Friday, June 17, 2011

Take Your Dog to Work Day - June 24th North Andover

Pet Sitters International is celebrating their 13th year of “Take Your Dog to Work Day”.   On Friday June 24, 2011 businesses, animal shelters and pet-care professionals from around the world will work together to better the lives of shelter dogs everywhere.  Thousands of businesses will open their doors to employees’ furry, four-legged friends on this day in celebration of the great companions dogs make and to promote pet adoption.
What a better way to promote adoption and of course “show off” your pooch to all your colleagues.  They hear the stories, see the pictures, endless entries on your Facebook page, and engage in your tweets so why not show everyone the real thing.  Bring your Dog to Work!
Not to mention, this is a amazing way to promote adoption.  People who are interested in adding a dog to their family will have the opportunity to meet your dog.    Our shelters are packed with homeless animals and maybe a day like this will help encourage future dog owners to consider saving a life and adopt.  
North Andover businesses:  Try this,  allow your employees to bring their dogs to work on June 24th.  
Statistics  show  humans blood pressure and stress levels go down when they are comforted by their family pets.  We all know how stressful work can be so why not create a fun filled Friday and organize this day at your company.  Think of all the activities you can do, play dates at lunch time,  ball on the company front lawn,  doggie  ice cream treat snack break, there are just tons of things you can do,  be creative and have fun with it !
As for me, I already have the best job and take all of YOUR dogs to work with me EVERYDAY!!
For additional information please visit this website:  http://www.takeyourdog.com/

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Why Vaccinate? Social Opportunities for your Dog

I just read our proposed Town Article regarding Dog Vaccination requirements which will be voted on by the residents of North Andover at our annual town meeting.  For some people this is a very sensitive issue and they have chosen not to vaccinate their dogs.  For others they are very proactive and faithfully obtain all vaccinations needed.  And there are a few that do this just because their Vet told them they need to have this done.

Is it just another money maker for the pet industry?   Actually no it is not.  It really isn’t.   North Andover still is considered a rural community.  However with all the developments and building some of our wildlife is simply displaced.   When wild animals become homeless, lost, or confused they are going to do what nature has taught them to do.  Defend!   Wild animals carry several different diseases and if your animal gets bit the disease will be transmitted.  Some may say, my dog is always on leash or in our fenced in backyard.   Well you just never know, an animal with rabies will attack, they are sick, they are ill, they are scared.  It doesn’t matter how cautious you are, it can happen.  

But my reason for blogging about this is not just to focus on the requirement importance but the SOCIAL aspect this has on your pet.

With my pet care business I require all animals to be up to date on their vaccinations. Why? Because when your dog is in my care it is my responsibility to keep your animal safe.  Vaccinating your dog is just one more responsible way and a preventive measure to keep your dog healthy.

I want to be able to walk your dog, I want your dog to have a nice day out on the trails, and I love bringing your dog around other dogs for play dates.   Unfortunately, if your dog isn’t vaccinated I am unable to allow your dog around others.  Because what if?  What if your dog was a carrier of disease, some stay dormant for years and you may not even know your dog is infected.   I can’t have your dog around the others.  I am responsible for all the animals in my care.

Also, as a registered business, I carry an insurance policy.  My insurance will not cover an animal that is not vaccinated.   Once again, denying your animal play time or a daily dog walk.  What if you wanted to go on vacation?  All legit boarding facilities require your dog to be up to date on on their vaccinations.
Or how about bringing your dog to dog daycare?  Yes, once again they require your dog to be vaccinated.  And what about the Town of North Andover?  Well, the town requires all dogs to obtain a dog license. To get your dog license you must show proof of vaccinations.

Mental stability, social activity and exercise are all just as important for the health & wellness of dog as a balanced diet.   There has been no significant proof by the American Veterinarian Association proving vaccinating your dog is dangerous.   Therefore,  I encourage you all to have your dog vaccinated.  Go throw a ball and play with the neighbor’s dog too! Remember a health dog is a happy dog...social activity creates happiness and enjoyable memories.