The Pro Dog Walkers

08/26/2024

August 26th is National Dog Day!
What will we be doing?
Spending quality time with the pups, of course.

How will you be spending National Dog Day?

* Bake Some Homemade Dog Treats
* Go for a hike
* Plan A Doggy Play Date
* Support An Animal Rescue or Shelter
* Buy Your Dog A New Toy
* Have A Doggy Spa Day

With so many choices, I think your pup will just be happy cuddling up with their favourite hooman.
Enjoy the day with your furry friend.

08/26/2024

DAILY WALKIES
MUST GET UP MONDAY
AUG.26:🐾

EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☀️
Coco-8:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ☀️
Alice-10:00 (P)
Piper-10:00 (G)
Sequoia&Rowdy-10:45 (P)
Sauga&Cinder-11:00 (G)
Maya-11:00 (EM)
Mackie-11:15 (G)
Mia-11:30 (G)
Waffle-11:45 (G)
Jax-11:45 (R)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ☀️
Lola-12:15 (G)
Bandit&Shia-12:30 (R)
Daisy-12:30 (G)
Peppy&Mogli-1:15 (R)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ⛅️
Wagney-2:00 (R)
Bella-3:00 (P)
Guinness-3:45 (P)

EVENING-5-10: ⛅️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-8:00 (G)

08/25/2024

WEEKEND WALKIES
SUNDAY
AUGUST.25:🐾
G-Guelph/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☀️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-8:00 (R)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

08/24/2024

A Guide to Doggy Hiking Etiquette

Ready to hit the trails with your pup?
Hiking with dogs is the preferred way for most dog owners to enjoy the great outdoors, but it comes with its own set of rules. Remember, a well-behaved dog and a mindful owner make for a happy trail!

🐾 Keep Them on a Leash
It’s not just a rule—it’s a safety imperative. Keeping your dog on a leash ensures you always know where they are and keeps them safe.

🐾Pick Up Their P**p!
One of the golden rules of hiking is to LEAVE NO TRACE. This means picking up after your pup and disposing of their waste properly.

🐾Respect Wildlife
Keep your dog from chasing or harassing animals to avoid disrupting the natural behavior of local wildlife.

🐾Check Park Regulations
Each park has its own set of rules for pets, whether they’re limited to picnic areas and parking lots or certain trails and backcountry areas. It’s best to do a little homework before you go and check the dog-friendly zones.

🐾Keep Vaccinations and ID Up to Date
Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are current and that they’re wearing proper ID tags. It’s also a good idea to have a recent photo of your pet on hand.

🐾 B.A.R.K.
B is for Bag Your Waste
A is for Always Wear a Leash
R is for Respect Wildlife
K is for Know Where to Go.

08/24/2024

WEEKEND WALKIES
SATURDAY
AUGUST.24:🐾
G-Guelph/P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10: ☀️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-8:00 (R)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2:☀️
Bailey2-12:15 (G)
Charlie&Georgie-1:00 (R)
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-1:45 (R)

EVENING-5-9:☀️
Wally&Juno-5:00 (P)
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-8:00 (R)

08/24/2024

Enjoying an evening on the town and a fun start to our ⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit with Team Members Red & Jep

08/23/2024

Happy Friday Everyone!

Wow Summer has really zoomed on by and cannot believe it’s almost time for Back To School!

Although your PDW Dogwalkers & Team Members are thoroughly taking advantage of all these beautiful summer Dogwalking days.

Can you find a couple of our past Team Members that dropped in?
Lemmy has been enjoying his summer up at the Sauble Beach trailer park and Zoey checked in from her backyard flop in Nova Scotia.

We also want to give a Bark Out to some Furry Fan Followers that wanted to join in on this week’s collage:

~Penny-Erie,PA 🇺🇸
~Delta-Westfield, N.J 🇺🇸
~Frederick-Framingham,MA 🇺🇸

📸 Don’t forget if you have a favourite pet photo you took and want to have your pet showcased, on our Furriendly Friday Schowcase, just email us at: [email protected]

08/23/2024

6 Tips for City Life with a Reactive Dog

Having a reactive dog means embracing a different kind of dog ownership. Let’s just say it’s not exactly a walk in the park (literally!). City living—crowded streets, loud noises, and people everywhere—can be challenging. Reactive dogs may bark, growl, or lunge, not out of aggression, but as a way to cope with anxiety, fear, or past trauma. These misunderstood pups are just trying to feel safe. For dog owners who share life with a reactive dog, it is possible to make city life work.
To every reactive dog mom or dad, it is possible to make city life work. Here are 6 tips to help navigate city living and keep your dog safe.

*Keep Your Dog Stimulated. One way to help your reactive dog thrive in the city is to keep them mentally stimulated. Keeping their mind active can ease their anxiety and prevent boredom, which often triggers reactive behavior. When it’s not safe to head outside or your dog is too anxious, keep them busy indoors with activities like scent work, food puzzles, snuffle mats, or tough chews.

*Have the Right Tools. Having the right tools can make a world of difference when managing your reactive pup in various situations. Harnesses with messages like “do not pet” or “do not approach” can let others know that your dog needs space. A sturdy leash, collar, or harness can help you keep your pup under control if they become triggered. Keeping treats and toys handy are good for redirecting their attention if needed, and even provides positive reinforcement for staying calm in stressful and new environments.

*Find Quiet Spaces. Finding quieter outdoor spaces is a great way to make outside time more enjoyable for your dog. Look for green areas nearby where you can take walks during off-peak hours. Consider driving to less busy neighborhoods for longer walks, allowing your dog to decompress and explore without nose-to-nose encounters with other dogs. Aim for early or late walks to dodge crowds and high traffic, and scout out routes that have minimal noise and foot traffic. These steps will help reduce your dog’s stress and create a more peaceful experience for both of you. For a reactive dog, this can be a game changer.

*Do Training. Teaching your dog commands like heeling and “behind me” can help create space when navigating crowds or dealing with oblivious strangers and overly friendly dogs. Use these commands to guide your dog safely and don’t hesitate to wait between parked cars or behind trees to avoid tight spots. Sometimes, you may need to physically block others while redirecting your dog.

*Muzzle training is another thing to consider here. Even if you trust your dog, a muzzle adds an extra layer of safety, especially in crowded or stressful situations. It also tells people to give you and your dog some space. Despite any preconceptions you might have, muzzles can be introduced in a positive way and may even become something your dog enjoys wearing.

*Create a Safe Home. In the city, it’s hard to predict every outing. That’s just a fact. However, you can always create a safe, calming haven at home for your pup. When choosing a new place, consider opting for an apartment on a higher floor to reduce noise and ensure a layout that doesn’t overwhelm your dog.
It's also helpful for your pup to have access to a crate or bed they feel comfortable in, with soft bedding and their favorite toys. White noise machines or calming classical music can help mask strange neighbor noises. Making sure your dog feels safe and calm in their own home is essential for their well-being and everyday life.

*Have Routine. Reactive dogs do best with a steady routine and structure—especially when their walks are a gamble. A predictable schedule helps your dog feel more confident and less stressed. Think of it as your dog's daily dose of predictability: feeding at the same time, regular walks, and consistent playtime and exercise. It’s their way of knowing what’s coming next and feeling like they’ve got their own little rhythm in a sometimes chaotic world.

Have a Reactive Dog? What tips or tricks have you found helps your pet? 👇

08/23/2024

DAILY WALKIES
FEEL GOOD FRIDAY
AUG.23:🐾

EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:⛅️
Coco-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)
Roxy-9:45 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ⛅️
Alice-10:00 (P)
Sauga&Cinder -10:45 (G)
Sequoia&Rowdy-10:45 (P)
Maya-11:00 (EM)
Izzy&Ivy-11:30 (G)
Reggie&Mordy-11:45 (G)
Jax-11:45 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ⛅️
Mia-12:00 (G)
Waffle-12:15 (G)
Ryder-12:30 (G)
Wagney-12:30 (R)
Bailey2-1:00 (G)
Mackie-1:15 (G)
Bella&Max-1:15 (R)
Holly-1:45 (G)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ⛅️
Roxy-2:30 (G)
Bella-3:00 (P)

EVENING-5-10: ⛅️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Jep&Red-8:00 (G)

08/22/2024

In the event that your cat or dog goes missing, did you know that microchipping your pet is the most reliable way to have them reconnected with their family? Indoor pets can still go missing and without the important information a microchip can provide, the odds of returning home reduce significantly.

Protect your pet by booking a microchip appointment at the Guelph Humane Society Microchip Clinic taking place Saturday, September 28th from 10am-2pm!

Appointments are available for both cats and dogs.

Visit https://guelphhumane.ca/microchip-clinic/ to book your appointment today!

08/22/2024

Have you ever stepped on a dog’s tail or paw? The guilt can be deep.
How do you tell your fur child that you didn’t mean to do it?
A new study suggests that dogs can tell if you messed something up on accident or if you did something on purpose.
Researchers measured reactions of dogs when their owners accidentally dropped a treat versus when owners intentionally withheld a treat and found that they were significantly different.

Doesn’t it make you feel better knowing that dogs might know when we are just being human?

08/22/2024

DAILY WALKIES
THURSDAY THOUGHTS
AUG.22:🐾

E-Erin/EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☀️
Coco-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ☀️
Nash&Ovi-10:00 (R)
Alice-10:00 (P)
Sequoia&Rowdy -10:45 (P)
Maya-10:45 (EM)
Izzy&Ivy -11:00 (G)
Jax -11:30 (R)
Sauga&Cinder -11:45 (G)
Mackie-11:45 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ☀️
Rupert&Leo-12:00 (E)
Leia-12:00 (R)
Lola-12:30 (G)
Tucker2-12:45 (G)
Wagney-1:00 (R)
Etta-1:30 (G)
Sophie&Gabbie-1:30 (G)
Peppy&Mogli-1:45 (G)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ☀️
Holly-2:15 (G)

08/21/2024

5 Reasons Your Dog is Munching on Grass

* Upset Stomach
Dogs will eat grass when their tummies are bothering them. Grass helps settle their stomachs by bringing pH levels down and soothing the discomfort they feel.
If your pup vomits bile – the yellow foam – that’s a sure sign the grass eating is from tummy troubles. Bile typically indicates that their stomach is empty and bile can be very uncomfortable. Do you know how an empty stomach can make us feel so hungry that it’s almost nauseating? That’s how the bile sitting in our pups’ tummies can feel like. So, eating grass helps them get rid of it and feel better. Some dogs can benefit from a little breakfast to keep that bile at bay.

* It’s Instinct
Dogs can crave grass as part of their genetic makeup: dogs are descended from wolves. Therefore, they naturally balanced their diets by eating what they hunted which included everything: meat, bones, internal organs, and stomach contents of their prey, which usually contained grass that fulfilled their need for fiber!

* Boredom
Sometimes, dogs eating grass can boil down to plain old boredom. Just like we mindlessly reach for a bag of pretzels when we’re not really hungry, but there’s nothing better going on, dogs can resort to grass snacking for a little entertainment.
Especially for pups who spend too much time indoors or don’t have enough interaction during their outside time, grass can end up being the highlight of their day. So, let’s remember to keep our dogs busy with plenty of exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation – because a well-stimulated dog is a happy (and less grass-obsessed) dog!

* A Lack of Fiber
Eating grass may be your dog’s way of making up for nutritional deficiencies in their diet. Fiber is the main culprit here. Dogs need roughage and fiber in their diets, and grass is a good source. A lack of roughage affects the way our pups digest food and pass stool, so grass can help their bodily functions run more smoothly. If it’s common for your doggo to have soft stool or constipation regularly, then fiber may be just what they need!
If you think this is the reason why your dog is eating grass, then it’s wise to reassess their diet to make sure they’re getting what they need. Some fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber and safe to give to your pup in moderation are blueberries, carrots, apples (without the core and seeds), cantaloupe, watermelon, cucumbers, pumpkin, broccoli, celery, and green beans.

* Grass is Tasty
For some dogs, their reason for eating grass may be as simple as just liking the taste and texture of it. Who can blame them? The wet, fragrant grass after rain is like nature’s very own salad bar, and the new grass growing at the beginning of spring is so fresh! For something as basic as grass, it does provide some seasonal variety.
Regardless of why your dog munches on grass, it’s important to monitor their intake and make sure it’s not a daily habit or becoming excessive. If you’re away from your own yard, keep in mind that other grass may be treated with harmful herbicides and pesticides that can be toxic to your pup, as well as the potential presence of f***l residue from other dogs.
Keep your grass muncher safe!

08/21/2024

DAILY WALKIES
WELLNESS WEDNESDAY
AUG.21:🐾

E-Erin/EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☀️
Coco & Zoey-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ⛅️
Alice-10:00 (P)
Nash&Ovi -10:15 (R)
Sequoia&Rowdy-10:45 (P)
Jax-11:00 (R)
Maya-11:00 (EM)
Rupert&Leo-11:00 (E)
Sauga&Cinder-11:30 (G)
Mackie-11:45 (G)
Louis-11:45 (R)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ☁️
Mia-12:00 (G)
Tank-12:15 (G)
Peppy&Mogli-12:30 (R)
Lola-12:45 (G)
Tucker2-1:00 (G)
Izzy&Ivy-1:00 (G)
Wagney-1:15 (R)
Holly-1:45 (G)
Etta-1:45 (G)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ☁️
Roxy-2:30 (G)
Bella-3:00 (P)

EVENING-5-10: ☁️
Tucker3-8:30 (G)

08/20/2024

GHS Cutest Pet Photo Contest

08/20/2024

It is important to supervise all interactions between youths of different species.

Dogs may see children as potential puppy playmates or may be confused by their unpredictable movements.

Of course, children should be taught how best to interact with dogs but you can prepare your pup, too.

Teach a “go away” cue and use it when you think some alone time might help everyone calm down.

Keep an eye out for tense situations, like contested toys, and give your dog breaks in a room without human children, especially if it seems that they want some space.

08/20/2024

DAILY WALKIES
TEEF TUESDAY
AUG.20:🐾

E-Erin/EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☀️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-8:00 (G)
Coco&Zoey-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ⛅️
Wally-10:00 (P)
Nash&Ovi -10:15 (R)
Guinness-10:45 (P)
Rupert&Leo-11:00 (E)
Jax-11:00 (R)
Maya-11:00 (EM)
Alice -11:00 (P)
Sauga&Cinder -11:30 (G)
Louis -11:45 (R)
Sequoia&Rowdy -11:45 (P)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ⛅️
Izzy&Ivy-12:00 (G)
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-12:30 (G)
Wagney-12:30 (R)
Tuck-12:30 (G)
Tucker2-12:45 (G)
Lola-1:15 (G)
Mackie -1:15 (G)
Bella&Max -1:15 (R)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ⛅️
Guinness-3:00 (P)

EVENING-5-10: ⛅️
Tucker3-8:30 (G)

08/19/2024

Doggy Dreams 💤

As we watch our pups with their tiny barks and running paws while they sleep, we can’t help but wonder: Are they dreaming? What are they dreaming about?
While we can’t be 100% sure, the evidence suggests that dogs do dream!

Just like us, dogs experience REM sleep, where dreams are the most vivid and memorable. This is the stage where we see our pups twitch, bark, and yip — classic signs they’re deep in dreamland.

Scientists have studied sleep cycles in both people and dogs and found that their dreaming patterns are surprisingly similar.

Now, onto the fun part: what could our pups be dreaming about? Behavioral experts believe our dogs are likely dreaming about real-life experiences, like chasing squirrels, playing fetch, or those beloved nose smooches and forehead nuzzles from you.

While our pups can’t tell us their dream stories, it’s fun to guess and imagine where their dreams take them.

08/19/2024

DAILY WALKIES
MONDAY MOOD
AUG.19:🐾

EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☁️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-8:00 (G)
Coco&Zoey-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ☁️
Alice-10:00 (P)
Roxy-10:15 (G)
Sequoia&Rowdy -10:45 (P)
Maya-11:00 (EM)
Izzy&Ivy-11:00 (G)
Sauga&Cinder-11:30 (G)
Louis -11:45 (R)
Tucker3-11:45 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ☁️
Mia-12:00 (G)
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-12:15 (G)
Peppy&Mogli-12:30 (R)
Mackie-12:45 (G)
Lola-1:00 (G)
Wagney-1:15 (R)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ☁️
Roxy-2:00 (G)
Bella-3:00 (P)
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-4:30 (G)

EVENING-5-10: ☁️
⭐️Come’N’Go Petsit-Callum-8:30 (G)

08/18/2024

Some happy PDW Team Members who enjoyed their weekend walkies:
*Callum
*Tucker
*Lucy
*Beau
*Wally
*Alice

Looking forward to a wonderful week ahead full of adventures.

08/18/2024

ABC’s & 123’s But Please Don’t Forget About Me!

Kids going back to school and not able to walk the dog anymore?
Time to start planning your pet care when the kids go back to school!

Our Team of Professional Dogwalkers/Petsitters can offer to help with any separation anxiety your pets may begin to feel and offer either a 30min,45min or 1hr midday break to let them play, socialize and have fun and expel some of that pent up energy bringing them home tired,happy and content.
Eliminate the separation anxiety your pet may experience by calling on your Dogwalkers now for a scheduled 30min,45min or 1 hour walk break. Once you establish your routine back with your Dogwalker, your pet will start to look forward to and anticipate the midday walks.
Get a head start on your pet care planning and Call on The Pros. Your Pet Will Thank You!

08/18/2024

08/18/2024

WEEKEND WALKIES
SUNDAY FUNDAY
AUGUST.17:🐾
G-Guelph/P-Puslinch

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☁️
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12:☁️
Wally-10:00 (P)
Tucker3-11:00 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2:🌧️
⭐️Callum-12:00 (G)

EVENING-5-9:🌧️
⭐️Callum-5:00 (G)
⭐️Callum-8:00 (G)

08/17/2024

The first IHAD took place back in 1992, and was spearheaded by the International Society For Animal Rights.
The awareness event’s mission was—and is—to “halt the euthanasia and suffering of unwanted companion animals.” It’s the only worldwide event aimed at helping homeless pets.
One of its main focuses is promoting affordable adoption and spay/neuter programs. That’s a pawesome goal!

Do you want to get involved?
One of the best things that you can do is to ensure that your own pets have been spayed or neutered. You can also find events to support, either in person or online. Of course, the ultimate way to join in would be to adopt a furry friend.

08/17/2024

HAPPY CATURDAY
AUGUST.17: 😸
G-Guelph/P-Puslinch

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☁️
Lucy-9:00 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2:☁️
Alice-12:00 (P)

EVENING-5-9:☁️
Wally-5:00 (P)

08/16/2024

Happy Furry Friday PDW Team Members!

It was a fun week filled with table dancing, windmill guarding fun!

We even have some Festive Fan Followers wanting to join in on this week’s photo collage.
Please give a Bark Out to our Furriends:

🐾Jake & Teddy~Pittsburgh,PA 🇺🇸
🐾Brooks~Dunnville,Ontario 🇨🇦
🐾Maizee~Stewartsville,NJ 🇺🇸

Wishing everyone a fun-filled weekend. Where has the summer gone?!

08/16/2024

The Guelph Humane Society is now recruiting dog foster volunteers!

Calling all dog lovers in Guelph and Wellington County! Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of dogs in need? The Guelph Humane Society needs your help! We're thrilled to announce that we're now recruiting dog foster volunteers to join our compassionate team.

Fostering is a rewarding experience that provides temporary homes for dogs waiting for their new homes and families. Whether it's a medium to large breed dog, energetic puppy or gentle senior, your love and care can make all the difference.

If you're ready to open your heart and home to a furry friend in need, we want to hear from you!

Apply now online here https://guelphhumane.ca/get-involved/foster/ to become a foster volunteer and be a hero for animals in our community.

08/16/2024

Volunteer Opportunities with Your Dog

Your dog’s natural ability to love is a skill in itself that can be put to great use.

If you think your dog would thrive with a greater sense of purpose and enjoy giving back, check out these low-commitment volunteer opportunities.

Libraries. Many libraries offer a fantastic program where kids can build their confidence and fluency by reading aloud to dogs. Your dog can be the non-judgmental, patient, and gentle companion that kids need while practicing their reading. Check out your local library’s requirements and program details to see if your dog would be a good fit!

Charity Runs. Take your pup along on your next charity run! Most dogs love running anyway, and now they can do it with a purpose. Most runs allow your dogs to join the race.

Donate Blood. Your dog can make a life-saving difference by donating blood to help other dogs in need, whether they’re recovering from surgery or battling a disease.

Nursing Homes. Many senior centers welcome dogs without requiring formal certification, as long as your pup is well-behaved. Dogs have a magical ability (as we know) to reduce feelings of loneliness, depression, stress, and anxiety. Imagine how wonderful it is for residents who have had dogs in the past to experience the joy that dogs bring once again and much-needed companionship.

08/16/2024

DAILY WALKIES
FABULOUS FRIDAY
AUG.16:🐶

E-Erin/EM-Eden Mills
G-Guelph
P-Puslinch/R-Rockwood

EARLY MORNING-8-10:☁️
Coco-8:00 (G)
Lucy-9:00 (G)

MORNING-10-12: ⛅️
Alice-10:00 (G)
Sequoia&Rowdy-10:45 (P)
Jax-11:00 (G)
Izzy&Ivy-11:00 (G)
Maya-11:30 (EM)
Sauga&Cinder-11:45 (G)

AFTERNOON-12-2: ⛅️
Mia-12:00 (G)
Ryder-12:00 (G)
Peppy&Mogli-12:15 (R)
Mackie-12:30 G)
Aussie-12:45 (G)
Wagney-1:00 (R)
Bella&Max-1:45 (R)
Holly-1:45 (G)

LATE AFTERNOON-2-5: ⛅️
Bella-3:00 (P)

EVENING-5-10: ⛅️
Beau-5:00 (G)