home, with someone coming in to let him out for a 1/2 hour to hour-long walk at lunch time; to break up his day.
What's that you say? Can't. Can't what -- crate him?
I would; way less stress if you come home to a house that isn't riddled with urine, feces, chewed doors, destroyed gadgets and garbage strewn about. Can't -- give him a walk during the day? Eeeeks; perhaps it's time to contact the professionals.
It has been well established by many experts in the dog training and behaviour management field; that daily exercise is necessary to keep your canine companion happy.
It only makes sense; if you consider that cave dogs (whence your lovely puppy came) would have spent the entire day wandering around with their humans; playing with the kids; and simply flopping down to sleep when tired.
To keep your puppy happy, your older dog from being bored, and your family sane; if you don't have the time available to satisfy these exercise requirements; there are a number of different businesses available that can help you out.
Your options include
- doggy daycare
- dog/pet sitting
- dog walking services
Doggy daycare; can either be full service day/night boarding kennel who offers drop-off privileges for daily care; or can be simply a daycare area; where dogs are dropped off before you work and picked up on your way home, they will often serve food if your dog requires a midday meal, administer medications if your dog requires a specific time interval for a product, has quiet zones for dogs that just want to chill, lots of toys, and other doggy companions.
Best suited for: dogs that like other dogs, dogs that are up-to-date on their vaccinations, spayed/neutered dogs, dogs that are go-go-go and want constant amusement, owners that want to check up on their pets (there are often webcams available for log-in viewing)
For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here Dog Daycare
Dog/Pet Sitting; these companies (preferably bonded/insured) will come to your house in your absence and take your pet out for a walk; or in the backyard to play; or just spend some time (usually in 1/2 hour increments) hanging out with them, so Fluffy doesn't feel all alone for 8 hours; they also will feed/water as requested and many will administer medications if requested
Best suited for: dogs that can't attend daycare (are not up-to-date on medications, not spayed/neutered, not dog friendly), dogs that will let the sitter in; dogs that don't want a whole day of stimulation; but would like something to do during your absence. Note: these companies are also useful if you ever have an extended absence from the house (vacation/business trip) and Grandma will take the kids; but not the dog, the sitter (who is used to your dog) will come, bring your mail/newspapers in, water plants, turn lights on/off, care for and hang with the dog; etc.
For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here Dog/Pet Sitting
Dog Walkers; these companies will come by the house, grab dog/collar/leash and away they go; usually walks in 1/2 hour increments. You can generally request single dog walks/or walks with a dog pack. They may check your dog's water and give him a treat as well when they come back.
Best suited for: dogs that can't attend daycare (are not up-to-date on medications, not spayed/neutered, not dog friendly), dogs that will let the dog-walker in; dogs that don't want a whole day of stimulation; but would like something to do during your absence. Note: these companies are also useful if you need someone to fill in on walkie-duties during other times, or if you lack the physical ability to walk your dog longer distances; but can care for him otherwise
For the Niagara Region; find these businesses here Dog Walkers
Many thanks to Christine Smatana of K9 Friends Dog Walking Service for providing the information for this blog post. She was very passionate about her love for dogs and the job she does as a dog-walker/pet sitter. If you have further questions; do not hesitate to contact her at Tel: 905.353.8149 or Email: info@k9friendsdogwalkingservice.ca
