Wagtastic Pet Care LLC

09/02/2024

Wagtastic Pet Care was started in February 2015. This year makes 9 years in business. Thank you to my clients for allowing me to care for your pets.

10/12/2023

Providing pet sitting, dog walking and positive reinforcement dog training and behavior modification services in Boca Raton.

08/11/2023

08/09/2023

Enjoy a 10% discount on all 2-hour pet sitting and dog walking visits for the month of September. 🐶🐱

For current clients: Simply email or send me a text to secure your spot.

New clients: Head over to wagtasticpetcare.com, navigate to the 'Contact Us' section, and fill out the form to get started.

05/08/2023

Cooking for my cats.

Cooking a meat-based diet with moisture-rich ingredients is essential for the health and well-being of your cats. It's important to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients for their specific dietary needs.

16/07/2023

🐾 Helping your dog with resource guarding 🐾

💡 Dogs naturally protect their most treasured possessions, like food, toys, and sleeping areas. But what happens when their guarding instincts become a bit too intense? 🤔

🔒 Tip 1: Manage and Control the Environment
Prevention is key. Keep valuable resources out of reach or restrict access when your pup is unsupervised. By managing the situation, you'll minimize the chance of incidents that could escalate the problem.

🎯 Tip 2: Start Small with Low-Value Resources
Build a foundation of positive reinforcement by beginning with items your dog values less, such as a low-value toy or a less desirable treat. This approach helps your dog understand that good things happen when they're not guarding.

🍗 Tip 3: Create a Positive Association
When your dog is near a guarded item, shower them with high-value treats from a distance, without directly approaching or taking the object. They'll soon associate your presence with delightful surprises.

💰 Tip 4: Teach the Art of Trading
Show them a yummy treat and offer it as a trade for the coveted item. Once they drop or release it, shower them with praise and treat rewards. Gradually level up the value of the items you use for trading.

📏 Tip 5: Gradually Close the Gap
With patience and persistence, work on reducing the distance between you and your dog while they have a guarded resource. Take small steps forward and immediately reward their calm behavior with tasty treats. Step by step, you'll decrease the space without triggering their guard mode.

🔠 Tip 6: Introduce the Cue Word
Introduce a cue like "Drop" to signal that it's time to let go of the item. Combine the cue with a tasty reward during trading exercises, and remember to reinforce this behavior consistently.

🔄 Tip 7: Consistency is the Key
Keep up the good work and maintain a consistent training routine. Patience is vital. Regularly practice the exercises, gradually working with higher-value items, and vary the res

19/06/2023

𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐱𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲
Separation anxiety is a common issue in dogs that can lead to distressing experiences for both the dog and its owner. Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit destructive behaviors, excessive barking, and other signs of distress when left alone.

𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Gradual desensitization is a technique that helps dogs become accustomed to being alone by gradually increasing the duration of their alone time. Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods, such as a few minutes, and gradually extend the duration over several weeks. This process should be done at a pace that is comfortable for your dog, ensuring they remain calm and relaxed throughout the process. Consider using interactive toys or treat-dispensing puzzles to keep your dog engaged and distracted during alone time.

𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫-𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠:
Counter-conditioning involves changing your dog's emotional response to being alone by associating it with positive experiences. Create a positive association by providing special treats or engaging in a favorite activity exclusively when you leave the house. For instance, give your dog a puzzle toy filled with treats only when you're about to leave. This helps shift their focus from your departure to the enjoyable activity, reducing anxiety.

𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
An enriched environment can alleviate separation anxiety by keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated. Provide toys, such as chew toys or puzzle toys, to keep them engaged during alone time. Consider leaving a piece of clothing with your scent on it, as your scent can provide comfort in your absence.

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
Training your dog to associate positive behaviors with being alone can be highly beneficial in managing separation anxiety. Teach them commands such as "stay" or "settle," rewarding them with treats and praise for calm behavior. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog during training sessions, helping them understand that being apart is not a cause for distress. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.

𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞:
Make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental enrichment.(dog puzzles, Kongs,lick mats,etc)

19/06/2023

𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐦𝐚 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬
Just as humans can experience trauma, dogs can also be subjected to various distressing situations that deeply affect their emotional and psychological states. These experiences can trigger fear, anxiety, and a range of negative emotions sometimes including aggression.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐦𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐠𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
One key aspect to understand is that aggression in traumatized dogs is often a result of fear and self-preservation. Trauma can disrupt a dog's sense of safety and trust, leading to an increased likelihood of reactive or defensive behaviors when faced with perceived threats or triggers. This aggression serves as a coping mechanism, as the dog tries to protect itself from potential harm.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧
Trauma has a profound impact on the structure and function of the brain, both in humans and dogs. Studies have revealed that traumatic experiences can cause significant alterations in the dog's brain.

One key region affected is the amygdala, responsible for processing emotions and fear responses. Trauma can lead to an overactive or hypersensitive amygdala, resulting in heightened fear and anxiety responses. This hyperarousal can manifest as aggression when the dog perceives a threat, real or imagined.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭.
Trainers will often involve behavior modification techniques, positive reinforcement training, and desensitization exercises. Creating a safe and structured environment, coupled with consistent and patient training, can help the dog rebuild its confidence and learn alternative ways to cope with stress and fear.

*𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧.

10/06/2023

Playing with your cat is important for several reasons:

Physical exercise: Cats, just like humans, need physical exercise to stay healthy and maintain a proper weight. Regular play sessions help them burn off excess energy and prevent obesity-related health issues.

Mental stimulation: Cats are curious and intelligent animals that need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and associated behavioral problems. Playtime engages their natural hunting instincts and provides mental exercise. It encourages problem-solving, improves their cognitive skills, and keeps their minds sharp and active.

Bonding and socialization: Playing with your cat strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Interactive play sessions allow you to spend quality time together and build trust. It also helps your cat associate positive experiences with you and creates a deeper connection.

Stress relief: Play is a good stress reliever for cats. It allows them to release pent-up energy and frustration, promoting a sense of well-being. Regular play sessions can help reduce anxiety, destructive behaviors, and other stress-related problems. It can also provide an outlet for any excess energy your cat may have, leading to a more relaxed and contented pet.

16/05/2023

Wagtastic Pet Care offers in Boca Raton:
🐱Petting sitting
🐕‍🦺Dog walking
🐾 Basic obedience training and Puppy Pre-K

Call/text 561-880-7542

08/05/2023

Providing cat sitting in Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach.

Call/text 561-880-7542 or visit wagtasticpetcare.com for more information.

30/04/2023

I was speaking with someone who told me they would get frustrated because their dog would sit on the walk and watch people instead of walking. People would ask her who's walking who?

It's important to remember that walks are not just for exercise, but also for mental stimulation and enrichment for our dogs. Dogs love to explore and sniff their surroundings, which is a natural behavior for them.

Allowing your dog to take their time and explore during walks can also help reduce their anxiety and stress levels. It's important to remember that dogs have their own personalities, preferences, and individual needs, so it's essential to adapt to their needs and provide them with the opportunity to enjoy their time outdoors.

Dogs who are often cooped up inside can easily become bored and frustrated, so allowing them to have some freedom during walks can help alleviate these feelings. Providing them with daily opportunities to explore and sniff can also improve their overall behavior and prevent destructive behavior in the home.

So, if your dog wants to people watch most of the walk,constantly stop and smell everything or go a different way than you want to walk,it's okay.

21/04/2023

TNR stands for Trap-Neuter-Return. If you see a cat outside(that is not someone's pet) that doesn't have an ear notch more than likely they have not been spayed or neutered. It is important to get them spayed or neutered.

There are so many cats that need help in South Florida so preventing more kittens from being born outside helps with this.

18/04/2023

🐾For adoption🐾

Mickey is a Hemingway kitty with extra toes. He's almost a year old. He loves people and follows his fosters around the house. He's great with other cats

If you're interested in adopting him,please go to this website and fill out the adoption form https://trulyallcats.org/

16/04/2023

✋Stop and start walking
When your dog starts pulling, stop walking immediately and wait for them to come back to your side. As soon as they do, start walking again and reward them for staying by your side. This will teach your dog that pulling does not get them where they want to go and that walking politely is the best way to get to their destination.

👍Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when it comes to training dogs. Whenever your dog walks nicely on a leash, reward them with treats or praise. This will encourage them to repeat the behavior and make walking more enjoyable for both of you.

😌Be patient
Training your dog to walk politely on a leash takes time and patience. Don't get frustrated if your dog doesn't learn right away, and be very consistent with your training.

Call/text 561-880-7542 for more information.

07/04/2023

A tip to help/prevent food aggression in dogs.

🍲Changing a dog's association with people by its food bowl can be an effective way to reduce food aggression.

➕ By adding something that the dog really enjoys to its bowl every time you're near it like a high value treat, chicken,etc you can teach the dog to associate your presence with good things instead of feeling threatened or defensive.

🐾Consistency is key, and it's important to make sure that everyone in the household is on board with the training.

⚠️It's also important to note that while this approach can be effective, it may not work for every dog or every situation. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist

04/04/2023

❌Adversive training tools like prong collars, choke collars, citronella spray collars, shock collars, and invisible fence collars can do more harm than good in dog training.

😕These tools rely on punishment to discourage unwanted behavior, but they can also cause physical and psychological harm to the dog. For example, prong and choke collars can cause pain and injury. Citronella spray collars and shock collars can also be painful and stressful for dogs, and may lead to fear and anxiety.

🐾Furthermore, these tools do not address the underlying causes of the unwanted behavior, and may even exacerbate the problem by creating fear and mistrust in the dog.

🩷Positive reinforcement training, on the other hand, focuses on rewarding desired behavior and building a strong bond of trust and communication between the dog and the trainer. This approach has been shown to be effective in training dogs of all ages and breeds, and is a humane and ethical way to teach dogs good behavior.

03/04/2023

🐕The importance of early socialization in puppies🐕

⚠️Early socialization is crucial for puppies to develop into well-adjusted and well-behaved adult dogs.

😨Puppies that are not properly socialized may develop behavior problems such as fear, anxiety, and aggression. They may become easily stressed or frightened in new situations, and may have difficulty interacting with other dogs or people.

🐕‍🦺By socializing your puppy early on, you can help prevent these problems from occurring. This can involve exposing your puppy to new experiences, people, and animals in a controlled and positive way. For example, you can take your puppy to puppy classes, invite friends and family over to meet your puppy, and expose your puppy to different sights and sounds.

🫶It's important to note that socialization should always be done in a positive and safe way. You should never force your puppy into a situation that makes them uncomfortable or frightened.

🩷All these puppies are available for adoption through Good Karma Pet Rescue.
Click here to fill out an adoption application ➡️ https://gkarma.wufoo.com/forms/good-karma-pet-rescue-dog-adoption-screening/

01/04/2023

How to help dogs that are reactive to other dogs on walks.

🐾Most dogs are reactive on a leash towards other dogs because of fear.Avoid places where there are likely to be a lot of dogs around, such as dog parks or busy streets.

🐕‍🦺To train your dog to have a different response to other dogs, you can try counter-conditioning and desensitization techniques. This involves gradually exposing your dog to other dogs from a distance and rewarding them for calm behavior with high value treats and praise. Start with a distance that your dog can handle without reacting and slowly decrease the distance over time as your dog becomes more comfortable.

🐕You can also try engaging your dog in activities that require focus and attention, such as playing games or practicing obedience commands, when other dogs are nearby. This can help keep their attention away from the other dog and towards you.

⌚Remember, training a reactive dog takes time and patience. It is important to remain calm and consistent in your training efforts.

21/03/2023

How to help a rescue dog settle into your house after you adopted it:

Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routines, so it's important to establish a consistent routine for feeding, exercise, and playtime. This will help your new dog feel more secure and comfortable in their new environment.

Give them a safe space: Create a designated safe space for your new dog, such as a crate or a quiet room where they can retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. Make sure they have access to water, food, and a comfortable bed.

Be patient and consistent: It may take some time for your new dog to adjust to their new surroundings, so be patient and consistent with your training and interactions. Use positive reinforcement techniques and reward good behavior.

Socialize them gradually: It's important to socialize your new dog, but do it gradually and in a controlled environment. Start with short walks in quiet areas, and gradually increase the length and intensity of the walks as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Get professional help if needed: If your new dog is exhibiting problematic behaviors or is having difficulty adjusting, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can help you develop a personalized training plan to address your dog's specific needs.

07/03/2023

Providing pet sitting,dog walking and dog training in Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach

24/02/2023

Play time is important for cats. It helps with boredom, relieves stress, provides mental stimulation,helps you bond with the cat and gives your cat exercise.

18/02/2023

This cat really needs a home. Her name is Magic. They are about to bulldoze the property she is living at. If you can help please message me.

15/02/2023

February 2023 is 8 years in business. Thank you for allowing me to care for your pets.