Tails on Trails - dog walking and pet care

07/01/2025

New recruit Evie reporting for her first Tongue Out Tuesday mission!

She nailed the 'walk, sniff, and smile' but got extra points for the tongue pose. Clearly, she’s a natural at this game!

Welcome to the pack, Evie — you’ve already mastered the art of looking fabulous on the go!

06/01/2025

2025: NEW YEAR, NEW ME.

As we kick off 2025, I couldn’t resist asking some of my clients—and even my 4-year-old son—about their New Year resolutions.

Their answers? Equal parts ambitious, adorable, and downright funny.

Here’s what they had to say:

⚽️ Pinto: Bark Less… Unless You Take Too Long
Pinto has decided to work on her barking this year—but there’s a catch.
“I’ll bark less… unless you take too long to throw the ball. In that case, all bets are off,” she declared.
Her family reports that her countdown timer for fetch is approximately three seconds before she lets you know her patience is up.

💥 Milo: Keep a Bed Intact for a Week
Milo, the little bundle of energy, is setting the bar high this year.
"My New Year resolution? To keep my bed intact for at least a week!” he barked confidently.
Given his track record of tearing through beds like they owe him money, his humans are skeptical—but we’re rooting for him! Karinda Heijns

🐈 Mr. Penny: Stop Blaming the Cat
Mr. Penny has resolved to stop blaming the family cat for his mischievous deeds.
“Yes, I ate the dolls. And yes, I "reorganised" my sister bedroom... But the cat was definitely involved… emotionally, at least,” he barked.
Here’s to more accountability in 2025, Mr. Penny! Anna Dawn Fritz

🛋 Django Quits Couch Potato Life
Django, the reigning nap king, has promised to add a bit of adventure to his routine.
“This year, I’m getting off the couch at least twice a week to fetch a ball—or at least think about it.”
While his enthusiasm is inspiring, his human confirms the couch is still his true kingdom.

🏰 Oliver: Build the Best Pillow Fort
When I asked my 4-year-old son Oliver about his New Year resolution, he didn’t hesitate.
“This year, I’m going to build the best pillow fort ever—and then maybe let the dogs visit if they promise not to knock it down!”
Ambitious and inclusive—a resolution I can fully support.

Resolutions, whether from pets or humans, are all about growth—and a little humor.

Can Milo resist bed destruction? Will Oliver’s fort become a reality? Only time will tell.

What resolutions do your pets—or kids—have for 2025? Share them—I’d love to hear! ❤️

30/12/2024

🎆 Fireworks tomorrow night! 🎆

While we’re cheering, our dogs might be thinking the sky is exploding.
Check out our old post for tips on keeping your furry friends calm and convinced the world isn’t ending!

WHEN THE SKY BOOMS AND THE DOGS ZOOM ⚡️

Loud noises can turn our calm canines into hyper hounds, turning even the most serene night into a chaotic comedy show. As a pet sitter, I’ve witnessed the spectrum of doggy reactions to loud sounds—from the frantic to the unfazed, and everything in between.

Saturday night, during the Pine River show, I was pet sitting Lexie, a dog who could give kangaroos a run for their money with her jumps. As soon as the fireworks started, Lexie transformed into a hyperactive jumping bean, bouncing around the house and barking as if she was leading the world's noisiest parade. It was like having a furry firework show indoors!

Then there's dogs like my dog Franklin. He's the canine equivalent of a Zen master. Thunderstorms, fireworks, you name it—Franklin can sleep through it all.

And then there's anxious pups, like my sweet Ella. When the sky starts booming, Ella shakes like a maraca in a mariachi band. Hours after the fireworks have fizzled out, Ella is still trembling, like a tiny, furry earthquake. If there were medals for post-noise jitters, Ella would have gold.

If your dog reacts to loud noises like Lexie, Franklin, or Ella, here are some tips to help them keep their cool:

🛋 Create a safe space. Set up a quiet, comfy zone where your dog can retreat. Think of it as their own personal panic room, minus the melodrama.

📻 Desensitization training. Gradually introduce your dog to recordings of scary sounds at low volumes. Reward their bravery and crank up the volume slowly. Think of it as noise boot camp!

🧘‍♀️ Stay calm. Your dog takes cues from you. So channel your inner Franklin and stay calm. Your pooch will thank you for it.

💊 Use calming aids. From anxiety wraps to calming supplements, there’s a whole arsenal of doggie chill-pills out there. Explore and find what works best for your furry friend.

📺 Background noise. Drown out the scary sounds with some soothing tunes or a movie marathon. A little distraction can go a long way.

👨 Consult your vet. For the truly terrified pups, a vet’s advice might be necessary. They can suggest medication or other treatments to help ease your dog’s anxiety.

❤️ Stay close. Sometimes, all your dog needs is your presence. Sit with them, pet them gently, and whisper sweet nothings. It’s amazing how much comfort your company can bring.

Every dog reacts differently to loud noises. Whether it’s Lexie’s firework frenzy, Franklin’s chill slumber, or Ella’s nervous shakes, understanding your dog’s unique needs can help you turn the chaos into calm. With a little patience, a lot of love, and maybe a few laughs, we can help our furry friends navigate the noisy world with a wagging tail and a smile.

Do you have any tricks that have worked wonders for your pup during loud events? Or perhaps a funny or heartwarming story to share? Let me know in the comments!

28/12/2024

MEET SADIE

Sadie, the dog with a personality as loud as her enthusiasm!

If you think dogs are all about wagging tails and gentle greetings, you’ve never met Sadie. The second I arrive to pick her up, it’s a full-on greeting with her loud, owl-like call.
I wouldn’t call it “adorable” – more like a very enthusiastic announcement that she's ready for the adventure of a lifetime. 📣

And once we're in the car? Buckle up, because Sadie doesn’t stop "talking" the entire drive. I'm not sure if she's giving me a detailed breakdown of her day or just making sure I know she’s absolutely ready for whatever we’re about to do.
She’s like a co-pilot who’s a little too excited to hold back her thoughts.

But it’s all worth it because we’re heading to her favourite place: the park. Or, as Sadie likes to call it, the adventure zone.
Sure, it’s a quiet park, but not when Sadie’s around!
For her, any movement is a potential chase.
Bikes? She’s on it. Balls? Her eyes are locked in. And the postman’s feet? Well, that's a story for another day. 😆

It’s safe to say, with Sadie around, there’s never a dull moment — whether it’s a quiet park or a very fast postman!

27/12/2024

RAINY DAYS ARE COMING... AND SO ARE CANE TOADS! 🐸 🌧️

With rain predicted from tomorrow, I thought it was the perfect time to share a blog about those bumpy backyard invaders—cane toads! These slimy critters love wet weather and are a real hazard for our dogs. 🐕💦

If your dog has a "passion" for all things weird and wonderful (like Lexie, who could probably win a medal for her cane toad obsession), here’s what you need to know:

✅ Toad-Proof Your Yard: Fine mesh fences? Check. No hidden toad lounges? Double check.

✅ Patrol for Toads: You may not have to put on a cape, but consider yourself the protector of the yard.

✅ Know What to Do: If your pup takes a lick at a toad (and not in a good way), here’s how to help them out quickly.

I’ve shared all my toad-busting tips and very serious advice on how to deal with these bumpy backyard invaders on my website. Trust me, it’s better than Googling “How to stop dog from eating toxic toads.” 😬

Now, I want to hear from you!
Have you ever had a run-in with a cane toad? Do you have a funny story, a brilliant trick, or a cautionary tale to share?
Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear how you’re managing the toad takeover this rainy season!

For more tips and advice, check out my full blog post here: https://tailsontrailspetcare.com/blog/

🐾 Let’s keep our pups safe and our yards toad-free, one rainy day at a time!

26/12/2024

It’s Boxing Day, and your pet is passed out like they cooked the roast, wrapped the gifts, and dealt with all the awkward family conversations.

Heroes, truly. 🦸‍♂️

How’s your pet recovering today?
Share a photo of their post-Christmas nap! 💤📸

25/12/2024

When you were hoping for socks but got a snoot instead! 🎁

Wishing you a holiday season filled with wagging tails, slobbery kisses, wrapping paper chaos, and gifts you didn’t expect (like fur in your mascarpone)! 🐾

MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄

23/12/2024

Big congratulations to Lexie's humans on their engagement!
💍🥂🎊

Lexie has already crowned herself Maid of Honour, and she’s taking her duties very seriously. 😆

She's fully prepared to steal the spotlight, crash the dance floor, and maybe even give a speech - "I do... want the cake".

04/12/2024

Hello, December! 🎄

Bliss is here to remind you — it’s time to deck the halls and book those dog walks and home visits before they’re all gone! 👋

At Tails on Trails, we’re hanging up the last few spots for December, so don’t wait too long to secure your pet’s place on the nice list. ☎️

P.S. Pet sitting? Sorry, folks — fully booked until March!
Turns out word spread that I’m basically the Mary Poppins of pets (minus the flying umbrella, but still magical). 🪄 ✨️

22/11/2024

https://tailsontrailspetcare.com/blog/

Ever wonder what to do if you find a baby bird in need?
Charles, the baby crow taught me so much during his short but sweet time with us. Check out my latest blog for tips, stories, and what I learned about baby bird rescue!

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19/11/2024

Do you think the rain tastes like chicken? Asking for a friend.

15/11/2024

WEEKEND PLANS: The Ferny Grove Rail Trail

Looking for a chill weekend walk that won’t leave you gasping for air?
The Ferny Grove Rail Trail is your go-to for a laid-back, dog-friendly adventure.
No crowds, no stress — just you, your dog, and nature.

Why you'll love it:

🐕‍🦺 A lazy stroll: This 1.8 km trail is more about soaking in the views than breaking a sweat. Perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace (while your dog drags you along sniffing every bush).

🐕 Dogs in charge: Let your dog be the explorer. They’ll sniff, dig, and probably try to roll in something gross, while you’re just there for moral support — and the treats.

🦘 Kangaroo cameos: If you’re lucky, a kangaroo might hop by, giving you the kind of wildlife moment your dog couldn’t care less about (they’re too busy sniffing rocks).

🐦 Birdwatching (sort of): Birds are around, but good luck getting your dog to notice. If one flies by, consider it a bonus, like a free movie trailer during a dog-focused documentary.

💧 Hydrate: No water troughs, so bring your own! Your dog will give you the stink-eye if you forget their drink.

🚉 No old train tracks: Forget spooky old train stations and relics. Just nature, fresh air, and a dog-friendly path.

💩 Bring a Bag (or Two): No bins, so be prepared to carry around your dog’s masterpiece in a poo bag. It’s part of the adventure!

Grab your dog, pack some water, and head over to the Ferny Grove Rail Trail for a relaxing, kangaroo-spotting, sniff-filled adventure. It’s a walk where nature, peace, and the occasional wildlife sighting are all you need for the perfect weekend outing.

11/11/2024

Just a bulldog, mastering the art of pretending to walk. 🐾

11/11/2024

🚨 STOP EVERYTHING! 🚨

I’ve done the thing... I wrote my first blog post! 🎉
And yes, it only took me, like, a million cups of coffee and half a dozen walks with Franklin. 🐕💨

In my debut post, I share the real reason why I started Tails on Trails—hint: it involves Franklin, a lot of energy, and a decision to quit my office job (because apparently, dogs make way better bosses).

If you want to know how a dog that can’t sit still inspired me to leave the 9-to-5 life and start walking dogs for a living, click the link below! 👇

👉https://tailsontrailspetcare.com/blog/

P.S. If you’re a dog, feel free to leave a comment. Franklin insists he’ll “read” them all. 🐾😂

29/10/2024

When it’s , but the only thing I’m walking is a path of pure disappointment! 😜