Crockett's Critter Care

08/24/2024

I had a fantastic time today at the Bark to School fundraiser hosted by A Dog's Dream. I had the pleasure of meeting the new owner, Chrystal, the talented event photographer, Hannah, and the coordinator from Craven Pamlico Animal Services Center, Elizabeth. I also had a chance to tour the facility, chat with Hannah about some exciting future collaborations, and discuss getting involved in the shelter's upcoming fundraiser in September. I love how our community comes together to support one another and put the animals first! So many adorable pets were available for adoption. Great day for a great cause!

08/13/2024

Introduction: I had been attending training classes for years with several of my dogs—Duke, a found hound; Dallas, a Lab Chow mix; and Savannah, a Walker Hound.These classes were geared towards preparing for the show ring, focusing on obedience and rally. Under the capable guidance of our trainer, the students did well in competitions. Although I never intended to show my dogs, I loved learning about them and spending time with people who shared my passion.

When it came time to get my next dog, I knew exactly what I wanted—a German Shepherd puppy. My plan was to start early with puppy classes and continue through advanced obedience, envisioning a well-trained, obedient companion.

The Beginning: One of my classmates, an ethical breeder of German Shepherds, had a new litter of puppies. Her dogs were known for good health, excellent lineage, and superior showmanship. I was thrilled to bring Davy, as I called my pup, into my home and heart. We started off strong. I envisioned him maturing into the most amazing dog I had ever owned. He was smart, and when he looked at me with those beautiful eyes and cocked head, it was as if he was asking, “What’s next?”

My Hopes Dashed: However, Davy’s behavior was anything but smooth sailing. He exhibited tendencies to bark and lunge at other dogs, cats, and squirrels—on walks, from the yard, and even inside the house. He became embarrassing and destructive. My once adorable puppy turned into a 60-pound adult dog that I could only walk when no one else was around. His window antics led to noisy outbursts and chewed-up windowsills. Traditional training classes did nothing to resolve our issues. At the age of five, Davy was asked not to return to class following a vocal altercation with a newly attending Dachshund. The experience left me grappling with a range of emotions—from embarrassment to guilt and shame.

The Turning Point: Determined to find a solution, I embarked on a quest to understand the difference between obedience and behavior modification. I learned that while obedience training focuses on tasks like sit, down, stay, wait, and come, behavior modification addresses how dogs feel and react to the world around them. While Davy was capable of being a Blue Ribbon Champion in the ring, his behavior made that impossible.

Our turning point came when I took the time to truly understand his reactions and changed my approach with a new perspective. This was when life with Davy shifted from being hard and frustrating to becoming easier and more fulfilling.

Challenges and Joys: No longer do I have to check if the coast is clear to take him for a walk. We now regularly visit our neighborhood parks, where he can sniff, enjoy some parkour, and get exercise. We walk quietly in the neighborhood, even passing dogs behind fences without incident. My worries about others judging me as a clueless dog owner or labeling Davy as difficult have been replaced with comments like, “Wow, Davy is not the same dog,” and “You’re doing a wonderful job with him.”

Acceptance and Unconditional Love:Davy is nine years old now, and our journey has evolved into a beautiful partnership with an unbreakable bond.

Conclusion: Davy is “that dog”—the one who taught me more than I could have learned from any other dog. Our experience has shifted my focus to include both obedience and behavior modification in my training. My goal is to provide solutions in my community for pet owners who have dogs like Davy. My journey with Davy has inspired me to become a Canine Reactivity Specialist so that I can help others whose dogs need more than traditional training classes. If my success with Davy can help you and your dog, then this journey has been worth every challenge.‍

08/12/2024

Angus loves to go to the park on a beautiful summer day. Angus is a proud graduate of our reactive dog training program.

08/12/2024

We're thrilled to introduce our newest pet care team member, Nora! She brings a deep love of animals and an eagerness to learn more about them. We're delighted to have her on board and can't wait for you and your pets to meet her.

08/11/2024

Does your puppy need entertainment? Our staff is trained in enrichment activities. We can take care of your puppy when you can't.

08/10/2024

Our team loves to see our client's pets, relaxed and happy during our visits. Meet comfy Gandalf.

08/08/2024

Fergie needs a good home. Please, consider sharing to increase her chances of getting one.

08/05/2024

At Crockett's Critter Care, we treat your pets like family! From walking and playing to medicating and light grooming, we ensure every pet feels loved and cared for. Whether it's feeding time, turning on their favorite TV show (hello, Grey's Anatomy fans!) or PBS Radio, cuddling up for some quality snuggle time, or rewarding them with treats - we've got it all covered. We've been making pet friends since 2009.

07/11/2024

Ozzie walks in his neighborhood frequently. He always finds something to get excited about. What's in there, Ozzie?

07/01/2024

Keep Your Pets Safe and Calm During Fireworks: Fear-Free Tips for the 4th of July

Introduction:
While the Fourth of July is a time for celebration and dazzling fireworks displays for humans, it can be a source of fear and anxiety for many pets. Veterinarians often see a spike in visits around this time as pet owners seek help for their stressed animals. Ensuring your pet's safety and comfort during fireworks is crucial for their well-being.
As a pet owner, I watch my little Walker Hound, Ginger, tremble from the first pop of neighborhood firecrackers to the last crescendo of the community fireworks display. Noise like this can send dogs into a frenzy. As a pet sitter, I've even been hired to drive a frightened downtown client’s dog around in my car with the radio turned up until the nighttime celebrations were over. As a Fear Free Professional, I am deeply concerned about our pets' emotional and physical well-being.

Preparation Tips:
• Exercise: Give your dog plenty of exercise earlier in the day to help them burn off energy.
• Safe Space: Provide a safe, den-like place inside for your dogs to retreat, such as a crate. If your fearful, upset dog finds a hiding spot - don’t try to pull him out from it. A frightened dog can bite if it feels cornered. Instead, gently lure him/her out with a treat.
• ACE Free Work: an enrichment activity with lickimats, snuffle mats, food puzzles, and treat stations is a wonderful way to calm your pet before the noise begins.
• Reassurance: if your pet comes to you for attention, calm them with petting or a gentle massage.

Pre-Fireworks Care:
• ID Tags: Ensure your dog is wearing ID tags in case they escape.
• Vet Consultation: In serious cases, talk to your vet about medications that may help.
• Party Precautions: If you're hosting a party, keep dogs away from the grill, alcohol, and unsafe foods (chocolate, xylitol, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, onions, avocado, and bread dough).
• Hazardous Decor: Keep pets away from decor that could cause harm if swallowed, such as shiny or colorful wrappers, sparklers, and glow sticks.

During the Fireworks:
• Stay Inside: Keep your pets indoors with you and don't leave them alone. Shelters fill up with lost dogs that are spooked and escape from their yard. Do not take your dog with you to a fireworks display.
• Close Windows and Curtains: This helps to muffle the sound and block out the flashes of light.
• Lighten up: Turn on the indoor lights to decrease the contrast of light changes.
• Fun Distractions: Give your dog something fun to do, like a frozen treat-filled peanut butter Kong.
• Soothing Tools: Consider using compression wraps or garments like a Thundershirt.
• Calming Pheromones: Products like Adaptil collars and diffusers for dogs and Feliway for cats can help some pets relax.
• Background Noise: Use fans, white noise machines, audio books, music designed for pets, or leave the TV on.

Conclusion: By taking these steps, you can help ensure that both you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July. Remember to stay safe, have fun, and take good care of your pet! Happy 4th of July!

06/29/2024

There's No Place Like Home

While you are planning your summer escapes, remember, your pets would really prefer to sleep in their own bed, have their regular food, and maintain their sovereignty at home than hit the road with you. They like a consistent routine and that one sunshiny spot in the living room to stretch out for their mid-morning nap. Let Crockett's Critter Care take care of your pets while you're away and you'll both be happy. Crockett's will come to your home, on your schedule, to provide exercise and playtime, snuggles and snacks, and the kindness your fur baby craves when you are not available.

We are bonded and insured, which means you are hiring trained professionals to care for your beloved pet whether furry, feathered, or finned. For Fear Free Professional pet sitting and dog walking go to our website and contact Jeanne by email, or call her at 252.635.2655
https://www.crockettscrittercare.com/

We would love to meet you and your pet family.

06/29/2024

Help needed. Please, spread the word so these pets can get the care they deserve.

06/17/2024

TIPS FOR BRACHY PETS: Breeds characterized by their short, broad skulls and flat faces need special care in the hot weather because they can't breathe well. If you own one of these cute and affectionate breeds, be sure to moniter their breathing, avoid strenuous exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and provide regular veterinary check ups. These pups do not handle heat and humidity well and can quickly overheat.

Some of the popular breeds are Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Shih Tzus, and Pekingese. Keep them safe and healthy.

05/22/2024

Capturing Hope: Hanna's mission to highlight shelter pets.

In Craven County, a remarkable woman is making a significant difference for local shelter pets through her camera lens. Hanna Bratz of HLB Photography is a former corrections officer with deep empathy for those in need. She has turned her focus to capturing the essence of dogs in our local shelter. Her photographs are far from the typical, unflattering cell phone images; they highlight the true spirit and personality of each animal, giving them a chance to shine and increasing their chances of finding a forever home.

Hanna observes that 90% of the pets in our shelter are experiencing genuine attention and loving care there for the first time in their lives. Her compassionate approach, honed during her years of helping inmates, translates beautifully to her work with these animals. Through her camera, Hanna brings out the best in every pet, making it easier for potential adopters to see their unique charm and potential as loving companions.

But Hanna's contributions don't stop at photography. She generously donates a portion of the earnings from her private photography business to support the very shelter pets she features on her social media posts. This act of kindness not only helps with the immediate needs of the animals, but also gives them hope for a better future - motivating others to adopt and provide wonderful homes.

Her dedication and passion for these animals are truly inspiring. She is a shining example of how one person's talent and compassion can make a profound impact on the lives of shelter employees, the pets they care for, and the people who adopt them.

To see more of Hanna's photography, visit her FB Business page, Instagram, and website.

05/20/2024

This is wonderful for our community. If your pet requires a specialist in neurology, you don't have to drive hours for an appointment with a specialist. You can now go to Synergy for a teleconference. I love what Dr. Geradi and her team are doing to help our pets. We are fortunate to have this opportunity.

Samantha Vitale graduated from Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She completed a small animal rotating internship at the University of Georgia, then completed a specialty internship and residency in Neurology and Neurosurgery at the University of Illinois. While tr...

04/29/2024

A wonderful and enriching new discovery and philosophy is the Slow Dog Movement. It's taking the time to slow down your activities with your dog to create an opportunity for better understanding and keener observations while developing a stronger connection. It's easy, it's fun, and it's meaningful. Pictured is Davy enjoying a still moment at the park. Follow this link to my recent blog to learn more: https://www.crockettscrittercare.com/blog/embracing-the-slow-dog-movement-a-journey-to-connection-and-calmness

04/22/2024

So happy that Nauti Paws has come over to our side of town. I have recommended this establishment since it opened downtown a long time ago. It's unique, has great products, and wonderful people. Your dog will love it!

Send a message to learn more

03/26/2024

03/26/2024

Please, help get the word out. These pets need us.

03/16/2024

Congratulations Millie on Excelling in the Thriving Team Course!

Dear Millie, your dedication, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn were inspiring throughout every session. Moreover, I commend your guardians for their unwavering support and active participation. Their involvement and afternoon practice sessions undoubtedly contributed to your success. It is wonderful to witness such a strong family dynamic.

Millie, your vibrant energy brought joy to our sessions. Keep up the fantastic work and remain friendly to the neighborhood cats.

I wish you all continued success and happiness in your future endeavors.
.

03/14/2024

Davy led me around the park today. It was a good outing with a chance for him to take in a lot of smells. We both had a nice time. He was on his best behavior and turned a lot of heads. So happy with how far he has come.

03/08/2024

Ginger had her first treatment for her arthritis at Synergy Integrative Specialty Veterinary Clinic. This was a Special Day. Dr. Gerardi said she would be around for a long time.

03/03/2024

An Impromptu Triumph for Davy!

This morning, while enjoying a leisurely walk with Davy in the neighborhood, something truly heartwarming unfolded. As we strolled along, one of our friendly neighbors called out to Davy - a common occurrence during our outings.
After assessing the situation carefully, I made the spontaneous decision to drop Davy's leash, allowing him to close the distance of about fifty feet to greet our neighbor. Of course, I made sure all was safe beforehand.
Now here is where the magic happened. As Davy bounded enthusiastically towards our neighbor, we all spotted a squirrel lurking nearby - a tempting distraction for any pup, especially one as spirited as Davy. Knowing Davy's penchant for chasing squirrels in our backyard, I braced myself to redirect his attention once the inevitable chase ensued.
But to my absolute delight, Davy surprised me. Just a few steps towards the squirrel, and then almost as if he'd reconsidered, he pivoted back towards our neighbor, craving affection and attention instead.
This moment is worth celebrating! It's a testament to Davy's progress and growth from the reactive dog he once was to the attentive and thoughtful companion he is today. I couldn't be prouder of him. Here's to more moments of triumph and growth for Davy - my loyal and endlessly surprising furry friend.
Please, share below the moments that you are celebrating with your pet.

02/28/2024

What does your pet do that makes you smile? Our clients' pets have been melting our hearts with their antics and adorable moments for years. Here is a sampling of the moments that bring us joy. Share a precious moment of your own fur baby in the comments below. Let's fill this feed with smiles and spread some cheer.

02/24/2024

Thank you, Dr. Girardi, for inviting me to the informative seminar on seizure management. We are grateful that Synergy Integrative Veterinary Clinic now offers virtual specialty consultations in neurology, orthopedics, rehab, and integrative oncology. What an inclusive use of your community helping our pets. While in the past, pet owners had to drive to Raleigh or other destinations to seek care, veterinarians can now refer their clients to your clinic. Let's keep our furry friends healthy and happy together!

Therapeutic exercises enhance strength, flexibility, balance and coordination to improve mobility. These exercises can slow the progression of arthritis.

02/20/2024

Davy and Ginger have a new fence. Carolina Fence Company did a very good job. I can’t wait to decorate it for some ACE Free Work activity.

02/11/2024

EMBRACING ACE FREE WORK: A TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEY IN CANINE ENRICHMENT

Introduction:
ACE Free Work, spearheaded by Sarah Fisher of Tilley Farm, stands as a beacon of innovation in the realm of canine enrichment. This transformative approach offers a holistic and deeply enriching experience for dogs of all ages and backgrounds. As a dedicated student and soon-to-be ACE Trainer, I am thrilled to share the profound impact this revolutionary method has had on the lives of dogs and their human companions.
Discovering ACE Free Work
My journey with ACE Free Work began unexpectedly during a Reactivity Course I was enrolled in to help my dog, Davy. He is a well-bred German Shepherd who has always struggled with reactivity towards other dogs, making traditional training methods challenging. Despite my extensive background in various dog sports and certifications, ACE Free Work was a revelation that somehow eluded me throughout my years of study and practice.

A Paradigm Shift
Unlike traditional training methods focused on obedience and performance, ACE Free Work prioritizes the individual needs and well-being of the dog. It encourages a deeper understanding of canine behavior and emotions, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive environment where dogs can thrive without the pressure of performance expectations.
Exploring ACE Free Work
At its core, ACE Free Work transcends traditional notions of dog training, offering a safe and stimulating environment for dogs to engage in natural behaviors such as sniffing, exploring, and problem-solving. Through creatively designed stations and interactive experiences, dogs are empowered to express themselves authentically, while owners gain invaluable insights into their furry friends' preferences, behaviors, and emotional needs.

The Promise of ACE Free Work
As I near the completion of my journey to become an ACE Trainer, I am filled with anticipation for the future of this groundbreaking method. With its roots firmly planted in the United Kingdom and its influence rapidly spreading across the globe, ACE Free Work is poised to revolutionize the way we engage with and care for our canine companions. By embracing ACE Free Work, pet owners can unlock a world of possibilities for their pets, fostering independence, resilience, and optimism in the face of life's challenges.

Conclusion:
In a world where the well-being of our pets is paramount, ACE Free Work offers a refreshing and transformative approach to canine enrichment. Through its emphasis on observation, understanding, and empowerment, ACE Free Work has the potential to enhance the lives of dogs and their owners.

02/06/2024

ENSURING SAFETY EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

At Crockett's Critter Care, the well-being of your furry friends isn't just a priority -- it's a promise. We are thrilled to share that Nicholas, a loyal member of our team for the past five years, has recently renewed his Pet First Aid/CPR training!

With his updated skills and expertise, we're even better equipped to handle any situation that comes our way, ensuring the safety and health of our clients' pets.

Join us in congratulating Nicholas for his commitment to excellence and his unwavering dedication to the well-being of our furry friends.

Together we create a safer, happier environment for all.

02/04/2024

Meet Ellie and Leon, the dynamic duo with personalities as big as their hearts.
Leon is the master of "Spaniel-ing" around the yard and Ellie, the "stick enthusiast" is a joy to watch. Both charm us with their playful antics. They love attention and belly rubs as well as a game of fetch. Getting to know them is an adventure in itself. Each visit brings new surprises and endearing moments that make our time together unforgettable.
We love going to work every day.

01/25/2024

Pawsitively Exceptional Pet Care
Our pet sitters and dog walkers go above and beyond to ensure the well-being of your furry friends! During two recent cat visits, our attentive sitter noticed a beeping sound that was distressing the cats. With a keen ear and a caring heart, our sitter traced the source to the carbon dioxide detector with a low battery.

Not only did our sitter promptly replace the battery at one house after ensuring a safe environment, but removed the battery at another house to eliminate the source of stress for the cats.

Your pets deserve the best care, and our team is committed to providing that extra level of attention and dedication. Trust us to keep your pets calm, happy, and safe under our watchful care.