Sit Stay Explore

Sit Stay Explore 🌍🐾 Empowering pet sitters to explore while providing top-notch care. Building a global community through fun education.

Our goal: happy pets, relaxed owners, amazing adventures! Join us in spreading joy, one paw at a time! 🏠🐶💖

07/02/2025

🐱 Important conversation: Did you know that 80% of outdoor cats actively hunt other animals? While our feline friends are amazing companions, their impact on local wildlife is something every responsible pet parent should consider.

This eye-opening piece from ABC raises important questions about outdoor cat safety - both for our pets and the environment. What are your thoughts on indoor vs outdoor cats?

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As an animal communicator and behavior specialist, I often see posts from concerned pet parents who are struggling to co...
29/01/2025

As an animal communicator and behavior specialist, I often see posts from concerned pet parents who are struggling to connect with their new companions. This week, I was moved to respond to someone who recently adopted a senior cat and was feeling discouraged because their new friend was keeping her distance and hiding.

The post showed a beautiful black and white cat (original post and photo attached here), and Heather, the adopter, was wondering if maybe the cat just 'didn't like them.' This is something I hear often, and it inspired me to share some important perspectives about how we talk about and interpret our cats' behaviors. (BTW: I've been in touch with Heather, and she is a motivated and loving cat parent, so my comments here are not intended to reflect badly on her but rather support others experiencing similar things.)

🐱 A Gentle Reminder About Respecting Our Feline Friends

When we adopt cats, especially seniors, it's important to remember they're individuals with their own personalities, preferences, and past experiences. Sometimes we unknowingly project our expectations onto them, using language like 'she doesn't like me' or 'she's being difficult' when they're simply communicating their needs in the only way they know how.

If a cat is hiding or keeping distance, they're not being 'unfriendly' - they're telling us something important about their comfort level. Every cat moves at their own pace, and forcing interaction can damage trust. Some cats may never be lap cats or cuddle bugs, and that's perfectly okay! They show love in their own unique ways.

Instead of saying a cat 'wants nothing to do with us,' let's shift our perspective to 'this cat is teaching me about their boundaries.' Remember - a cat who feels respected and safe will show us who they are in their own time. Sometimes the greatest act of love is simply giving them the space to be themselves.

💙 Let's celebrate our cats for who they are, not who we wish them to be. Their independence isn't rejection - it's just part of their beautiful, authentic nature.

I'd love to hear some of your stories of how you built trust with your cat companion.

25/01/2025

One of the great things about pet sitting is that you get to live your life in a community where the normal things for them (and their pets) are actually fabulous for you (the sitter). I'm in Kingston, New Zealand, and right past my house cruised the famous Kingston Flyer steam train. So cool! I love my life!
Bennie my beautiful charge, was like: "Train... Mehh... Throw my ball please!"

🐱 Fun Fact: When we think our cats are being deliberately crafty about getting to high places, there's actually some fas...
18/01/2025

🐱 Fun Fact: When we think our cats are being deliberately crafty about getting to high places, there's actually some fascinating science behind it!

Cats have an innate evolutionary drive to seek elevated positions - it's not just them being stubborn! This behavior, called "vertical territory expansion," serves multiple purposes:

1. Predator instinct: High vantage points give cats a tactical advantage for observing their environment, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors
2. Security: Elevated positions provide a sense of safety and control
3. Physical capability: A cat's muscular hind legs can help them jump up to 6 times their length, making those "out of reach" spots actually quite accessible

So when we think we've outsmarted our feline friends by putting things "out of reach," we're really just activating their natural instincts and abilities!

(Love the giraffe-cat photoshop though - perfectly captures that determined look our cats get! 😄)

🐕 Dog Park Reality Check Ever wonder why dogs insist on making intense eye contact while doing their business? This com...
17/01/2025

🐕 Dog Park Reality Check

Ever wonder why dogs insist on making intense eye contact while doing their business? This comic perfectly captures what every pet sitter knows all too well!

The dog-to-human stare is actually a sign of vulnerability and trust - they're looking to their trusted humans for security while in a compromised position. Though I'm sure sometimes they're just trying to make things awkward! 😂

Tag a pet sitter who knows *exactly* what I'm talking about!

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🐾 During a recent meet-and-greet with a lovely couple, Geoff and Teresa, I witnessed a beautiful moment between Teresa a...
15/01/2025

🐾 During a recent meet-and-greet with a lovely couple, Geoff and Teresa, I witnessed a beautiful moment between Teresa and their cavoodle Freddy.

As a pet professional with a special interest in companion breeds and their communication, I was struck by their shared gaze - warm, connected, and full of mutual understanding. This inspired me to share some fascinating science about our dogs' ability to connect through eye contact!

Did you know your furry best friend has literally evolved to melt your heart? 🧬 Dogs have developed special eye muscles during their journey from wolves to pets, letting them give us those irresistible "puppy dog eyes" that we can't say no to! It's not just cute - it's evolutionary brilliance! While wolves maintain their wild, intense gaze, our domestic dogs have mastered the art of emotional expression through their eyes. This adaptation helped create the incredible human-dog bond we cherish today.

🔬 Fun fact: This muscle development is one of the clearest examples of how dogs have physically evolved to better communicate with humans! Pretty pawsome, right?

💫 Whether you're a pet sitter or pet parent, understanding these unique traits helps us provide better care and build stronger bonds with our four-legged friends!


✨ Want to learn more fascinating facts about pet sitting perfection? Check out our free resources at Sit Stay Explore! 🎓🐕

🐱 THE ULTIMATE PET SITTER'S GUIDE TO CAT MOODS 🐱1. INTERESTEDWhen the cat's tail is up and they're alert: This is great!...
05/01/2025

🐱 THE ULTIMATE PET SITTER'S GUIDE TO CAT MOODS 🐱

1. INTERESTED
When the cat's tail is up and they're alert: This is great! The cat is curious about you. Stay calm, move slowly, and let them approach you. Don't force interaction.

2. FRIENDLY (Tail up)
Success! They're greeting you warmly. Offer your hand at their level to sniff and respond if they rub against you. This is a perfect time for gentle pets.

3. ATTENTIVE
They're focused on you, sitting upright and alert. Perfect time to talk softly and proceed with regular care duties. They're monitoring but comfortable.

4. RELAXED SATISFIED
Lying down, stretched out: Jackpot! The cat feels safe with you. Don't disturb this state - it's precious! Just continue your tasks quietly.

5. THIS IS MINE
They're claiming territory. Respect their space! Don't try to move their favorite toys/blankets. Work around their claimed spots.

6. FRIENDLY (Sitting)
Another welcoming pose. Great time for socialization, but still let them lead the interaction. Gentle head scratches if they initiate.

7. CAUTIOUS
Mixed signals - they're unsure. Give them extra space, avoid direct eye contact, and move predictably. Use treats to build trust from a distance.

8. TRUSTING
Showing their belly: Do NOT rub it (usually)! This shows they feel safe but isn't an invitation for belly rubs. Just acknowledge with a soft voice.

9. LET'S PLAY/GOOD TO SEE YOU
They want interaction! Get out the approved toys listed by the owner. Perfect time for scheduled play sessions. Keep hands away from direct contact.

10. WORRIED
Notice the compact posture. Give them lots of space, ensure they have access to their safe spots. Keep noise and movement minimal.

11. ANXIOUS
Similar to worried but more intense. Check their food/water/litter are easily accessible without them having to venture far from their safe space.

12. IRRITATED
Clear warning sign! Back off immediately, give space. Leave them alone for at least 30 minutes before attempting necessary care tasks.

13. FRIGHTENED
Emergency mode: No direct interaction! Keep very quiet, move slowly if needed. Note this in your update to the owners. Ensure they have a hiding spot.

14. SUPER TERRIFIED
Red alert! Hair raised. Do not approach at all. If you need to provide essential care, wait several hours. Contact owners if this persists.

15. FOCUS
They're in hunting mode. Keep small objects away, watch your ankles! Redirect with toys if needed. Don't interrupt their concentration.

16. HUNTING
Active predator mode. Keep your distance, ensure they stay indoor if required. Provide appropriate toys to channel this energy safely.

🔑 KEY TIPS:
- Always respect their space
- Never force interaction
- Keep their routine exactly as owners specified
- Document any concerning moods
- When in doubt, give them space and time

Remember: A successful pet sitting experience is when the cat feels their territory and routine remained unchanged! 🏠😺

🤔 The Pet Sitter's Dilemma: First to Apply or Strategic Wait?Wondering if being first to apply gives you an edge in pet ...
20/12/2024

🤔 The Pet Sitter's Dilemma: First to Apply or Strategic Wait?
Wondering if being first to apply gives you an edge in pet sitting? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think!
While quick applications show enthusiasm, our research and conversations with experienced sitters reveal that timing isn't the only key to success. Quality profiles, personalized messages, and genuine connections often matter more than being first in line.
Want to dive deeper into application strategies and hear real stories from successful pet sitters? Check out our full blog post here:
https://sitstayexplore.com/the-pet-sitters-dilemma-first-to-apply-or-strategic-wait/
What's your take on application timing? Share your experiences below! 🐱🐶

🐾 YOU'RE NOT ALONE: TOP 10 CONCERNS OF PET SITTERS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM 🐾Uncover the top 10 challenges faced by pet s...
19/09/2024

🐾 YOU'RE NOT ALONE: TOP 10 CONCERNS OF PET SITTERS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM 🐾

Uncover the top 10 challenges faced by pet sitters – from professionals to travel enthusiasts – revealed in our recent industry-wide survey. Learn practical solutions to transform these common hurdles into opportunities for growth and success, whether you're running a business or exchanging services for accommodation while exploring new places.

https://sitstayexplore.com/youre-not-alone-top-10-concerns-of-pet-sitters-and-how-to-address-them/

🐾 Introducing Sit Stay Explore: Your Free Pet Sitting Information Hub! 🏠Hey pet lovers! I'm Leigh, and I'm thrilled to a...
19/09/2024

🐾 Introducing Sit Stay Explore: Your Free Pet Sitting Information Hub! 🏠

Hey pet lovers! I'm Leigh, and I'm thrilled to announce the launch of Sit Stay Explore – a community-driven resource designed to help you kickstart your pet sitting adventure!

🐶 As a full-time pet sitter for the past 3 years, I've learned a thing or two about this amazing lifestyle. Now, I want to share that knowledge with you – completely free!

What you'll find at Sit Stay Explore:
✅ Tips and guides
✅ Customizable templates
✅ Active community forums
✅ And so much more!

Subscribe now to access our treasure trove of free resources. Whether you're looking to land great sits, impress homeowners, or provide top-notch care for pets, we've got you covered.

Ready to elevate your pet sitting game and embrace a flexible, fulfilling lifestyle? Join us at Sit Stay Explore – where your pet sitting journey begins, at no cost to you!

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One of the great things about pet sitting is that you get to live your life in a community where the normal things for them (and their pets) are actually fabulous for you (the sitter). I'm in Kingston, New Zealand, and right past my house cruised the famous Kingston Flyer steam train. So cool! I love my life! Bennie my beautiful charge, was like: "Train... Mehh... Throw my ball please!"

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