Protecting your pup from harmful UV rays is crucial for their health. With growing awareness, more and more people ask, “Can a dog get sunburn?” and “How can I protect my pup.” That’s why Mad Paws Pet Store offers a range of sunscreen for dogs.

Still, with myths and misinformation floating around the internet, it can be challenging to choose the right product. So, let’s explore how you can best protect your pup.

Understanding sunburn in dogs

You may ask, “Can a dog get sunburn?” The simple answer is yes. However, the more important thing to understand is how this happens and the steps you can take to prevent it. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions regarding dogs and sunburn.

Can I use human sunscreen on a dog?

Firstly, human sunscreens are not suitable for animals. Dogs should use specifically formulated products that eliminate zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Dogs often lick their skin and are likely to ingest small amounts of sunscreen. Both zinc and PABA are toxic.

Does fur protect dogs from heat?

Your dog’s coat helps combat overheating but does not block out UV rays. Long fur offers good protection against overheating and sunburn but doesn’t offer complete protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Summer hazards for dogs

There are some hazards you might not think about. Hot roads and pathways can burn the paw pads. An easy way to test this is to place your bare foot on the path; if it’s too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog.

Also, animals can burn through glass. This is more common for indoor cats who spend hours bathing on windowsills, but it’s also possible for dogs to burn this way.

It’s not just sunburn that is a risk, either. Dehydration can make an animal sick, while heatstroke can lead to seizures. If you’re taking a trip to the beach, plan for a safe day.

Risk factors for sunburn in dogs

Before we discuss the risk factors for sunburn in dogs, it’s important to remember this:

All dogs are at risk of sunburn, which can cause health issues and lead to cancer.

One risk factor for sunburn is your dog’s breed. Hairless dogs and those with white coats, thin coats, or light-pigmented noses and eyelids are at greater risk.

What breed of dog gets sunburn?

• Boxers
• Bull terriers
• Chihuahuas
• Collies
• Dalmations
• French bulldogs
• Greyhounds
• Pitbulls
• Whippets

Certain factors can also affect your dog’s susceptibility to sunburn:

• Dogs with white fur tend to have paler skin, increasing their sunburn risk.
• The thinner the fur, the more skin is exposed. Hairless dogs are particularly susceptible.
• Medical conditions that lead to hair loss. These include allergies, skin parasites, and hormonal imbalances.
• Immune conditions that decrease skin pigmentation. These include lupus, which also reduces your dog’s natural sun protection.
• Animals with areas of scar tissue.
• Dogs that engage in “risky behaviours” such as sunbaking or regularly exposing their bellies.

In addition, all dogs have vulnerable areas, including the belly, ears, and nose. You also remove some of your dog’s sun protection if you shave them during the summer. If you decide to shave your pet, it’s worth consulting your vet to weigh up the pros and cons of your decision.

How to protect your dog from sunburn

Use pet-friendly sunscreen around vulnerable areas like the belly, ears and nose. While sunburn can occur on any part of your dog’s body, it is more common in the following areas:

• The ear flaps
• The nose bridge
• Thin-haired parts of the face, like the areas near the mouth and eyes
• The belly and groin, particularly if your dog sunbathes on their back, exposing this area.

1. Avoid peak sun hours

We all want to make the most of summertime by engaging in fun outdoor activities with our pups, but avoiding peak sunshine hours helps limit sun exposure. If you have to take your dog out between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., provide shade and use dog-friendly sunscreen. Ideally, take your dog for a walk during the cooler morning and evening hours.

If you’re heading out for the day, make sure you provide appropriate shade and plenty of fresh water. This is especially important if your dog is engaging in outdoor activities. The heat can quickly cause exhaustion if they don’t stay hydrated.

Use protective clothing and even doggy sunglasses to protect your pup from harmful UV rays. Rashies, sunsuits, hats, and glasses are all good options, depending on what your dog is comfortable wearing.

2. Choose a pet-safe sunscreen

When choosing sunscreen for your dog (or cat), it’s vital to pick a safe product. The best way to do this is to purchase a dog-specific cream specially formulated for canines. Still, it’s important to remember that all dogs are different, and some can react to certain products.

Before applying, test a small amount of cream on one patch of the skin to monitor for allergies. As long as your dog doesn’t react, you can go ahead and apply it to their vulnerable body areas, plus any places where they have light pigmentation.

While you may apply sunscreen to the nose bridge and ear flaps, you must avoid the eyes and surrounding areas. If sunscreen gets into your dog’s eyes, it can cause irritation. Additionally, monitor your dog until the cream dries to ensure it doesn’t lick it all off.

If your dog has wounds or skin conditions, try applying a sun filter and antibacterial cream. These products act like a second skin, keeping out dirt while retaining moisture. In addition, a sun filter cream helps protect your dog’s skin against harmful UV rays.

Image courtesy of https://www.cyddesign.com

How to put sunscreen on dogs:

Apply sunscreen roughly 20 minutes before your dog goes into the sun. Reapply every 4-6 hours and after your dog goes for a swim.

Brands like Petkin offer easy-to-apply sunscreen for dogs. You can choose a spray, wipe or stick for easy application, and the gentle, non-greasy formula was developed with dogs in mind.

If your dog attempts to lick the sunscreen, distract them with play. Even if the sunscreen is safe to consume, your dog will remove the layer of protection.

Signs of sunburn in dogs

Even if you apply sunscreen, your dog can still get sunburn. Dogs display similar symptoms to humans. These include:

• Dry, peeling or flaky skin.
• Blisters.
• Frequent scratching.
• Reddening areas of the skin.
• Tenderness around vulnerable areas.
• Rashes, wounds, and infections to the skin.
• Cracked or misshapen ear tips.

What can I put on my pet’s burn?

If your dog has a mild sunburn, you can take the following steps to soothe them:

1. Keep them out of the sun and heat for a few days.
2. Place a cool compress or wet towel on the affected areas to soothe the burn.
3. Aloe vera can offer some soothing properties, but you should only use it in small amounts. It is toxic to dogs, so if you put it in an area they can lick, you risk poisoning them.
4. Avoid giving your dog any medication before consulting with a vet. The wrong medication could exacerbate their symptoms.

Tip: it’s a good idea to keep a pet first aid kit handy to treat minor injuries quickly and safely.

When to seek veterinary care for severe sunburn

Severe sunburn can lead to fever, so in some instances you will need to consult a vet. Your vet can prescribe appropriate creams and medication to treat pain and soothe affected areas. If your dog is severely sunburned they may require additional fluids.

If you notice your dog whining, whimpering, or expressing pain when they move, it is definitely time to consult a vet.

Long-term health implications include melanoma and other types of skin cancer. The risk of cancer varies depending on the individual but decreasing your dog’s risk of sunburn is always beneficial. Seek advice immediately if your dog develops any masses or unusual skin changes.

Sun protection is vital for pets, especially in countries like Australia, where the sun can reach scorching temperatures. It only takes a few minutes of sun exposure for your dog to burn, so protective measures are essential.

If you’re planning a trip to the beach or other outdoor area, make sure you head to Mad Paws Pet Store to stock up on pet-friendly sunscreens and other essentials. Remember to share this article with your friends so that they, too, can keep their animals safe this summer.

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Mad Paws have been named 2024 Product Review Award Winner for best pet boarding and pet sitting service in Australia.

Our pets are precious members of our family. If we go away, we want to know that we’re leaving them in safe hands. That’s why Mad Paws is delighted to announce that, as voted by the public, we’re officially the best pet boarding and pet-sitting service for 2024.

The award from Product Review highlights why we’re the most trusted source of pet sitting services. Here’s why…

As voted by pet parents across Australia

The Product Review Award is prestigious because consumers vote for it. The website selects winners based on ratings, reviews, and your feedback – our customers. Here’s what some of our recent pet parents had to say:

“We were getting desperate about a dog sitter while we went to Melbourne for AFL GF. After some dead ends, a friend suggested Mad Paws. What a triumph. We had a fab dog sitter. The whole process was easy, reassuring and a reasonable price for a short-term sit. Loved it.”

“The Mad Paws experience is easy, seamless and user-friendly. We found a local pet sitter, who we met in advance and they were wonderful. The booking process is simple and the updates through the app while we were away was equally fantastic. Peace of mind knowing we can rely on Mad Paws in future!”

“We Chose Mad Paws because they screen their sitters, which reassured us the carers we chose to look after our girls were suitable and trustworthy. The carers we chose did a wonderful job caring for our girls.”

Product Review isn’t the only website where our customers share their stories. We have a 4.6-star rating on Google from over 1,100 reviews, 4.1 stars on Trustpilot, and a 4.4-star review from our employees on Indeed.

Why Mad Paws is Australia’s most trusted pet boarding & pet sitting service

Not only do our customers and employees rate us across several prominent platforms we also have the stats and facts to back up our trustworthiness as a brand.

• To date, we have over 2 million completed bookings.
• We employ over 50,000 sitters, walkers, daycare providers, and trainers across Australia.
• We have multiple years of experience assisting pet owners in finding passionate and trusted local pet sitters when they need to go away.
• We have a thorough vetting procedure (only one in four applicants are accepted as pet sitters).
• You don’t pay your sitter until the end of your pet’s stay, so they won’t receive payment until you approve.

There are a multitude of reasons why our customers keep coming back. Here are just a few of them:

Trained professionals. Our sitters complete an online training program and a four-step verification process to ensure they have the skills to provide your pet with the highest level of care.

Personalised care. Instead of the impersonal kennel or cattery experience, your pet will experience a mini-break of their own. You can specify unique routines and requirements with one-to-one service to ensure your pet feels pampered.

Easy booking. Search for pet sitters near me with our easy address finder, view the profiles and feedback for sitters in your area, and then chat. You can arrange a meeting and give personalised instructions to the sitter of your choice.

Peace of mind. With 2 million bookings under our belt, Mad Paws knows the complete process of linking you with the right sitter. As a trusted Australian brand, you can book confidently, knowing that our thoroughly vetted employees are some of the best in the business.

Convenience and flexibility. Do you have a house cat that hates leaving home? You may have a young pup who needs constant attention. The best part about Mad Paws is you get to choose the right care plan for your pet. Have our sitters visit you or take advantage of our pet boarding services.

Range of pets and services. We provide daycare, grooming, walking, training and any other care you can think of for all pets. We know dogs and cats aren’t the only non-human family members, so we recruit sitters to look after birds, rabbits and guinea pigs too. At Mad Paws, we care about providing the best service for all pets.

We understand that leaving your animal companion with an unknown person can make holiday planning stressful. That’s why we do the hard work to ensure quality sitters and a luxury service so that your pet can enjoy its own vacation while you sit back and relax.

Ready to find your pet’s perfect match?

Browse, select & book a Mad Paws Pet Sitter near you >

The post Mad Paws awarded ‘Best Pet Boarding and Pet Sitting Service 2024’ appeared first on Mad Paws.

Let’s take a look at the various devices and tech you can use to make caring for pets easier for us and much better for them!

The advantages of technology for pets

Technology is implemented in every corner of our lives, we constantly use it to make our everyday lives easier, faster and often more entertaining. Whilst our dogs can’t use a mobile phone, that doesn’t mean they can’t benefit from technology and what it can do. 

Pet Cameras:

Pet cameras have become a useful tool for many reasons, especially after COVID-19 many pets suffered from separation anxiety, and frankly so did us humans. Pet cameras enable us to watch our pets when we leave them alone so we know they’re safe and not distressed. If they are distressed when left alone, they’re a great tool to help us understand why and implement training and other techniques to help manage our pets’ separation anxiety. 

Keep an eye out for a free pet smart camera when you sign up to Waggly Club. Follow them on socials to stay in the loop!

GPS Trackers:

GPS trackers such as air tags and specific pet trackers on the market help us locate pets in the unfortunate event they get lost or track their movements. Similarly, microchips are logged in a nationwide database to ensure pets are registered to their families. Microchips work similar to a passport, logging where and when the pet has been registered to an owner, rescue etc and helping keep track of their movements. 

Technology for pets’ medicine:

Veterinary medicine has also come leaps and bounds with the help of technology. From the tools within a vet clinic to revolutionised surgery techniques, technology has helped us make sure our pets live much healthier lives. Laparoscopic surgery with pets has enabled vets to spey pets much more efficiently and with decreased complications and recovery time. Check out this article from Pet Chemist, about the importance of de-sexing our pets.

Behind the scenes, there have also been major developments in the way they test blood (AlphaTRAK is a popular product among Vets to monitor blood glucose levels in pets), analysis for germs, development in treatment etc. Technology has also enabled us to now DNA test pets to determine their breed makeup and genetics! This helps predict and manage health complications, ethical breeding or just being a curious rescue pet parent. 

Automated home essentials:

There are also plenty of pet technologies that you can incorporate into your pet’s everyday life. There’s so much out there nowadays, from automatic litterboxes, auto pet feeders and water fountains, and air purifiers to pet training apps and automatic ball launchers.

Cleaning up after pets and keeping all their things sanitary can be time-consuming. Pet tech products such as automatic litterboxes or air purifiers helps maintain cleanliness and minimise the risks that come with filth. Automatic water fountains are a great tool for dogs, they help keep their water fresh and stop dirt, grime and other residue from building up so fast.

Similarly, air purifiers are great at keeping the air clean from hair, germs, excess moisture etc. Having pets in the home whilst amazing can mean loads of extra germs so keeping the air clean with air purifiers is a great way to manage that. 

Advancements in toy technology for pets:

Lastly, technology has given us the ability to entertain, exercise and stimulate our pets with ease. Smart toys and pet apps mean that we can meet a lot of our pets’ mental and physical needs at home. Smart toys range from automatic ball launchers, electronic herding balls, toys with built-in treat dispensers and much more. Whilst not perfect for every scenario they’re great to help dogs meet their needs, practice new games, build independence and other skills. Pet apps such as training apps are also a great way to work with your dog to improve their manners, learn new tricks or provide ample stimulation all at home without the time or budget demands of a real-life trainer. 

The future is bound to bring an abundance of useful technology for our pets!

The post The rise of technology for pets appeared first on Mad Paws.

Cecelia has been pet-sitting for 7 years now, and loves it more than ever! For the last two years, she’s been Pet Sitting full time, only spending max 5 weeks at her parent’s house a year in between jobs or for a break. Suffice to say, she’s got lots of experience and is in demand!

Read Cecelia’s pet sitting story, in her own words:

My first pet-sitting job was in 2017 when a family I babysat for asked me to take care of their 10-week-old golden retriever puppy for 2 weeks while they visited family interstate. It was a no-brainer, being 18 and thinking “oh boy, 2 weeks with this bundle of cuteness” (see photo below for full effect). I had two family dogs at this stage so I was wise to the care of dogs but ignorant to the effort of a puppy.

The two weeks were a blast and I’ve been taking care of that puppy, Teddy ever since. Sadly they moved to another state a year ago and honestly, it was heartbreaking, part of me considered him my own. Luckily by then, I’d built up a client base of about 20 dogs on regular rotation who I loved! 

Straight out of school, I began volunteering at my local rescue shelter, 3 months later started working there and another 3 months later became lead kennel hand. Working with rescue dogs compares to nothing else, the bond you form with them as they overcome their trauma is unmatched. As some of my favourites started to trickle out of the shelter into wonderful homes, I’d often visit them and this snowballed into me pet-sitting them when their families went away. From 2kg Chihuahuas to 55kg Great Dane crosses I’ve seen and cared for (almost) all of it. 

“Working at the rescue shelter enabled me to learn amazing handling skills, and not to toot my own horn but as a young female, I still feel proud I can manage 50+ kg dogs with ease even when they’re reacting like crazy or unfortunately trying to bite me.”

My journey with Mad Paws:

As I realised I wanted to petsit more I joined Mad Paws and created a profile that brought me some wonderful clients I still sit for today. My local area is however mostly oodles and little dogs, which I love, I have one of my own but I like to work with big dogs and somewhat complicated cases. 

As the years went on I became a vet nurse and juggled that with working at the rescue so my handling skills improved even more and my growing medical knowledge enabled me to take medical cases like post-surgery rehab or diabetic dogs.

My full-time jobs allowed me to make some wonderful connections in the industry and I now have an extensive network of rescues, vets and trainers who recommend me to their clients and I direct them straight to my Mad Paws profile.

This often means my meet-and-greet process is very different. I sometimes spend months bonding with dogs before agreeing to do a pet sit for them. Honestly, my weakness is dogs who are shy, aggressive or reactive. Winning them over is unbeatable. I do this by slowly building a relationship, starting with a weekly or fortnightly walk with the Owner there and gradually making our way to walks alone, daycare without the Owner and then always, always, always an overnight trial!!

Whilst I learnt a tonne of skills from my jobs which I’ve been able to use to excel in my pet-sitting career I’ve learnt a lot of things from pet-setting. 

• The benefits of Pet Sitting in their home! For more complicated dogs the more you can stick to their routine, the better. They prefer their home without a doubt.
• Airtags. Only once have I ever had a cat go neighbourhood wandering for a day (thankfully to return home safely) but I now put an Airtag on the collar of every dog in my care and ensure they have a quick-release collar so they never get trapped or caught on things. 
• Meet & Greet, one isn’t always enough and 0 is always too few. I prefer to do 2-3 meet-ups with the dog before any booking as normally it’s 2+ weeks. The more comfortable the dog is with me, the easier the booking goes.

Spending time with dogs is one of life’s greatest pleasures and in today’s society filled with apartment living, housing crisis, and cost of living crises it’s a luxury to own a dog. I don’t ever intend to stop pet-sitting but I hope one day soon I’ll settle into my own place and foster dogs so that my pet-sitting skills can enable dogs to find the loving homes they deserve. 

Find a Sitter near you >

The post Sitter Stories: Meet Cecelia from Sydney appeared first on Mad Paws.

Aylie has always loved animals and wanted to share her love by caring for as many as she could.

As one half of the dynamic sitting duo with her Mum, she began pet sitting from a young age and it’s given her the ability to buy her first car and save for a house, all while completing distance education and graduating high school.

This is Aylie’s Mad Paws Sitter story:

Being a Mad Paws Sitter fits my overall lifestyle super well. It’s an easy way to save money on the side doing something I love. I’ve been able to make extra money on top of my other job because it’s extremely flexible, and you are your own boss so it teaches you lots of business skills and communication skills.

Bonding with the quiet or shy dogs is always so special…There is something so personal about caring for dogs at your house especially when it’s for long periods and they get super comfortable being part of your family.

Any special experience or memory that’s come from pet sitting?

I don’t have one particular booking or memory, but we actually own a Border Collie named Sassy that used to be a client of ours and now she has been a part of the family for years! We wouldn’t have met her if it hadn’t been for Mad Paws and we are so grateful for the opportunity to have her come about.

Read what Pet Owners say about Aylie:

View Aylie’s Profile >

Find a Sitter near you >

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In this article, we explore the difference between a Pet Sitter and a traditional dog boarding kennel or cattery…

Pet Sitter v. Dog Boarding Kennel or Cattery

Picture this: Your pet, nestled comfortably in their own home or a cosy Pet Sitter’s place, surrounded by familiar sights and smells. This is the ideal setting for your pet, as it minimises environmental changes, which is key to their well-being. Pets are creatures of habit, and any significant change in their surroundings can be stressful. With a Pet Sitter, you’re ensuring that your furry friend experiences as little disruption as possible.

Pet Sitting presents 3 key components: minimal environmental changes, maintaining a personalised routine, and a bond. 

Minimising changes in the pet’s environment

Pet’s behaviour is extremely influenced by the environment, therefore the goal is to have as few environmental changes as possible. The environmental changes are minimal in their own home or in a Pet Sitter’s home, which is ideal for the pet. The Owner not being present is a very big environmental change to start with, so anything beyond that is going to cause excess stress to the pet. 

When Pet Sitting in the pet’s home, you’re minimising environmental changes as much as possible. It’s also ideal for maintaining their exact routine. Although maintaining their routine is also possible in the Pet Sitter’s home (Pet Hosting), the pet is in an unfamiliar environment. However, the biggest benefit in both these services is that you offer a personalised routine rather than adjusting to the routine and schedule of a large facility. 

Personalised care and routine

One of the standout advantages of choosing a Pet Sitter is the ability to maintain your pet’s exact routine. Whether it’s their meal times, playtime, or bedtime rituals, a Pet Sitter ensures that your four-legged friend continues with business as usual. This personalised routine is a game-changer. Unlike large facilities where pets must adapt to a predetermined schedule, a Pet Sitter caters to your pet’s individual needs. 

Less risk of exposure to infectious illnesses

In a Pet Sitter’s care, your furry friend enjoys a one-on-one experience. This means limited contact with other animals, greatly reducing the risk of exposure to infectious illnesses that can spread in group settings, like kennels.

Ticks and fleas are highly contagious. If one dog in a kennel is infested, there’s a risk of the parasites spreading to other dogs through close contact. This can lead to multiple dogs becoming infested, resulting in discomfort and potential health issues. Same goes for ringworm – being highly contagious, it can spread through direct contact with an infected dog or even via shared (contaminated) surfaces. Dogs in close quarters at a boarding kennel are at risk of contracting the infection if proper precautions are not taken.

A Pet Sitter becomes a trusted companion

Pets thrive on companionship and affection, and a Pet Sitter provides just that. They not only care for your pet’s physical needs but also offer the invaluable gift of a special one-on-one bond that grows with each visit. Your pet becomes more than just a client; they become a cherished companion to the Pet Sitter.

How to choose the best Sitter for your pet

With an online platform like Mad Paws, you’ll have the luxury of an abundance of choice. Searching for a Pet Sitter in your local area, that can offer everything your pet needs, is as simple as a few clicks!

To help find and select the best Pet Sitter is crucial decision to ensure your furry friend receives the care and attention they deserve.

Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision:

1. Services offered: When reviewing the Pet Sitters in your area, check what specific services they offer – overnight stays at their home (pet hosting), pet sitting (at your/your pet’s home), dog walking, dog training, doggy day care, house visits, or even dog grooming. And, do you need any additional support, such as pick-up or drop-off service? Their profile will highlight the inclusions of any given booking and/or any ‘extras’ they offer their clients.

2. Reputation and Reviews: This is always a good place to start. On their profile, check their past reviews. A Pet Sitter with a positive reputation and satisfied clients is a good sign of reliable service.

3. Experience and Qualifications: Assess the Pet Sitter’s experience with different types of animals, especially if you have a specific breed of pet or an exotic pet. Certification or training in pet care and first aid can also be valuable.

4. Insurance and Bonding: Ensure the pet sitter has liability insurance and bonding. This protects both you and the pet sitter in case of accidents or unforeseen circumstances.

5. Meet and Greet: Arrange a meeting with the Pet Sitter before hiring them. This allows you to assess their demeanour, professionalism, and how well they interact with your pet.

6. Emergency Plans: Find out about their emergency protocols. What would they do in case of a pet health emergency or other unexpected situations?

7. Communication: Monitor whether the Pet Sitter is responsive to your initial enquiries – this will help determine their communication levels while your pet is in their care.

8. Pet Compatibility: Find out if they have experience with your specific type of pet, its breed, and any special needs or behaviours it may have. This is not always crucial, as your gut will give you a good feeling even if they don’t have a wealth of experience, but it can certainly help provide the best care.

In conclusion, while kennels and catteries have their place, the personalised care offered by a Pet Sitter makes it the superior choice for Australian Pet Owners. Choosing a Pet Sitter is choosing the very best for your pet’s well-being and happiness. So, why settle for anything less? 

The post Pet Sitter or Dog Boarding Kennel, what’s the difference? appeared first on Mad Paws.

Why do pets show destructive behaviours?

Destructive behaviour in pets always has a root cause, and understanding it will help prevent and manage it. A pet will often need to be taught how to utilise the replacement outlet you provide, showing them how to use it and continually re-directing them to it will dictate its success. 

Managing destructive behaviours in cats

Cats’ two main destructive behaviours are scratching and chewing both with various root causes. They can be trickier to deter or train than dogs, as cats can be known for their stubborn and self-serving nature. Like any animal, it’s best to raise them with these boundaries and habits but it’s never too late to stop destructive behaviour.  

Why do cats scratch?

Cats often scratch at furniture (specifically couches) and it occurs when they don’t have a reasonable alternative such as a scratching post. Scratching has a much higher chance of occurring when the cat moves environments because it’s a marking behaviour. Hosting cats creates increased risks because they’re much less habituated to the outside environment than dogs, so it’ll likely be more stressful and disorientating for them. 

To ‘stop’ scratching doesn’t mean to stop the cat from scratching altogether, it simply means stopping them from scratching anything they like and re-directing the behaviour to an appropriate outlet like a scratching post…instead of your couch! Re-directing the behaviour requires more than sticking a scratching post in the corner of the room. You must understand their preferences and teach them to use the replacement. To start, interrupt their scratching when it’s on the furniture and move them to the alternative. Follow up by rewarding them when they use the alternative. Keep this consistent, and in time they’ll learn to only use the alternative and the furniture will be safe. To prevent damage during the process you can place scratch guards or use a deterrent spray (such as citronella) on the areas to deter the cat from scratching there. 

Scratching can sometimes be a display of emotion, especially excitement, or to remove dead parts off their nails. These will be much shorter bursts of scratching and the excitement shouldn’t be deterred so ensure you’re extremely positive about it and continue to re-direct them.

Unwanted chewing behaviour in cats

Chewing is another destructive behaviour in cats. Like all animals, it’s very prevalent during the teething stages. They also chew to use their back teeth at all ages or to entertain themselves, which is why you should always provide safe opportunities for chewing. In addition to providing safe options, you should protect electrical cords, remove toxic plants, and keep valuables out of reach. Alternatives for cats to chew include soft toys, chewy treats, dental chews and cat-specific chew toys. To replace the behaviour, it’s the same as scratching, interrupting the inappropriate behaviour, providing the alternative and rewarding the use of the alternative. 

Excessive chewing in cats can be an indicator of poor dental health or gum disease. Other symptoms such as bad breath, bleeding gums, decreased appetite, poor grooming and not chewing meals, in addition to excessive chewing, should be checked by a vet. 

Play is an important component in preventing destructive behaviour in cats. Because they’re ‘hunting’ animals, interactive play is great at preventing boredom. Flirt poles, moving toys or hanging toys are great to keep them engaged and allow an outlet for energy and hunting desires. 

Managing destructive behaviour in dogs

Dogs’ destructive behaviours are more complex than cats, and due to size, can often be much more impactful. The top 6 destructive behaviours are: digging, barking, marking, jumping, chewing and escaping. Often destructive behaviour indicates that their needs are not being met and they’re trying to self-serve because their environment isn’t sufficient. Stopping these behaviours completely isn’t always the goal, though. Sometimes re-directing them is all that’s needed.

It’s important to remember that these persistent behaviours can be a dog’s way of trying to raise a red flag that something’s wrong, or at times just seeking information in an uncertain or new environment. Another reason dogs might do any of these behaviours is referred to as displacement behaviour, where a dog is overwhelmed with emotion and chooses that in an attempt to self-soothe in the way they grab a toy when people enter the home. 

Managing digging behaviours in dogs

Digging is an intrinsic behaviour for plenty of breeds – burrowing and hunting breeds especially. It also serves as entertainment and resource-seeking. Dogs can sometimes even ‘dig’ when there is nothing to dig (like on a bed or the carpet) and even think they can bury a bone in the couch. This is to make their bed more comfortable, scent mark or attempt to bury food, normal behaviours for all kinds of dogs. 

Digging is in a way a tool for dogs, who might dig to escape, seek resources and self-soothe. Re-directing the behaviour starts with understanding why they’re digging. Majority of the time it will be for entertainment and to fulfil those intrinsic behaviours. The most common solution is teaching them how to use the appropriate alternative, it’s a simple process. Start by interrupting when they dig in an inappropriate area, re-direct them to an appropriate area to dig and reward them when they use the replacement. Repeat this process until their first choice is the appropriate option. 

Alternative options include a kiddie pool full of sand or dirt, a snuffle mat, a sandpit, a designated digging spot in the garden or a DIY digging pit. Depending on the dog’s likes you can fill it with soft scraps, dirt, sand, balls, towels or whatever takes their fancy.

Unwanted or excessive barking in dogs

A very common behaviour that’s thought to be destructive in pets is barking. Barking is a very common self-soothing exercise for dogs which only re-inforces them to bark more since it makes them feel better. Barking is also a form of communication so they use it to express themselves or seek information. Unfortunately, dogs do not get tired of barking so waiting it out rarely ever works. 

Barking is often caused by stress and or boredom. The best way to avoid consistent barking is to keep the pet occupied, stimulated, well rested and fulfilled. Ensuring their basic needs, food, water, exercise and mental stimulation is a great start. Always having plenty of opportunities for play, rest and company is the next level to keeping them satisfied. 

If barking is caused by stress, the first step is to comfort them and help them settle. Whether you should reach for a toy, a treat or a cuddle is dependent on the dog and their preference. Dogs that are prone to stress or response barking benefit greatly from having music or noise on in the background to help fade the noises that are causing the barking. If a dog is barking at you consistently, they’re most likely information seeking, trying to make sense of what’s happening. This is common when a dog’s owner leaves for the first time or with strangers. Comforting them and providing calming stimulation activities should help them settle. 

When your dog is marking their territory

Marking is primarily common in male dogs, often exacerbated when there are existing urine smells around or in un-desexed dogs. Getting rid of urine odour is the key to avoiding future markings from other dogs, or repeats. Strong odour removal products and vinegar are the most effective. Believe it or not, household cleaning products won’t do a good enough job. A dog’s sense of smell is much stronger than ours so they’ll be able to pick up any hint of scent. 

The most common solution is teaching them it’s not okay to toilet inside – but don’t worry, it’s a simple process. Start by interrupting when you catch them they’re urinating (or about to urinate) inside, and re-direct them to an outside area to do or finish their business. Make sure you reward them when they do. Repeat this process until their first choice is outside. 

If the pet doesn’t correct their behaviour, you can utilise tools like belly bands or dog nappies with the owner’s permission. 

Unwanted jumping behaviour in dogs

Jumping can quickly become dangerous – knocking over children, furniture, or other pets – and is usually trained out of puppies thankfully. Unfortunately though, when a dog becomes overstimulated it can become jumpy and without regulating their emotions can get nippy. Jumping can also be a seeking behaviour, jumping for a toy or treat which isn’t a reflection of good manners. 

Jumping can be difficult to combat when caused by overstimulation. To start, the aim is to replace the destructive behaviours. Try to snap the pet out of that mindset by asking them to do something simple they’re familiar with, like sit. Ignoring the behaviour can also be useful. If they’re jumping, refrain from screaming, jumping back or reacting. Reacting to the behaviour can worsen the situation because if their intention is to seek attention, this teaches them that it works. 

If jumping is situational – like walking through the door when coming home – you need to implement a routine where the dog is calm before you greet them. Do this by asking them to sit when you walk through the door, rewarding the sit and then greeting them. Or waiting for them to stop jumping and then greeting them. There are multiple ways but which is most effective depends on the dog and the scenario.

Problematic chewing in dogs

Chewing is a very important behaviour for dogs. Like babies, it soothes them through painful teething phases and is crucial to their mental and physical health. Chewing is an intrinsic behaviour for dogs – great to help mentally stimulate them. Chewing releases endorphins for dogs and helps avoid boredom. This can become problematic, however, when they chew the wrong things such as furniture, toxic plants, clothes or valuables. Providing appropriate chewing outlets stops them from searching to fulfil their need on their own. Constant chewing on appropriate items helps maintain teeth and gum health for dogs too. 

Teething phases in dogs are present until 7-8 months old, so any puppy under the age of 1 has a higher probability of destructive chewing behaviours. Constant chewing and teething behaviour is often present until 18 months old when the dogs begin to enter adolescence. Nipping, biting and chewing can be signs of teething pain, so providing lots of chewing options and soothing chewing options (like frozen chews) can ease their pain. 

Opportunities to chew should be available for dogs at all stages of development, even older dogs need it. There are plenty of options, some need supervision and some don’t. Goat horns, pig ears, raw bones, dental chews, chew toys, frozen meat, frozen vegetables, long-lasting chews, chicken wings, chicken necks etc.  Supervising dogs when they have chews like a goat’s horn or a chicken wing is crucial to ensure they don’t swallow too big of a chunk that can damage their intestines or swallow it whole and choke.

Managing pets who are known for escaping

Escaping pets cause extremely dangerous situations. They run the risk of being hit by a car, being stolen, getting trapped, or getting lost too far from home. It’s common for pets to try to find their way home when they escape, but it can be extremely disorientating if in a new environment like a sitter’s home. If the dog has separation anxiety or an extreme bond to their owner, they might try to escape any new environment. 

Pet proofing the home is the best way to prevent escapees, ensuring you can supply secure fencing and keep doors and windows locked etc. Always use caution when entering or leaving the home – often pets slip through the door unsuspectingly! If a pet is prone to escaping, ensure they have a name tag with a number and or address. Having a handful of temporary ones to place on pets in your care with your details is always helpful. There are also more extreme options like trackers or air tags to be able to find them in the unfortunate event they do escape.

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Not only is it a breeze to find someone in your area, but you also have complete peace of mind that your furry friend will receive personalised care… exactly like they’re used to at home.

So you’ve landed on the Mad Paws website and notice there are several services available. From doggy day care to grooming, quick house (and pet) visits, and overnight pet sitting.

When it comes to overnight pet care services, Mad Paws offer pet sitting as well as pet hosting.

…Not entirely sure what the difference is? No worries! 

Let us explain each service to help guide you to the right solution for you and your fur baby!

How does pet sitting work?

Pet sitting is a service that takes place at your home. Where you’d rather have your pet stay in their own familiar environment for the duration of the booking, Pet Sitting is the way to go.

The beauty of pet sitting through Mad Paws means your fur friend can stay in their own ‘safe space’ and have all their creature comforts while you’re away. This option is ideal for pets who may experience stress or anxiety if their routine is disrupted, or if they have specific medical or behavioural needs that require them to remain home.

The pros and cons of pet sitting:

There are lots of advantages to choosing pet sitting, for your pet and also for you!

• Having the Pet Sitter come to you means you get the benefit of a 2-in-1 service. Your pet is cared for and you have someone looking after your home too! If you’re going away for more than a few days and would prefer not to leave your home unattended, a Sitter helps provide some home security! Giving the appearance that someone’s home can help deter any unwanted visitors who like to take advantage of vacant homes…!
• For pets who suffer from stress, anxiety or any behavioural issues, having them remain in their familiar surroundings helps minimise any disruption. It also means the Sitter has the benefit of seeing them thrive and be their best self.
• If a prerequisite for your booking is for the Sitter not to take on any other bookings at the same time, choosing pet sitting means your pet/s are the one and only focus. This is ideal for animals who don’t get along well with others or where they have compromised health in any sense.

When it comes to pet sitting, one factor to consider, compared with pet hosting, is that you may find a smaller pool of caregivers who offer this service. Many sitters are more inclined to welcome pets into their home, so it’s simply a matter of finding the right fit for your needs. With over 40,000 caregivers on our platform, you’re sure to find your pet’s perfect match!

How does pet hosting work?

Pet hosting is where your pet enjoys their own holiday, with your preferred Pet Sitter! If you’d rather not invite a Sitter to stay at your place while you’re away, this is the perfect solution to give your furry friend some company (and care) without the hassle of hosting.

The duration of the booking takes place at the Sitter’s house, which means they have a new environment to explore! The Sitter ‘host’ provides a comfortable, pet-friendly environment and often has other animals, which can be an excellent socialisation opportunity for your pet. 

The pros and cons of pet hosting:

Pet hosting offers heaps of benefits for your fur friend:

• It’s perfect for social pets who enjoy the company of other animals. They can make friends with the Sitter’s pets and enjoy endless amounts of playtime with their own kind.
• It’s a great opportunity for them to access new toys, a new space to play, and lots of new sights & smells to stimulate their senses!
• Pet hosting is also considered a much better experience than booking them into a traditional dog boarding kennel or cattery. In this case, they’re in a home environment where your pet receives personalised care as unique as they are!

With pet hosting, it’s important to make sure that all your preferences are included. A Meet & Greet is a perfect way to ask any necessary questions, such as: 

• Is your home secure / completely fenced?
• Do you have any pets, or are you planning to take any other booking simultaneously?

Once you’re satisfied that the environment will be suitable for your pet, you can lock in the booking and expect lots of photos showing your fur baby enjoying their staycation!

Pet Sitting vs. Pet Hosting – what are the similarities?

Whether you choose pet sitting or pet hosting through Mad Paws, you can be assured that your fur friend is in the best hands with our community of Sitters. 

With every Mad Paws service, you can expect:

• Your pet receives personalised care, lots of playtime, and an abundance of love and attention.
• Where particular exercise, dietary requirements, and even where any medical support or administration is required, your chosen Mad Paws caregiver will have everything covered!
• Peace of mind, knowing that your booking is covered under insurance. And our Customer Service team is available anytime to help.
• Lastly, the best part is the constant supply of photos and updates so you know your fur friend is doing well and having a great time!

Ready to start the search for your pet’s perfect match?

Search for a Pet Host >

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It’s even lead to their engagement… Keep reading to find out how!

“Looking after all these dogs has been an amazing journey, one that’s not over yet!”

This is their Mad Paws story:

When we moved to Sydney 2 years ago, Libby (my partner) had previously dog and house-sat when we lived in London. I was looking for work at the time and saw Mad Paws as a chance to earn some income whilst interviewing for full-time work. Plus getting paid to play with puppies is pretty awesome! 

We signed up, completed the course and by that weekend had our first meet and greet at a cafe with Oscar – a 16-week-old German Shepherd puppy. His dad was having to go back into the office more and needed someone to care for him during the day. I said we could have him at our place for daycare or I could come spend the day at his house.

We’ve watched Oscar grow up over the last two years and when I finally did get a job, he was able to join me in the office. He’s now a very friendly, excitable 2.5-year-old puppy that we look after regularly as his father is travelling more and more. We love being able to have dogs in our lives especially because we couldn’t own a pet in our apartment. 

We’ve been pet sitters in Sydney on Mad Paws for two years now and have stayed all over the city. We’ve been able to explore several different parts of town, and after dog sitting (at the Owner’s house) over Xmas/New Years in Balmain watching the fireworks from their balcony, we decided we wanted to live there so moved not long after that dog sitting job. Now we have about a dozen regular pets in the area that we look after. It’s always nice to see them and their Owners out and about in our neighbourhood.

We have had some really beautiful dogs and cats, in some really nice homes too. We have learnt to be really honest with Owners each time we meet and greet. We tell them we both work so won’t be home full time, ask if they have cameras, and if there’s anything else we can do to help them whilst they’re away (water the plants, take the bins out). 

We set up WhatsApp groups with families so they can all see their pets whilst they’re away. We ensure that we leave the house as clean (or cleaner) than when we got there, that way they know that we take care of their home and pet

We’ve really enjoyed our time as pet sitters in Sydney and London and now have had more exposure to what we want in a pet and the expectations we have around pet ownership. We know what kind of pets we want! We’re not afraid to let pet parents know how their animals are behaving, especially if there’s something not quite right.

Surprisingly they appreciate knowing that their pets aren’t quite normal or that their dog has scratched up the doorframe getting too excited. Open communication is important from both parties. We like Mad Paws for the comfort that the insurance offers us and the calendar functionality. It’s also pretty cool to see how people review your services knowing that so many other pet owners will read these reviews. 

Our key rings have at least a dozen different keys and we’ve learnt the hard way the importance of labelling them. 

Looking after all these dogs has been an amazing journey, one that’s not over yet! But one of the best things to come out of this was that I used all my Pet Sitting money and bought Libby my now fiancé a dreamy engagement ring!           

– Daniel & Libby

Read what Pet Owners say about Daniel & Libby:

View Daniel & Libby’s Profile >

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As a pet parent, curating their ideal environment and meeting their physical and mental needs is more important than ever.

How environment impacts a pet’s behaviour

Dogs are highly influenced by their environment. Their sensitivity to environmental changes is dependent on their upbringing and previous experiences. Every component of an environment can impact a dog’s behaviour, and understanding how each component can impact a dog is crucial for their carer to create the ideal environment for them and or help them manage challenges in their environment. Dogs thrive off routine so the more consistent and calm their environment is, the better. 

Why is consistency and calmness so important? 

Dogs rely on routine – if they don’t have routine or consistency their behaviour can be as unpredictable as their environment. A consistent baseline is ideal. Feeding, walking, sleeping and the other basics happening at the same time each day can help a dog adapt to changes. If these essentials are inconsistent, however, it can be problematic.

When a dog doesn’t feel secure in their environment and feels like their needs aren’t being met, their behaviour will reflect this and they will seek to fulfil them themselves. This can manifest in unfavourable ways such as confusion, frustration, resource guarding or destructive behaviour. It can also manifest in the pet shutting down or refusing to do simple things like drinking water.

How important is socialisation?

How well a dog is socialised will influence their behaviour. Early exposure to diverse environments, people, animals, and stimuli helps dogs develop social skills, confidence, and resilience. Socialisation can be done at an older age if necessary, but is optimal in the critical learning stage of 0-20 weeks old. A lack of proper socialisation can lead to fear, anxiety, and aggression later in life. Socialisation and habituation go hand in hand. When done correctly, they will teach a dog how to confidently deal with the human world and have healthy boundaries for things like play and food.

How changes in environment can impact a pet’s behaviour

As each dog is an individual so is their response to their environment. This is where the responsibility falls on the carer to know the dog and cater to them. As a Pet Sitter, knowing their routine, regular environment and how well they cope with change is key to avoiding any behavioural issues.

With any change in environment – moving home temporarily, Owners leaving, living with other pets – a behaviour change should be expected. 

The top 3 major changes for a Pet Owner, Pet Sitter or carer to consider are home changes, living with other pets and carer changeover. Proactive measures are the best way to minimise a negative reaction to the changes. 

Tips for helping a pet adjust to a changing environment

Here are our top tips to understand how environment impacts a pet’s behaviour and how to help them adjust to change.

Change in a home:

• Bring their bed, food & water bowl, favourite toy or any other daily items that can bring them comfort and a sense of normality.
• Conduct a pre-visit so they can have a positive experience and create a sense of familiarity when they return.
• Go slowly – come in and spend some time settling the pet with you and ensuring they’re okay.
• Keep their same routine. Try to keep feeding, walking and bedtime at the same time so there is some consistency for them.
• Maintain boundaries and mimic what rules they know and understand. For example, not letting them on the couch if they’re not allowed usually.

Living with other pets: 

• Do a slow introduction for each new pet entering the home. 
• Ideally, allow the pets to meet in a neutral environment beforehand.
• Ensure each pet has a place they can go to rest or sleep where the others can’t disturb them. This is particularly important, as having a sanctuary that theirs will create a sense of safety and security. 
• Keep the pets separated when feeding them. 
• Monitor the pets to ensure they’re getting along.
• Ensure the space is adequate for the amount and size of pets living/staying there.

Carer changeover: 

• If it’s a Pet Sitting booking, organise a Meet & Greet before the booking. If you’ve got time, do regular dog walks or occasional visits to build a bond before the booking starts.
• Be super positive – you want to create a ‘Santa Claus’ persona in the eyes of the dog! Making them feel that you are someone who is comforting, gives treats and cuddles, and looks forward to spending time with them.
• Maintain consistency – attempt to keep the same habits the Owner or previous carer has, such as sleeping in the bed or playing tug which strengthens your bond.
• Respect their boundaries. A dog might not be as comfortable with you as they are their Owner or a previous Carer so don’t rush into things like putting their harness on or picking them up. Listen to their body language and only engage in affection when they ask for it.

Consistency is key when managing a pets behaviour

Eating, drinking, sleeping and exercise habits are what you should prioritise keeping consistent. With any environmental change, if a dog is stressed, one of the first things that will change is their appetite. Like when a dog is nervous around someone new and won’t take treats. When a dog moves environments, they might not know where the water bowl is so it’s important to show them where it is and to keep an eye on how much they’re drinking. If a dog is too unsure to drink, you can always add water to their meals to ensure they’re not dehydrated.

When introducing change, make sure you recognise how environment impacts a pet’s behaviour and ensure you take an accommodating approach. Never just assume that the dog will act exactly as they do at home or as their Owner said, and cater the environment to suit and fill their needs. 

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