But have you considered the alternatives that promise not just safety but personalised, one-on-one care for your kitty while you’re away? Welcome to the world of Mad Paws, where every whisker, tail flick, and purr matters immensely to us!

So if you’re searching online for a reliable cattery to house your kitten while you’re away, let’s look at an option that removes the stress of leaving home for both you and your cat.

The traditional cattery vs. personalised Mad Paws care: A brief comparison

Most cat parents are acquainted with traditional catteries — essentially boarding facilities for cats. They serve as safe keeping for your pets whilst you’re away, providing the basics like shelter, food, and some play. But, is basic all your feline heart desires?

Cats are creatures of habit after all, and we know they don’t like being forced into a new environment. Staying at a cattery is not always the best option for a number of reasons, which we will get into in a sec.

First, let’s chat about the premium, purr-sonalised care Mad Paws offers, a heartwarming alternative to your “cattery near me” searches!

1. Paws-on-1 care: Unleash a world of tailored attention

Mad Paws’ Pet Sitting service ensures your kitty enjoys the royal treatment they deserve, enveloped in a familiar environment — their own home! Unlike a conventional cattery, our cat sitters focus on providing one-on-one, tailored care that keeps stress at bay and those playful pounces alive.

1. Continuous cuddles and updates: Stay connected with every purr

We all miss our pets when we’re away, don’t we? Worry not, for with Mad Paws, you receive constant, cheerful updates and photos of your feline indulging in playful antics or serene snoozes, assuring you of their comfort and happiness.

1. Choose your meow-velous service: Catering to every whisker’s wish

a. Pet Hosting 

Your cat enjoys a vacation too, embraced by the warmth and dedicated care in the Sitter’s home. They’ll receive meticulous care and pampering all within a homely environment.

b. Pet Sitting

Your kitty remains the king or queen of their own castle, with the Sitter staying at your home (which doubles as house sitting too) – maintaining the same familiar environment and adherence to your cat’s routine.

c. House Visits

Ideal for the independent whisker-bearer, our sitters drop by your place once or twice a day to ensure they’re fed, watered, and indulged in their favourite play, all whilst residing in their beloved territory.

The Mad Paws difference: Why settle for less when your cat deserves the best?

Embark on your away journeys with tranquillity, knowing your feline is not just housed but cherished, not merely fed but joyfully engaged, and always under the gentle, watchful eye of a devoted pet sitter.

Unlike a cattery, Mad Paws’ services are not about simple sustenance; they’re about weaving a tapestry of delightful days for your kitty, ensuring their life continues in its splendid, playful rhythm even in your absence. For more delightful tails of our dedicated care, whisker through our sitter stories or delve into the feline world with our insightful cat’s tail position guide.

Still deciding between a cattery, kennel, or pet sitter? Uncover the best for your furry beloved. Discover the difference with Mad Paws, where every purr, cuddle, and playful bound is celebrated in its glorious, unique melody.

Are cats better left at home or in a cattery? 

Cats, with their love for routine and familiar surroundings, often thrive better when cared for at home rather than in a cattery. In fact, it is well documented in studies that cats are very stressed in boarding facilities and having their owner nearby or something that carries their owner’s scent can help. But this stress can be completely avoided if the cat never has to leave their home in the first place.

 Let’s prowl through some benefits of home-care over boarding your cat when you are away:

• Cats relish the familiarity of their own territory, finding comfort in known scents and spots.
• Home care ensures their feeding, play, and sleep routine remains undisrupted.
• Familiar environment minimises stress, which is vital for their wellbeing.
• Unlike in a cattery, a pet sitter can provide undivided attention and customised care.
• Less exposure to other animals reduces risks of contracting illnesses.

Mad Paws’ Pet Sitting service offers a fabulous solution, granting your cat all the benefits of being cared for in their beloved home.

How much does it cost to keep a cat in a cattery?

In Australia, cattery prices can vary widely based on location, facilities, and the level of service provided. Standard catteries can cost, on average, around $40 per day and luxury cattery services can extend to upwards of $90 per day for additional amenities and personalised care.

Comparatively, Mad Paws offers a variety of sitters in your area and you can tailor your search to suit varied budgets and needs – providing an alternative that prioritises both premium care and affordability.

How do I prepare my cat when I’m going away?

Preparation is crucial to ensure your cat remains happy and healthy when you’re away. Here’s a little guideline:

• Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, especially if considering a cattery.
• Ensure your home is safe and secure if opting for a pet sitter.
• Ensure ample supply of their food, medicines, litter, and favourite toys.
• Leave detailed care instructions for the pet sitter.
• Leave items carrying your scent to comfort your kitty.

While preparing, you might ponder, “Where can I find a cheap cattery near me?”, “Is there a free cattery near me?”, or “Which is the best cattery near me?”. It’s essential to consider not just the cost but the quality of care provided. With Mad Paws, your cat enjoys luxurious, personalised attention without the premium price tag, offering a splendid solution for those who seek both affordability and excellence in pet care.

Remember, whether you opt for a cattery or pet sitter, the priority should always be the happiness and wellbeing of your feline friend!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the best place to leave your cat?

The best place to leave your cat ultimately hinges on their personality, health, and accustomed comfort. For many cats, staying in their own home, surrounded by familiar scents and sights, ensures minimal disruption and stress. 

Utilising a personalised pet care service like Mad Paws Pet Sitting, where a dedicated sitter provides one-on-one care in your own home, can often be the premium choice. It ensures familiarity for the cat and provides pet parents with the reassurance of regular updates.

Do cats like leaving the house?

Cats are typically territorial creatures, often preferring the comfort and familiarity of their own domain. While some cats may exhibit adventurous spirits or show curiosity towards the outside world, many prefer the safety and predictability of their own environment. It’s vital to assess your own cat’s personality and past behaviour to determine their comfort level with leaving the home, always ensuring any new experiences are introduced gradually and with utmost care.

Do cats hate leaving home?

While ‘hate’ might be a strong term, it’s accurate to say that many cats have a strong preference for staying within their own territory. Leaving home, especially for stays in unfamiliar environments like a cattery, can be stressful for cats, often resulting in altered eating or elimination habits and changes in behaviour. It’s crucial that any necessary departures from home, such as stays at a cattery or with a pet sitter, are managed with sensitivity, considering the cat’s need for familiar items and adherence to their usual routines.

Searching for a “Cattery Near Me?” Opt for premium feline care with Mad Paws

Opting between a traditional cattery and a delightfully nurturing pet sitter like those at Mad Paws isn’t just a decision – it’s a commitment to ensuring our cats receive not just care, but a cascade of affection and a dollop of daily joy even in our absence.

Whether your kitty revels in the cosiness of their own kingdom or ventures into the pampered realms of a Mad Paws sitter’s abode, remember: their whiskers should quiver with excitement, and their tails ought to sway with contentment. After all, in the lush landscapes of their eyes, you’re not just an owner. You’re their human, and ensuring their happiness is a testament to the unspoken, yet profoundly deep bond you share.

The post Cattery or Cat Sitter? Which is best? appeared first on Mad Paws.

What is vital, however, is your approach to their stress. As a pet parent, it’s our duty of care to help create the most relaxed and safe living environment for them.

So if you’re asking yourself, ‘Is my cat stressed out?‘, keep reading to learn more about the causes of stress in cats, the signs to look out for, and several ways you can help calm an anxious or stressed cat.

Some common triggers for cat anxiety include:

1. Environmental changes:

Moving house can disrupt a cat’s sense of security and familiarity, just as new additions to the home or even the removal of members. This can include introducing new pets, family members (eg. a new baby), or the absence of a familiar companion (human or animal).

2. Loud noises:

Thunderstorms or fireworks are known stressors for animals. Sudden loud noises can startle and stress cats, as can constant loud sounds from construction or renovations.

3. Change in routine:

Cats (and dogs) often thrive on routine. Altering their feeding or playtime schedules can make them feel somewhat disoriented and therefore stressed. They can also become anxious when their owners are away for extended periods. This is a big reason why house visits can be a great help if you’re busy. 

4. Health issues:

Being sick or recovering from an injury can cause stress in cats. Alternatively, if they’re in pain or discomfort due to an underlying health issue, your cat may exhibit stress behaviours. Where you believe this may be the case, a trip to the Vet is strongly recommended.

5. Social stress:

No one likes confrontation, including cats! Sharing space or feeling threatened by other cats or animals in the home can stress them out and evoke territorial behaviour. The good news is that certain techniques can help when introducing your cat to another pet.

6. Visits to the Vet:

A trip to the Vet is one of the most common anxiety-inducing activities a cat will experience. The unfamiliar environment, handling, and procedures during vet visits will almost certainly see them showing signs of stress.

7. Litter box issues:

Dirty or unmaintained litter boxes, any changes in litter type, or even just the particular location of their litter tray can stress cats, leading to inappropriate elimination.

8. Pheromonal changes:

Changes in the household scents due to new furniture, cleaning products, or even changes in the household members’ scents is also a cause for anxiety in cats.

9. Traumatic experiences:

Previous traumatic experiences, such as abuse or accidents, can cause long-term anxiety in cats.

10. Socialisation and unfamiliar people:

Cats may feel anxious or stressed when encountering unfamiliar visitors or guests. This is particularly common around the festive season or at family get-togethers at home.

Recognising the signs of anxiety in your feline friend is the initial step in providing them with the comfort and care they need.

Signs of an anxious or stressed cat

Understanding your cat’s body language and activity will help to interpret how they’re feeling and therefore if you need to intervene to help calm and reassure them. Below are some common traits they may exhibit when stressed or anxious.

• Hiding or withdrawal: Anxious cats often seek seclusion. They might hide under furniture or in secluded spots around the house, preferring solitude when feeling stressed. This may be why sometimes you may notice (or hear from others) that cats like to hide in boxes!
• Excessive grooming: Over-grooming, leading to bald patches or skin irritations, can be a sign of anxiety in cats. They might groom obsessively as a coping mechanism.
• Aggression or avoidance: Some cats exhibit aggressive behaviour when anxious, while others might avoid interactions or lash out when approached, indicating their discomfort.
• Excessive meowing: A cat’s meow is their way of communicating, so an increase could be their way of telling you they’re distressed.
• Persistent pacing: An anxious cat will be less likely to remain still, so pacing incessantly is something to watch out for. A puffed up tail can also be a physical sign of fear, nervousness, or stress.
• Urinary Issues: Stress can manifest in urinary problems like urinating outside the litter box or frequent urination.
• Changes in appetite: An anxious cat might either overeat or lose interest in food altogether, leading to weight fluctuations.

How to calm an anxious or stressed cat

Create a safe space: Designate a quiet, cosy area for your cat with their bed, toys, and hiding spots. This safe haven provides a retreat during times of stress.

Routine and consistency: Maintaining consistent feeding times, play sessions, and grooming routines will help provide a sense of security and stability for your kitty.

Environmental enrichment: Engage your cat with interactive toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures to keep them mentally stimulated and alleviate stress.

Veterinary approved supplements: Consider using supplements specifically designed to help cats manage stress, such as PRO PLAN Veterinary Calming Care. This supplement contains a probiotic strain known to support calm behaviour in cats. Administered as per the provided guidelines, they can aid in promoting a sense of relaxation in your pet.

Containing bifidobacterium longum (BL999), a probiotic strain shown to help blunt cortisol response to anxious events, and support a healthy immune system. Results can be seen within a 6 week period, with improvement in anxious behaviours (such as pacing)*. What’s best about PRO PLAN Veterinary Calming Care Probiotic for cats is that it’s so easy to administer. Simply sprinkle a pre-portioned sachet onto their meal. It’s as simple as that!

Aromatherapy and comforting techniques: Some cats respond well to calming scents like lavender or chamomile. Additionally, gentle massages or using pheromone diffusers designed for cats can have a calming effect.

Consult a Veterinarian: If your cat’s anxiety persists or worsens, seeking advice from a veterinarian is crucial. They can provide tailored guidance, rule out underlying health issues, and recommend additional treatments or behavioural therapies.

Summary

Recognising and addressing anxiety in cats is essential for their overall well-being. 

Understanding the signs of stress, providing a calming environment, incorporating behavioural strategies, and considering supplements like PRO PLAN Veterinary Calming Care can help alleviate your cat’s anxiety. Remember, every cat is unique, so finding the right combination of techniques may take time. 

With patience and care, you can help your feline friend live a happier, more relaxed life.

Shop PRO PLAN Veterinary Calming Care at Pet Chemist and have it delivered direct to your door >

* Davis H., Franco P., Gagné J., et al. Effect of Bifidobacterium longum 999 supplementation on stress associated findings in cats with feline herpesvirus 1 infection. ACVIM Forum 2021 Proceedings

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If you’ve noticed your dog feeling stressed or anxious, there are various ways to provide comfort and help ease their worries. From creating a soothing environment to considering calming care supplements, in this article we detail how to calm an anxious dog.

Recognising signs of anxiety in your dog

Pets, much like humans, can experience anxiety due to various reasons such as separation, loud noises, changes in routine, or even past traumatic experiences. 

Recognising the signs of anxiety is the initial step in addressing the issue. Common signs include excessive barking, trembling, pacing, hiding, loss of appetite, or destructive behaviour.

Some common causes of anxiety in dogs include:

• Moving house: a complete change of environment translates into unfamiliar scents and unfamiliar surroundings (and ‘safe zones’). The stress of moving might cause dogs to become clingy or withdrawn.
• A visit to the vet: it goes without saying that the interaction a Vet may have with a pet can cause distress. The smells, sounds, and the association of the clinic with past uncomfortable experiences (like vaccinations or examinations) can be a sensory overload and potentially cause stress.
• A new pet entering the home: whether it’s a new addition to the family or a visiting fur friend, it’s important to watch closely for any signs of apprehension from either animal. The uncertainty of the interaction can cause them to become anxious and therefore act out.
• Sharp, loud noises: While they’re a form of celebration for us, fireworks on new years eve, Christmas crackers and even party poppers can be terrifying for pets. Even the loud noise of the vacuum, thunderstorms or nearby construction can cause them to bark excessively or even try to escape.

Five ways to help calm an anxious dog

Create a calm environment

Dogs are creatures of habit, so familiar surroundings and routine will always be a good place to start when trying to calm an anxious dog. Predictability helps to offer your dog a sense of security, so aim to stick to a regular feeding schedule, playtime, and walks. 

Designate a cosy spot for your pet where they feel safe and secure. This could be a corner with their bed, blankets, or toys. Make it a quiet and comfortable space they can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed. Consider also utilising white noise machines or calming music, or close windows and curtains to minimise external sounds.

Exercise and mental stimulation

Physical activity and mental engagement are vital for reducing anxiety in pets. Regular walks, interactive toys, or puzzle feeders not only tire them out physically but also provide mental stimulation, diverting their attention away from potential stressors.

Supplements that help calm an anxious dog

Supplements formulated specifically for anxiety in pets, like Purina Pro Plan Calming Care probiotic, can help assist in maintaining calm behaviour.

Containing bifidobacterium longum (BL999), a probiotic strain shown to help blunt cortisol response to anxious events, and support a healthy immune system. Results can be seen within a 6 week period, with improvement in anxious behaviours (such as pacing). In a Purina study, 90% of dogs showed an improvement in displaying anxious behaviours such as excessive vocalisation, jumping, pacing and spinning*.

What’s best about Pro Plan Veterinary Calming Care Probiotic for dogs is that it’s so easy to administer. Simply sprinkle a pre-portioned sachet onto their meal. It’s as simple as that!

There are also natural remedies such as chamomile, valerian root and lavender that can have calming effects on pets. Where you’re looking for a natural remedy, we advise consulting your veterinarian before using any herbal supplements to ensure they’re safe for your pet and won’t interact negatively with any existing medications.

Behavioural training and comforting techniques

Consider some proven training techniques such as positive reinforcement – rewarding calm behaviour with treats or praise – and desensitisation, where you gradually expose your pet to triggers that cause anxiety in a controlled environment. For instance, if they fear car rides, start with short, pleasant drives and gradually increase the duration.

Other ways to help comfort your pet include massages (yes, they help melt away stress in pets too!), gentle grooming, specifically designed calming dog beds, and weighted blankets for dogs.

Consultation with a professional

Research any dog trainers in your area that may specialise in anxious pets. You can even request a Meet & Greet before booking their services, to see if this option is right for you and your pet. 

If your pet’s anxiety persists or worsens, seeking advice from a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviourist is strongly recommended. They can provide tailored strategies and any additional treatments or therapies suited to your pet’s specific needs.

Summary

Helping an anxious pet requires patience, understanding, and a multi-faceted approach. Creating a secure environment, providing mental stimulation, considering supplements like Pro Plan Calming Care, and implementing positive reinforcement techniques can significantly aid in alleviating anxiety. 

Remember though – every pet is unique, so finding the right combination of strategies may take time. Always prioritise your pet’s well-being and consult with professionals for the best possible care.

*Truselle-Schwarz McGowan, R. Tapping into those ‘gut feelings’: impact of BL999 (Bifidobacterium longum) on anxiety in dogs. ACVB Symposium 2018.

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Is there scientific research to back up the claim that dogs are the perfect mood-boosters? In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the mental health benefits of Dog Ownership. Here are eight ways that our furry friends help us feel better ♡

#1: Dogs boost feel-good chemicals

Our dogs make us happy – it’s just a fact! And according to the research, it’s happening on a neurochemical level.

Every time you interact with your dog, whether it’s through play, cuddling, or simple eye contact, your brain releases oxytocin. This brain chemical is responsible for feelings of trust, empathy, and relationship-building. When it’s released in the brain, we get that warm, fuzzy feeling that makes us say, “Who’s a good doggy?” every time we see our pup.

And it’s not just oxytocin that’s bouncing around in our brains when our dogs enter the room. Dopamine, another neurochemical that’s released when we interact with dogs, helps us to feel happy, alert, and motivated. So, when you’re having trouble staying focused at work, who knows; you may just need a play break with your pup! 

#2: Dogs relieve stress

If you’ve had a ruff day, your first instinct might be to put your feet up and have a good cuddle session with your dog. And, that’s actually a great idea!

According to a study released in 2011 featuring Dog Owners and Labradors, the act of petting your dog can reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the blood, while also lowering heart rate. Scientists believe this is because calm tactile interaction with animals is a stress-reducing activity.

Keep in mind, though, that our doggos tend to be sensitive to our own stress levels! If you’re coming home as a ball of stress everyday, your fur friend might experience an increase in stress, themselves. So, you might opt for a stress-reducing activity that is good for you and your furbaby, like exercise or a walk. 

To learn more about doggy mental health, take a look at our article on improving your pup’s wellbeing. 

#3: Dogs ease loneliness

The fact that we call doggos (hu)man’s best friend says it all. Dogs are wonderful companions! 

After all, even if you’ve got a traditionally independent dog, it’s comforting to be in the presence of a friend. And, dogs give us a sense of belonging, trust, and purpose. They rely on us for food, walkies, and playtime, which makes us feel more connected, therefore, less lonely.

Again, there’s a neurochemical element at play here, too. Remember that oxytocin makes us feel that all is right in the world, but it’s is also a key neurochemical for relationship building. Every time we interact with our dogs, we’re reminded of how wonderful it is to have a friend.

#4: Dogs introduce us to new people

On the one paw, our dogs ease our loneliness by being our constant companions. But our fluffy friends also expose us to a whole new network of people that we may otherwise have never met. 

Whenever you leave the house with your doggo, for instance, you may meet other dog lovers on the sidewalk, at restaurants, and dog-friendly events. If you and your pup tend to visit the same places consistently, you might also start to build relationships with your community members, including neighbours and business owners. 

And of course, there’s the network of other Dog Owners and Dog Sitters with whom you can bond over the joys and challenges of Dog Ownership. 

#5: Dogs improve your mental health by getting you outside

Whether your puppy is dragging you out of bed at sunrise, you’re exploring nature with your energetic dog, or simply stepping into the backyard to play a quick game of fetch, your dog is giving you a wonderful gift: outside time! 

According to a collection of research, being outside has been linked to short- and long-term mental health benefits, including stress resiliency and a decreased risk of depression.

If you can get you and your doggo to a place where the sounds of nature resound, even better! Bird calls, crashing waves, wind through the trees, and other nature sounds are great for relaxation.

#6: And they get you moving, too!

Going outside with your dog provides you the benefit of stress-relief and relaxation. But when you can get outside and move, you’re opening up a whole additional layer of mental (and physical) health benefits.

Exercise and mental wellbeing are closely related, and even mild activities can release an array of feel-good neurochemicals. Serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine are three main neurochemicals that are released during exercise, giving you both short-term happiness and long-term satisfaction. 

The key is to find a form of exercise that you enjoy doing with your dog. Whether it’s brisk walking, bicycle riding, or going for a jog, choose an activity that you and your pup can return to regularly. The more consistent you are with your outdoor adventures, the better your mental health will be in the long term.

#7: Dogs help you snooze

It’s something we’ve known for thousands of years: having a dog around makes us feel relaxed and protected. And that’s why having a dog in the home may actually give you better sleep.

Women, in particular, experience a significant improvement in sleep from sharing a bed with their furry friend, according to research from Canisius College in New York. The results show that women may get a better night’s sleep next to a dog than a human partner!

In terms of mental health, the benefits of quality sleep are numerous. Consistent sleep can reduce the effects of depression, anxiety, and a number of other mental illnesses. And, it can improve self-esteem and cognitive functioning. The keyword here, of course, is quality. If your pupper is interrupting your sleep, take a look at our article, How to Train Your Dog to Sleep Through the Night. 

And remember, your dog will sleep better when they’re in the presence of a caring human, too! If you’re going to be gone for the night, make sure your pup stays with a friendly local Dog Sitter.

#8: Your dog makes you laugh!

It’s easy to overlook this final mental health benefit of Dog Ownership, but the truth is, humour is healing. Laughing releases a flood of feel-good chemicals in the brain, like endorphins, while also decreasing stress chemicals. Humour can instantly change our moods and block feelings of anger and frustration. And, it can help us connect with others, especially if they also witnessed that very funny doggy moment. 

So, the next time your dog makes you laugh, take a moment to acknowledge how lucky you are to have a health-boosting comedian living under the same roof!

The science is clear: dogs improve your mental health in all kinds of ways

We can bet that you already knew just how much dogs improve your mental health. Now that you’ve seen the research, let us know which furry fact surprised you the most!

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Pet sitting an anxious dog? Here are some tips.

Before the stay

Before the stay begins, there’s plenty to be done in the lead up to avoid furry guests becoming unsettled when the booking finally begins. Both owners and sitters can take measures to reduce anxiety.

Meet & Greet

Having a meet and greet will allow the pet to start bonding with their sitter. When the furry guest is dropped off at a later date, they’ll already recognise their sitter. For a Pet Hosting booking, holding the meet & greet at the sitter’s home will allow the pooch to get used to the sights and smells of their temporary home and avoid them being overwhelmed when their stay starts.

A practice run

For longer bookings and particularly in the case of a pet who is known to be anxious, a practice stay could really help. The more time the pet spends at their sitter’s home, the better. A few hours here and there in the lead up to the booking could make a big difference!

Pack it up! 

Packing the right bag for a four legged guest is crucial. The more familiar items and smells they have, the less anxious they will feel. A blanket from home, their own dog bed or an owner’s item of clothing can be a great comfort whilst they get used to their new environment.

Prepare the space

Sitters can also get prepared for an anxious guest. Making sure their new roommate has a quiet, calm area to retreat to could help during the settling in period. Some pets need time to adjust and somewhere they can escape to away from noise or fussing!

During the stay

So the pet has been dropped off and is showing signs of being anxious and just can’t settle. What do you, the sitter, do?

Exercise

Working off excess energy can go a long way to calming a dog who is worked up. Taking him or her out for a walk,  allowing them to interact with other dogs and burn off their nervous energy could be all they need to settle. As an additional bonus, walking is an incredible way to bond with a dog, making them feel more comfortable around their sitter.

Distraction

How do a lot of humans cope with stress? We do something to take our minds off it! The same thing works for dogs. Play with them or, if they’re not comfortable enough to interact with you, give them a treat puzzle to solve or something to chew on. It’s amazing how easily some guests settle

Patience 

Try to understand that the dog does not know what’s happening and might not immediately understand they they are safe. Talking to them in a normal tone can help them to calm down as they can read your tone and are reassured that there’s nothing to panic about.

Ignore bad behaviour

Just as with puppies who you are teaching right from wrong – try to ignore unwanted behaviours. If you start ‘rewarding’ negative anxious behaviours with attention (even if it’s to tell them to stop) the dog may learn to repeat it. Instead, reward good behaviours like being calm and interacting with you.

Keep calm

Never shout at a dog for peeing or pooping in the house as they will not understand what they’ve done wrong – no matter how guilty they may look – and you will only feed their anxiety and show them that they were right to be frightened. What may look like a guilty dog to us is actually just a scared dog who doesn’t understand why they’re in trouble.

Some dogs settle very quickly into their new environment and almost all will settle after a few hours or the first night. If you continue having problems with a dog who won’t settle and have tried the advice above, you can always reach out to the Mad Paws Team for extra support.

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