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.

You’ll be happy to know that cats can form bonds and feel connection with their human carers. Today, we’ll explore your cat’s love language, their signs of affection for you, and how you can return the love.

Firstly, do cats feel affection for humans?

The short answer is yes; cats can feel affection for humans.

The longer answer starts around 10,000 years ago when we first started to domesticate cats, or rather, they began to domesticate us. The early human-feline relationship was based on mutual gain: cats wanted to eat the mice found around human settlements, and we were happy to have free pest control.

However, over the years, cats became more and more domesticated, eventually cohabiting with humans.

One reason people label cats as aloof is that they view feline behaviour through a canine lens. Dogs are—and always have been—social animals who live and hunt in packs, whereas cats are far more independent. So yes, they won’t jump up on you, wagging their tail when you arrive home from work, but they will show their affection more subtly.

This relatively recent shift in focus has been backed by scientific studies. One research paper documented that the attachment style of a cat and its human is similar to that of an infant and its parent. Another study examined social referencing, or looking to others to help regulate our own behaviours. This research suggested that around 80% of cats look to humans for social reference; they look to us for advice.

Animals can’t speak our language, so it isn’t easy to pinpoint precisely what emotions they do and do not feel. However, as any cat parent will confirm, cats can bond with humans and show affection to them. Here’s how they do it.

How do cats show affection?

Trilling or purring

One of the most common ways a cat expresses their love and enjoyment for being in your company is by purring. This gentle, vibrating noise shows that your cat feels safe and comfortable in your company.

Trilling – sometimes called chirping – is another vocalisation that cats use to signify their love for you. If you notice your cat making this high-pitched trilling noise when you’re around, know it’s their way of saying, “I love you.”

Meowing can be a loving way to communicate if you and your kitty are “having a conversation,” but often, a meow is your cat telling you they want something (probably food).

Cat rolls

A cat’s belly is one of its most vulnerable areas, so if they roll over and displays this area to you, it’s a sure sign that you have won their trust and affection. However, note that a belly display doesn’t necessarily mean your cat wants their belly rubbed. This area is a particularly sensitive part of their bodies, so some cats don’t like to be touched there.

Sometimes, cats walk up to you before throwing themselves on the ground and rolling around to expose their belly. This is their way of saying, “I love and trust you and I’d like some attention right now.”

Licks and love bites

Licking is a significant part of a cat’s socialisation. When young, a kitten’s mum uses licking to soothe and clean her babies. As they grow, cats use licking to socialise with one another and show affection, so if they lick you, it indicates that they view you as part of their family.

You might ask, “Why does my cat hug my arm and bite me?” Sometimes, cats will gently nibble you as they groom, which is another common sign of affection. This should not be confused with a bite, though—if a cat bites you during playtime or when you’re fussing them, it probably means they’re feeling overstimulated. If the ears are flattened, it’s a sign of aggression.

Body language

Felines don’t have the vocal capabilities to express their love through language; instead, they use body language to signal their affection. Here are some common ways your cat could be expressing their love:

Cats don’t wag their tails like dogs but they do use these limbs to express emotion. A tail pointed straight up, without bristling, shows that your cat is pleased to see you and would like to connect.

Sometimes, cats intertwine their tails to signify friendship. If they want to transfer this behaviour to humans, they will wrap their tail around part of your body, often the lower legs. This is their way of saying, “You are my friend.”

While shoving your butt in someone’s face might not be a stereotypical way to show your love, it is common in the feline world. So don’t be offended if your cat holds their rear end up to your face; it’s actually a sign of affection.

The look of love

When it comes to cats, the look of love is quite literal. If your cat looks at you with half-closed eyes and a slow blink, it is their direct way of saying, “I love you.”

During a first meeting, cats often stare with large, unblinking eyes or avoid making eye contact at all. So, if you get half-closed eyes or a slow blink, regard it as a huge compliment.

Kneading you or rubbing against you

“Making biscuits” or kneading is a common cat behaviour that signifies affection. It originates from a kitten kneading their mother to stimulate milk production. When kneading, your cat marks you via their scent glands.

As smell is a cat’s primary sense, this behaviour is an important part of socialisation as it helps them recognise other cats within their group. So, if your cat marks you with its scent, consider yourself part of their group. If your cat is fond of making biscuits while sitting on your lap, it shows that it is feeling loved and content.

It’s worth noting that cats sometimes use kneading to self-soothe. So, if you notice your cat is kneading excessively when lying alone or on a blanket, you might want to check if it is displaying any signs of anxiety.

Cats also achieve “marking” behaviour by rubbing themselves against part of your body—often the head or lower legs. When your cat rubs its head against you, it is demonstrating its love and affection.

Additionally, cats will sometimes give you gentle headbutts – a behaviour referred to as bunting – which is another way for them to mark their territory and express how much you mean to them. You may notice this behaviour around other pets as well as humans.

Gift giving

A dead mouse on the doorstep might not be an ideal start to the day, but hunting is a natural behaviour for a cat, and they shouldn’t be punished for engaging in it. If your cat brings you this type of “gift,” they want to show you how much they love you and how much you mean to them.

Indoor cats will opt for slightly less gruesome objects. They’ll most likely bring you one of their toys or “hunting objects” as a present. Be sure to thank them for their kind gesture; they’re trying to do something nice for you.

Subtle signs

While there are a bunch of affectionate displays cats use to tell you that they love you, there are a few more subtle ways that demonstrate your cat’s trust and affection for you:

If your cat wanders around and explores when you’re home, it’s a sign that they feel safe and secure. When a stranger comes into their environment, they can sometimes hide to avoid interaction with the unknown. When your cat feels comfortable enough to go about their daily business with you present, it’s a great sign of trust.

Following you around is another sign of affection. They’re following you because they like being close to you and are curious to see what you get up to. If your cat enjoys your company, talk to them; they may not understand what you are saying, but cats can tell when we are directing our speech to them – often because of our tone. (Some people think we sound silly using “baby voices” when talking to companion animals, but this change in pitch and tone can help them understand that we’re talking to them).

Another sign that your cat cares about you is if they greet you when you arrive home. Sitting at the door as you turn the key is their way of saying, “Welcome home, I’m happy to see you.”

Cats are most vulnerable when sleeping, so if they choose to sleep in your company or on your bed, it’s a sign that they feel safe around you. Curling up to sleep on you is the ultimate sign of bonding and trust between you and your cat.

Give some love to your cat on ‘World Hug your Cat Day’

Now that you have some tools to decipher your cat’s love language, it’s time to return the favour and show them some appreciation. Here are some ideas for showing your cat how much you love them:

• Kitty kisses: when your cat does a slow blink, return the gesture by slowly closing your eyes halfway to say, “I love you too!”
• Be dependable: Cats love routine and reliability, so be there for them and provide a sense of safety in their environment. This routine should involve keeping your cat safe and secure when you’re away.
• Provide a comfortable environment: think cosy blankets, pet beds, scratching poles, cat towers, perches, and spaces to call their own.
• Play games: Cats – especially kittens and young adults – love playing games with their humans. Use wand toys, tunnels and interactive games to enrich their day. Did you know that you can train some cats to play fetch? Try throwing one of their “hunting toys” and see if you can get them to bring it back to you.
• Provide yummy foods: The way to a cat’s heart is through its belly. Providing them with a protein-rich, quality, well-balanced diet will keep them happy and healthy, and they will understand how much you care about them.
• Food enrichment: You can also incorporate puzzles or lick mats to make food time fun. You can even hide cat treats around their play area so that they can “hunt” for their food.
• Groom your cat: If your cat grooms you, return the favour by giving them a gentle brush or a massage. Not all cats enjoy this, but it’s the purrfect pampering treat for some.
• Quality time: Just give your cat time and attention. Even if it’s just Netflix and chill, your cat will still feel loved if the two of you are snuggled up together and they can relax.

Most importantly, experiment with different forms of communication and interaction to see how your cat responds and what they enjoy most. Take some time to get to know your cat, and the two of you will be able to express your affection for one another in no time!

The post How do cats show affection? appeared first on Mad Paws.

For many Australians, fostering provides a unique opportunity to assess whether pet ownership fits into their lives and can involve a range of pets, from cats and dogs, to more exotic birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and a range of other animals that may need homes. Whether you’re testing the waters of pet care or simply aiming to make a difference, fostering can be a deeply rewarding experience.

What is pet fostering?

Pet fostering involves temporarily caring for animals from shelters or rescue organisations until they are adopted. The primary objective of fostering is to provide these animals with care, socialisation, and love, which can significantly increase their chances of being adopted. 

Foster pet parents play a crucial role in the animal’s life by offering a less stressful environment than a shelter, which greatly benefits the animal’s overall well-being.

Fostering is inherently temporary, varying from a few weeks to several months, depending on the pet’s needs and the adoption rates at the shelter. This arrangement not only helps to reduce overcrowding in shelters but also prepares pets for a smoother transition to permanent homes.

The types of animals in need of fostering extend far beyond dogs and cats. Many shelters also seek foster homes for rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and even more exotic pets who await adoption. Each type of animal comes with its own set of care requirements and rewards, making fostering a diverse and enriching experience.

By opening your home temporarily, you’re not just helping an animal in need; you’re also making a profound community impact. To learn more about how you can get involved, check out the RSPCA’s fostering resources or explore further at Mad Paws’ blog on fostering a dog, where you can find additional details and stories to inspire your fostering journey.

Fostering vs. adopting pets: What’s the difference?

When considering bringing a new pet into your life, you might find yourself weighing the options between fostering and adopting. Both paths provide invaluable support to animals in need, but they cater to different lifestyles and levels of commitment.

Key differences 

The primary difference between fostering and adopting lies in the permanency of the arrangement. Fostering is temporary, providing short-term care to animals until they are adopted by a permanent family. Adoption, on the other hand, is a long-term commitment where you provide a forever home to an animal.

Commitment and responsibilities 

Fostering requires a flexible approach to pet care, as you might be caring for different animals for varying periods. The responsibilities can range from basic care, like feeding and exercising, to more involved tasks such as administering medication, training, or socialising the animal to improve its chances of adoption. 

Shelters often provide the necessary supplies and cover medical expenses, making fostering a less financially burdensome commitment.

Adopting a pet demands a long-term emotional and financial commitment, as you become fully responsible for the animal’s health and well-being for the rest of its life. This includes regular veterinary care, nutrition, training, and other pet-related expenses, which can add up over time.

A step towards pet adoption 

For many, fostering serves as a trial period to assess whether they are ready for the full-time responsibilities of pet ownership. It allows potential pet owners to understand the demands of caring for an animal and to gauge how well a new pet might fit into their lifestyle and household. 

Fostering can be particularly helpful as it exposes foster parents to a range of pet behaviours and needs, which can be key in deciding the pet is one that suits your home, lifestyle, and environment, 

Fostering before adopting can lead to a more informed, confident decision when choosing to permanently welcome a pet into your home. For more insights and stories about the impact of fostering and adopting, you can read through heartfelt adoption stories.

Ultimately, whether you choose to foster or adopt, you are providing an invaluable service to the welfare of animals and enriching your life with the joy and love that pets bring.

Benefits of fostering a pet

Fostering a pet comes with a host of advantages that extend beyond the simple joy of having an animal around the house. 

These benefits can be categorised into emotional, practical, and community impacts, each contributing to the profound fulfilment that animal fostering offers.

Emotional benefits 

The emotional rewards of fostering are immense. As a foster carer, you experience the deep satisfaction of helping a pet in need. Many animals in shelters have gone through stressful experiences, and fostering provides them with a loving, stable environment where they can recuperate and thrive. This process can be incredibly heartwarming and enriching.

Also, fostering offers companionship without the long-term commitment of pet ownership, making it a good option for those who love animals but aren’t ready or able to commit permanently.

Practical benefits 

Fostering also serves as an excellent way to assess pet compatibility, especially if you are considering adopting in the future. It allows you to understand what type of pet suits your lifestyle, how much time and effort you can dedicate, and how well a pet can integrate into your family. 

Moreover, it’s an opportunity to learn pet care basics under less permanent conditions. This includes routine care practices like feeding, grooming, training, and administering medications, all supported and often financed by the animal shelter.

Community impact 

On a larger scale, fostering has a significant positive impact on the community. By temporarily housing pets, foster carers help to ease the burden on local shelters and rescue organisations, freeing up resources and space for other needy animals. 

Furthermore, fostering increases a pet’s chances of being adopted by helping it adjust to home environments, improving its social skills, and maintaining its health—all of which make it more attractive to potential adopters.

If you’re inspired to start your journey as a foster pet parent, consider reading more about the process and benefits at Mad Paws’ article on why you should adopt a pet, which also touches upon the transformative power of fostering.

How to become a foster pet parent in Australia

Becoming a foster pet parent in Australia is a rewarding journey that starts with understanding the responsibilities and commitments involved. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started, including what you’ll need to consider and where you can apply to become a foster carer.

1. Research and select an organisation 

The first step is to identify local shelters or rescue organisations that offer fostering programs. Many organisations, including the RSPCA and numerous local rescue groups, actively seek foster carers to help care for animals until they can be permanently re-homed.

2. Understand the requirements

Fostering a pet requires more than just time and love. Potential foster parents need to ensure their home environment is suitable for the specific needs of the pet they wish to foster. This includes having secure, pet-safe areas and, in some cases, being able to accommodate the pet’s medical needs or behavioural training. Additionally, you should consider your daily schedule and lifestyle to ensure you can provide the necessary time and attention your foster pet will need.

3. Complete an application

Once you have chosen an organisation, the next step is to fill out a fostering application. This form will ask about your experience with pets, your home environment, and other details to help the organisation match you with the right pet.

4. Attend training and interviews 

Most organisations require potential foster carers to attend a training session or workshop. These sessions provide valuable information on the basics of pet care, how to handle emergency situations, and specific training related to the care of more vulnerable animals, such as puppies, kittens, or those with health issues. 

You may also be interviewed by the shelter staff to further assess your suitability as a foster carer.

5. Home inspection 

A home inspection might be necessary to ensure your living conditions are safe and appropriate for a foster pet. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have about the practical aspects of fostering.

6. Approval and matching 

Once approved, the organisation will match you with a pet that suits your home environment and lifestyle. The matching process is critical to ensure both you and the pet have the best fostering experience possible.

7. Bringing your foster pet home 

With all steps completed, you’re ready to bring your foster pet home. The fostering organisation will typically provide you with all the necessary supplies, such as food, bedding, toys, and medication if required.

8. Ongoing support 

After you have started fostering, the organisation usually provides ongoing support to help you throughout your fostering journey. This includes access to veterinary care and advice on behavioural issues.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards becoming a foster pet parent, visit the RSPCA Australia fostering page to learn more about the opportunities available and to apply. Alternatively, local shelters such as Pet Rescue provide detailed guides and applications to help you get started.

Fostering a pet can be one of the most fulfilling experiences, offering a vital service to animals in need while enriching your own life with the joys of pet companionship.

To start your journey as a foster pet parent, consider reading more about the process and benefits at Mad Paws’ article on why you should adopt a pet, which also touches upon the transformative power of fostering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about pet fostering in Australia

What is the cost of fostering a pet? 

Fostering a pet typically involves minimal costs for the foster parent. Most animal shelters and rescue organisations cover the major expenses related to the pet’s care, including veterinary bills, medications, and sometimes even food and supplies. 

Nevertheless, foster carers are generally only responsible for providing a safe, nurturing environment and covering daily costs like food if not provided. Remember, fostering an animal is an act of love and these daily costs can pile up. So only foster animals that fit comfortably within your budget to care for.

What happens if I want to adopt my foster pet? 

Many foster carers fall in love with their foster pet and decide to adopt them permanently. This process is often referred to as a “foster fail,” but it’s seen as a positive outcome. If you wish to adopt your foster pet, you’ll need to communicate your intentions to the organisation you’re fostering through, and they’ll guide you through the adoption process.

How long does the fostering period typically last? 

The duration of the fostering period can vary widely depending on the specific needs of the pet and the organisation’s policies. It could be as short as a few weeks or as long as several months. The fostering period also depends on factors like the pet’s health, age, and how quickly a suitable forever home is found.

Do you get paid to foster a pet? 

Fostering is a volunteer activity, and as such, foster carers do not receive monetary compensation. However, most organisations cover all veterinary expenses and, in many cases, also provide food and necessary supplies.

Can you foster a pet if you have anxiety? 

Yes, you can foster a pet even if you have anxiety. In fact, many people find that fostering pets has therapeutic benefits, as pets can provide companionship, reduce stress, and increase overall emotional well-being. It’s important to assess your own capacity and choose a pet whose needs are manageable for you.

Can you foster to adopt a pet in Australia? 

Yes, in Australia, the “foster to adopt” scheme is quite popular among rescue organisations. This process allows potential adopters to bring a pet into their home on a trial basis to ensure that the pet is a good fit for their household before making the adoption permanent.

How do you deal with guilt for surrendering a pet? 

Surrendering a pet can be a difficult decision, but it’s important to recognise when it’s in the best interest of the pet. To cope with feelings of guilt, it’s beneficial to ensure that you’re surrendering to a reputable organisation that will take good care of the animal and work to find it a suitable home. 

Communicating openly with the shelter about the reasons for surrender can help them better accommodate the pet. Seeking support from pet support groups or counselling can also be helpful in managing these feelings.

Discover how pet fostering is rewarding for you and them

Fostering a pet offers a unique blend of rewards and challenges. As a foster carer, you provide a crucial bridge to a better life for animals in need, helping to prepare them for adoption into loving homes. The experience brings immense emotional rewards through companionship and the joy of making a significant difference in an animal’s life. 

However, it also requires commitment, flexibility, and patience as you work with pets who may have special needs or require extra care and training.

If you’re looking for a fulfilling way to contribute to animal welfare, consider becoming a foster pet parent. It’s an enriching experience that not only benefits the animals but also provides personal satisfaction and growth.

The post What it means to foster a pet appeared first on Mad Paws.

In this article, we’ll share the common signs to look for that may indicate heatstroke in pets. And, 10 factors to consider when caring for your pet in hot weather, and how to keep them cool and comfortable.

Identifying heatstroke in pets

Heatstroke in pets is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when an animal’s body temperature rises to a dangerous level. Signs of heatstroke in pets can vary and can look very different each time. One symptom doesn’t always guarantee heatstroke, however, if a pet is experiencing two or more of the below symptoms or you’re concerned, always seek veterinary care and take immediate action to begin cooling them.

Common signs of heatstroke in pets include:

• Excessive panting: Dogs and cats regulate their body temperature through panting. If they’re panting excessively and unable to cool down, it may be a sign of heatstroke.

• Excessive drooling: Increased drooling can be a sign that a pet is struggling to cool down and is dehydrated.

• Rapid heartbeat and breathing: An elevated heart rate and rapid breathing are signs that the body is under stress.

• Bright red gums and tongue: This indicates increased blood flow to these areas as the body attempts to cool itself.

• Staggering or weakness: Pets may exhibit signs of weakness, confusion, or even collapse if they are experiencing heatstroke.

• Vomiting or diarrhea: Heatstroke can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea.

• Seizures: In severe cases, heatstroke can cause seizures.

• Unresponsiveness or coma: If the heatstroke is not addressed promptly, it can lead to loss of consciousness and even coma.

It’s important to note that certain pets – such as brachycephalic breeds (e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs), older animals, and those with pre-existing health conditions – are more susceptible to heatstroke. As each pet has their tolerance, they will also have different techniques to manage them so it’s important to understand the pet’s limits and use appropriate management techniques. 

Because pets are physically smaller than humans, their heat tolerance is already much lower than ours so it’s never safe to base their tolerance on how you’re feeling.  

How to keep pets cool in hot weather

To help determine how much you need to manage the pet, figure out their baseline. For example, If it’s 25 degrees and they’re resting on the couch but already panting to keep cool they’re not going to cope with the heat. However, some pets are highly strung and won’t slow down even if they’re hot or not feeling well so it’s important to set boundaries in the heat regardless of the pet’s mood.

Running aircon 24/7 and keeping pets inside isn’t realistic so read on to find out which management techniques will work for you.

1. Ensure there’s airflow 

Make sure your pet is never stuck somewhere without airflow so the room doesn’t heat up and get too hot. Leaving windows open, having fans on, and having aircon on is the easiest way to do so. For example, never leave a pet in the car, especially on hot days as a still car will get practically no airflow and can cause heatstroke in as little as minutes. It doesn’t matter if you keep the windows open or closed either, it’s about the lack of airflow that is dangerous for them.

2. Access to water supply

Always ensure your pet has access to a minimum of 2 water bowls at all times. If you have more than one pet, you need to allow for more water bowls so they each have the adequate amount. Ensure to leave all water in the shade, and check and refresh it every 2-3 hours. It’s also important to monitor how much each dog drinks – sometimes they may not drink as much as they should. You can entice them by placing food at the bottom of the water bowl or adding water to their meals.  

Another point here is that you need to make sure it’s safe drinking water. On hot days, they’re more likely to drink from ponds etc. So if a water source like a chlorine pool or murky pond is in the vicinity, make sure it’s blocked off.

3. Limit their exercise

Exercise will increase your pet’s body temperature, regardless of the weather, so limiting their exercise can help keep their body temperature at a safe level. As well as maintaining temperature, dogs specifically are at higher risk of burns from hot pavement if walked when it’s too hot. To tell if the pavement is too hot, if you can’t hold the palm or back of your hand on it for more than 7 seconds it’s too hot.

Any temperature above 25 degrees is when you need to consider limiting exercise. For elderly or compromised dogs, no exercise is ideal. For healthier younger dogs, a short walk in the cooler parts of the day and plenty of breaks from playing with other dogs is sufficient. Any temperature above 30 degrees all dogs should avoid exercise or rough play to minimise risk.

4. Provide shade and shelter

Always make sure that there’s some form of shade and shelter that the pet has access to. If you know that the only tree in your yard provides shade from 10am-1pm, for example, they will be exposed to the elements for hours. So in this case, you could set up a tarp, a roof or another shade provider to help give them somewhere to retreat to. Ideally, the shelter available should be shaded 24/7 so it stays as cool as possible. 

5. Limit their sun baking

Plenty of pets – especially cats and dogs – love to lay out in the sun and sun bake! But this needs to be monitored and stopped for 2 main reasons. Firstly, it can lead to heatstroke because pets don’t know they’re over-heating and won’t always move themselves out of the sun. Secondly, similar to humans it increases the risk of skin cancer significantly.

While you don’t need to deny them of any bit of time in the sun,  it’s advised to set a timer for 3-5 minutes and then bring them into the shade. If you’re leaving pets unattended, ensure to move beds out of the sun to avoid accidental or excess sun baking.

6. Consider a cooling mat

Cooling mats and pads are a great (waterless) way to help pets cool down. If they’re not inclined to use them or dislike them you can try placing them on their bed or under a towel. The great thing is you can get variations of these cooling mats for pets – some don’t need to be frozen or have a water source, which makes them easy to maintain. In terms of placement, they’re best laying under the pet so it helps cool their core and vital organs. 

7. Keep up their grooming

The importance of grooming varies greatly on the breed and coat. Some dogs, like poodle mixes, are best shaved right down in Summer to help keep them cool…whereas other breeds like Border Collies are best left ungroomed as their coat can aid heat regulation and if shaved they can be compromised. 

8. Frozen (or cold) treats

Make small frozen treats to help them feel cool and stay hydrated. Pup-sicles are a simple treat as well – you can freeze fruit and water, water and peanut butter or bone broth. Lickimats are also great for spreading their favourite treat on the mat and popping it in the freezer, offering a longer lasting treat for them to digest slowly. It’s important to remember not to give them too much either, as a drastic difference in internal to external temperature can lead to complications (can constrict blood vessels and inhibit cooling). 

9. Invite them to enjoy water play

Splashing about is a summertime favourite for plenty of dogs, letting them swim, providing a shallow kiddy pool or wetting them with the hose is a great way to keep them cool. When pets are around water, just ensure they’re supervised and not over-exerting themselves. There’s always a small chance of secondary drowning which can happen when they’re swallowing too much water so it’s important to keep an eye on them while playing.

10. Breed specific care

Breed is a great indicator of a dog’s heat tolerance because it provides general assumptions on size, health status etc. For example, brachycephalic or flat-faced dogs are much more at risk in the heat due to their breathing issues. Whatever the breed, it’s important to learn what they can and can’t tolerate so you can care for them accordingly. 

Did you know…

Mad Paws Pet Sitters have the know-how to care for your four-legged friend all conditions, and in particular the warmer weather. So if you’re going away, or need someone to look after your pet, you can be assured that all the above ways to prevent heatstroke and to keep them cool and comfortable will be provided!

Search for a Pet Sitter near you >

The post Signs of heatstroke in pets & how to prevent it appeared first on Mad Paws.

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.

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.

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

The post 10 stress triggers for cats, and how to help control their anxiety appeared first on Mad Paws.

The more educated we are on pets and what impacts their overall health & well-being, the better care we can take of them. Read on for 10 things that you might not know are risky for dogs and why you should stop them!

#1 Sunbaking

Just like humans, dogs are at risk of skin cancer. Unnecessary or excess amounts of sun exposure increase their risk. Doggy sunscreen exists and is great to put on your dog’s nose/snout area to reduce the risk of sunburn and unhealthy sun exposure. 

Dogs regulate their temperature differently than humans and have different sweat glands, which are much less effective at cooling them down. They have two types of sweat glands and the ones in their paws are the most effective for cooling but not enough to properly regulate their temperature when exposed to extreme heat. 

As well as not having the ability to keep themselves cool, dogs don’t understand that lying in the sun and getting too hot is dangerous. This means they won’t always move out of the sun before overheating. Overheating is the biggest risk of sun baking for dogs, especially flat-faced breeds who have breathing problems. Overheating can also cause death in dogs – each dog will have a different threshold based on size, health etc but once heatstroke sets in, irreparable damage can occur. In severe cases, it can cause seizures, brain damage, organ failure, and death. 

How do you know how to spot and treat heat stroke in dogs? Excess panting, hot to touch, red gums, lethargy, excess drooling, loss of coordination, and seizures. If you’re concerned a dog is overheating, ensure you get them out of the heat as quickly as possible! Take them inside to a cool place, slowly cooling their body back down with cool wet towels and small amounts of water. If you’re unsure or concerned, take them straight to the vet. 

#2 Playing with the hose

A very common summer game with dogs is chasing the hose. However, this can be extremely dangerous for dogs as it can cause secondary drowning. Secondary drowning can occur from minutes to days after the event. It occurs because the dog inhales water which goes into the lungs and inhibits their ability to breathe. This can also happen if a dog swims too much or swims to the point of exhaustion and accidentally inhales too much water. The likelihood of inhaling water is increased by the energy of the activity. Jumping and running around means the dog is likely panting with a wide open mouth. 

A great alternative is to have a small kiddy or shell pool filled with a few centimetres of water to avoid inhaling water or drawing. Dogs should never be left swimming or near water unsupervised. The time that it takes for exhaustion to kick in and cause them to drown can be minutes. Giving your dog a good soak with the hose is also a great option if you don’t have space. 

#3 Walking with only a collar 

This is a good rule of thumb, but not as important for all types of breeds and ages. The two main risks from walking only on a collar (and not a harness) are choking or damage and the risk of slipping out. 

If a dog is pulling whilst walking with a collar on, it can cause whiplash as well as issues to their oesophagus, trachea, lymph nodes, and thyroid gland, and worsen symptoms for brachycephalic dogs. It’s unlikely the damage of one walk will cause severe issues but consistent damage on daily walks can cause serious issues like tracheal collapse, breathing issues, and swallowing problems. These risks are only when a dog is pulling on the collar, not from wearing a collar with no tension on it. 

Secondly, slipping out of collars is very common. Often even if a collar is fitted properly, a dog’s head and throat can be the same size which means if they pull hard enough they can slip out. Even the best-behaved dogs have this risk – if they get scared or decide to chase after a bush turkey they could slip out and run across the road or run off.

Take a read of this article from our friends at Pet Chemist to get the lowdown on dog walking essentials & accessories.

#4 Destroying toys unsupervised

The risk of leaving dogs unsupervised with toys is that they will consume part of the toy. They don’t always intentionally swallow part of the toy, but intentional or not it poses a risk for choking or an intestinal blockage or damage.

Big parts of the toy like eyes, squeakers or balls of fluff can easily get caught in a dog’s throat and cause them to choke. If a dog manages to swallow any of the parts, it can cause a blockage which can lead to death. An intestinal blockage in dogs can cause vomiting, their stomach to twist and other serious complications. The other risk is a rupture or damage to their insides. For example, a squeaker could scrape or rip their stomach lining which can lead to death, especially if left untreated. 

If you suspect a dog has swallowed a component or a whole toy visit a vet immediately. They will be able to determine if and what the pet has swallowed and take appropriate measures.

#5 Eating poop

Why do dogs eat their own poop? A question for the ages!

A gross but common behaviour for dogs is eating poop! Whether it’s their own, a random one on a walk or the possum poo in the yard, they’ve all done it at one point. This risks them ingesting parasites and germs they wouldn’t have otherwise been exposed to. 

If a dog is consistently eating poop it can be a sign of stress, hunger, fear or just because they like to do it. It’s best to consult a vet if the behaviour is consistent.

#6 Chasing wildlife

Chasing wildlife is a double-edged sword, posing risks for the dog and the wildlife. As dog guardians, it’s your responsibility to ensure the dog doesn’t put wildlife at risk. If a dog gets hold of a possum, a bird or another small animal it’s often going to result in the death of that animal. 

As well as the immense risk to the wildlife, it risks injury to the dog from scratches, bites and germs. If a dog gets into a tussle with a possum, bird or similar their desperate scratch attempts or claws can cause deep wounds prone to infection, damage or loss of eye and more.

The habit of chasing wildlife also increases the likelihood of risky behaviours like running across the road or jumping fences and escaping. 

#7 Jumping off furniture

It’s no question that we all love a snuggle on the couch or bed with the pups but letting them jump up and down onto or off furniture can be very dangerous. For breeds prone to issues – Dachshunds and back injuries, golden retrievers and hip dysplasia, dogs with previous injuries like a luxating patella (knee dislocation), or older dogs with or prone to arthritis – it’s crucial to minimise impact to their bones and joints. 

Jumping on and off furniture can be a daily occurrence so the damage builds over time. For higher-risk breeds, even one jump can cause serious injury. The damage occurs through the shock of the jump where the joints and muscles bear the impact. The bigger the difference in the ratio of size to pet and size to jump the more dangerous it is. Ie; jumping off a couch is much more dangerous for Dachshunds than a Great Dane. 

To minimise the risk you can introduce pet steps into your house and teach the dogs how to use them.

#8 Chewing on sticks

Chewing on sticks poses 4 main risks:

• Splintering in the mouth and causing infection or irritation 
• Breaking and lodging in areas like the roof of the mouth 
• Breaking and causing choking 
• Being swallowed and causing damage 

The chewing will inevitably cause the stick to break and splinter so the risk is not easily mitigated. The best way to prevent these risks is to not let dogs chew sticks. Give them something pet-friendly that’s intended for their teeth!

#9 Over-exercising

Over-exercising is hard to set parameters for when it comes to dogs. A Border Collie is going to have a vastly different threshold to a French Bulldog, for example. Not a common issue, but are you exercising your dog too much? Over-exercising can often lead to overheating. Over-exercising can also lead to muscle fatigue, dehydration, and joint issues. 

It’s pretty manageable to set limitations on exercise for pets, as long as they’re not running 8+ hours a day they’re not risking fatal limits. It’s important to understand the exercise needs of the individual dog and cater to this. Sometimes a 20-minute walk is enough and sometimes a 10km run isn’t enough!

#10 Eating grass or random items

Eating grass is not harmful to dogs on its own. However, eating grass out on walks means the dog could be ingesting pesticides, baiting, food scraps, and bees. Unless you know that there are no chemicals or uncertain foods in the grass it’s important to stop the dog from eating it. 

The same logic applies to random items out in public. There are all kinds of scraps around. Unfortunately, people leave bait and traps for dogs that contain poison and can quickly become fatal so it’s crucial to avoid the dog picking up high-risk bait scraps like raw meat, dog food etc. Similarly, scraps on the ground can be harmful – it could be a piece of chocolate or other toxic substances that a toddler unknowingly dropped.

The post 10 risky behaviours to stop dogs doing appeared first on Mad Paws.

The suggested contents below are an extensive list of contents for a pet first aid kit that caters to most scenarios. To help, we’ve put together a guide for both an at-home kit and an on-the-go kit for when you’re travelling.

Building the right kit for your pet is important – prioritising what you’ll need (or not need) is up to you, so you’re not carrying around anything unnecessary.

What to include in a pet first aid kit

To help you determine what suits your needs and services, keep reading to see examples of how to use each item. Knowing your pet’s overall health status, and the common risks of the areas you’re in, will help you determine what you need. 

The on-the-go pet first aid kit:

Bandages:

• Secure wound dressings 
• Compression bandaging 
• Control bleeding

Vet Wrap: a self-adhesive bandage with no sticky residue, ideal for pets to allow secure bandaging without shaving fur. 

• Secure wound dressings 
• Compression bandaging 

Tick Remover: a tool to help remove ticks safely and whole. This ensures the head is removed, reducing further damage and infection risk. Removing the tick whole allows you to identify the type of tick and respond accordingly. 

Anti-bacterial (spray, ointment etc.): 

• Prevent infection to cuts, wounds and other injuries 
• Protect open skin until you can provide a proper clean 

Tweezers: 

• Remove thorns, splinters etc 

Spare Lead:

• In case the lead breaks / is chewed through 
• To secure an off-lead dog 
• Use as a pulley system to manage a dog displaying aggression 

Muzzle: In case an injured pet displays aggressive behaviour, it can keep you and the pet safe. 

Gloves: Allows you to treat and or clean open wounds without increasing the risk of infection. 

Saline: Small vials of saline make it easy to clean things with minimal effort. 

• Flush/clean a cut, wound or spot 
• Flush out eyes 

Eye Drops / Eye Ointment:

• Lubricate the eye 
• Remove dust, insects, dirt etc from the eye more easily 

Wound Gel: different to regular anti-bacterial, it can act as a liquid bandage barrier. Applying wound gel not only prevents infection but also protects the open wound from anything else entering such as bacteria, dirt etc. It’s especially useful for wriggly pets or hard-to-bandage areas. 

Instant Ice Pack: This can be a lifesaver when a pet is overheating, gliding the ice pack under the belly and underarms and cooling their organs can make all the difference. 

Anti-histamine Spray: This can be useful to stop scratching or biting at allergy-related inflammation until further treatment can be provided. 

Salt Sachet: Instant leech removal, whilst not toxic leeches can create open wounds and infections. It’s best to let them naturally fall off but if you need to remove them quickly, pouring salt on them will do the trick. 

Pet-safe Sunscreen: Pets get sunburnt too, especially pale pets with white/pink noses. Applying SPF is important to prevent skin cancer. 

Collection Bag: In the case you find a tick, insect or other foreign body on the pet you need/want to investigate further it’s good to have a clean secure place to put it. 

Tick Identification Card: It’s best to know ASAP which type of tick you find on a pet to know how urgent medical treatment is and what symptoms to expect. 

Snake/Spider Identification Card: It’s best to know ASAP which type of spider or snake you find on a pet to know how urgent medical treatment is and what symptoms to expect.

Top tip: We recommend taking a screenshot of the below ID cards and keeping these on your phone, or printing them out and having them in your pet first aid kit. You can also download them here. 

The in-the-home pet first aid kit:

In addition to the on-the-go list above, the below items may also come in handy when you need to treat your pet:

Pro-kolin: a generic pro-biotic for cats & dogs that can be useful for upset stomachs due to food changes, stress etc. 

Ear Cleaner: can be useful if dogs are swimming or playing in the yard and their ears need a re-fresh. Super useful if you’re caring for dogs prone to ear infections as a preventative measure. 

Tick Collar: a preventative measure if you’re in a tick-prone area or don’t know if the pets have had prevention. 

Oatmeal Shampoo & Conditioner: a great tool to soothe skin caused by anything. Stress, allergy, food, or other related skin irritations can be soothed by an oatmeal bath for most pets. 

Pee Pads: to help with toilet training, to provide sterile areas, to protect carpet or furniture. 

Styptic Powder / Gel: designed to clot nail bleeding if a pet breaks a nail or you clip it too far this will stop the bleeding. 

Nail Clippers: in case a pet breaks a nail and you need to clean it up or in the rare case a pet needs their nails clipped. 

Eye Ointment: can help settle conjunctivitis or slow the spread it it. Also useful for other eye irritations such as allergies, scratching etc. 

UTI relief: pet UTIs are hard to diagnose without a vet but if they’re an ongoing problem for any of the pets in your care having relief on hand is great to curb symptoms.  

Why do I need a pet first aid kit?

You’re may not always be in a position to take a pet to the vet immediately. You could be on a bush walk 2 hours away from a vet and the dog has a paralysis tick… or the dog could break their nail playing in the yard and some styptic power and antibacterial could save a $100+ vet visit.

There’s no doubt you care about your pet/s, but often proactive care can be an afterthought. Turn what would be, “I wish I had this”, or “I wish I had done that” into “Thank goodness I was prepared.”

Providing immediate care at the time of the injury can save a lot of extra trouble. Treating a cut immediately will reduce the risk of later infection significantly, in theory, it could stop an infection altogether – meaning no vet visit or antibiotics.

It’s important to note, however, that having a pet first aid kit shouldn’t replace going to the vet. And you should never provide medical assistance that you’re uncomfortable doing or that should only be done by a trained professional. 

The post How to build a Pet First Aid Kit appeared first on Mad Paws.

Spring is the time of growth, flowering and new sprouts for plants and flowers which causes the increased pollen count.

In this article, we explore the various allergens that pets can be exposed to, and how you can help your furry bestie during these peak periods.

What type of allergy does your pet have?

This time of year brings lots of pollen, and it’s spread all around so it’s hard to avoid. It’s a tiny grain that gets carried by bees, wind, insects, and animals. Its extensive presence and size means it gets into every nook and cranny just like dust can. This means it’s constantly being inhaled, landing in eyes, ears and on the skin which is why it can easily cause irritation.

But, pollen is not the only culprit to cause allergies. Individual plants or flowers can cause allergies similar to how you can have individual food allergies. Specific allergies can be harder to determine, especially in pets as they often spend much more time outdoors than humans.

As well as the plant boom, Spring brings a boom of ticks, mites, and fleas which are irritating to all skin but a common allergy in pets too Take this as a reminder to administer their parasite control treatment – shop your favourite brand at Mad Paws Pet Store.

Allergy symptoms in pets are similar to those in humans. The severity of the allergy will determine the severity of the symptoms. 

How to manage allergies in pets:

Luckily allergy treatment can often be managed by using only topical medication or preventative measures. Understanding the root cause isn’t always possible or necessary. Generic pollen allergies are common and unless common treatments don’t work, there isn’t a need to know what specific plant causes the issue. Topical soothing methods like regular oatmeal baths, irritation or steroid creams, or building tolerance to local pollens might be enough to combat allergy symptoms completely. 

Honey builds tolerance

Honey is a simple way to build up tolerance to pollens. While there isn’t as much evidence as there is for antihistamines and other medical treatments, it’s a much less expensive, invasive and time-consuming treatment to try.

How it works: Local honey is full of local pollens, and by ingesting small amounts regularly should in theory help build a tolerance. If a tolerance is built, theoretically it should mean fewer symptoms. Similar to introducing anything new into a pet’s diet, it should be introduced slowly, in small quantities and monitored for any signs of allergy or irritation. 

Avoid high pollen exposure

Avoidance is another simple way to manage allergies. This could be as simple as changing your walking route, giving your cat or dog less outdoor freedom on high pollen count days, providing boots to protect paws, or removing irritating pollen plants from the yard. 

When to consult a Vet about allergies in my pet?

If symptoms escalate to open sores, hot spots, hives, swelling or can’t be managed easily, it’s crucial to consult a vet and take further action. It’s important to maintain realistic expectations that treatments aren’t an instant fix and sometimes can take days or a week to take full effect and work completely. Just like humans, an occasional sneeze or itch is normal – it’s only when symptoms are persistent that action is required.

Skin care and treatments for dogs

As they say, you are what you eat. One of the most effective solutions for superior skin care is your dog’s food intake. Take, for example, Lyka’s Kangaroo and Turkey fresh dog food recipes – both are highly digestible and hypoallergenic. A great choice for gastrointestinal health. Lyka also have skin supplements that are full of probiotics, vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system, aiding a long-term defence against skin irritations!

From shampoos to sprays and everything in between, looking after your dog’s skin is manageable with the various products that can help. Check out the Dog Skin Care range on Mad Paws Pet Store. Including dog sunscreen wipes, so your dog has some coverage from UV rays too – how handy!

Parasite control is important all year round, but especially in the warmer months. It’s vital that you stay on top of your Dog flea, tick & worm treatments to ensure they’re protected against any nasties that can latch onto their skin and sometimes be deadly!

Skin care and treatments for cats

If your cat struggles with having any topical treatments administered, don’t worry! With the wide variety of options available for Cat Skin Care, there’s sure to be a solution that suits them best.

And when it comes to Cat flea, tick & worm treatments, the spot-on treatments are so easy to administer. And remember, even if your cat stays indoors most of the time doesn’t mean they’re immune from parasites. 

Did you know: 

Mad Paws Pet Sitters can assist with managing your pets allergies. It’s just one of the benefits of choosing the personalised care of a Sitter. Find your pet’s perfect match and witness the difference for yourself!

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The post How to help manage allergies in pets appeared first on Mad Paws.