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7 activities for a mindful dog

Is your dog a tad hyperactive? Has he become disobedient, disinterested or even stressed? Perhaps he’s bored or unable to satisfy his natural instincts? It’s important that your dog is physically and mentally challenged on a regular basis. The activities below are guaranteed to leave your four-legged friend thoroughly tired and content. They’ll also increase the bond between you and your dog, and you’ll become a more 'mindful' dog owner or dog sitter in the process.


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7 ways to please your cat

Cats tend to be regarded as 'low-maintenance' pets that require little time and attention. As a result, their basic needs and natural desires are often overlooked, and they forget how to be 'cats'. Our 7 simple tips below will improve life for your little fur ball and soon have them purring away with happiness!

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My dog has separation anxiety. What should I do?

Contemplating getting a pet and unsure whether 2 tails are better than 1? Or perhaps you’ve already got a furry companion and are wondering if he might benefit from a playmate? Are single pets ‘lonely’ or is being the sole object of your affection actually good for them? This article will help you to determine whether to take on one or more pets.

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What's better: one pet or two?

Contemplating getting a pet and unsure whether 2 tails are better than 1? Or perhaps you’ve already got a furry companion and are wondering if he might benefit from a playmate? Are single pets ‘lonely’ or is being the sole object of your affection actually good for them? This article will help you to determine whether to take on one or more pets.

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How often should I walk my dog?

Everyone knows that dogs require plenty of regular exercise. But how often should you walk your dog exactly and for how long? In this article, you’ll learn how much time you need to devote to your dog’s favourite pastime and what to expect from your dog sitting or dog walking service.

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Introducing cat and dog in 7 steps

Cats and dogs appear to be natural enemies and can sometimes get hostile. Nevertheless, well-socialised cats and dogs can live together in harmony and ultimately become good friends. Do you wish to home a dog with a resident cat or vice versa? Then you must ensure a safe and responsible introduction between your furry companions.

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Calling your dog: this is how he'll come to you

The 'here' or 'come' command is essential, as it can extract your dog from dangerous situations. However, it seems that some dogs simply don’t want to listen. So, why do some dogs refuse to come when called? And how can you ensure that your (pet sitting) dog always comes on command?

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Meeting your pet sitter: here's what to discuss during a meet & greet

If you are searching for a pet sitter, then you’ll naturally prefer someone you feel comfortable leaving your beloved pet with. It’s important, therefore, to get along great with your sitter. But how can you be sure of that all-important 'click' when booking a pet sitter via Pawshake? You'll find out during the meet & greet. Here are the do's and don't of an effective meet & greet.

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Pet-proofing your house: preventing accidents and damage

If a new pet comes into your life or if a dog comes to visit you, it's important that your home is a safe place for the pet and that you know what your house-rules are. We share 2 convenient checklists to prepare your home for the arrival of a pet - that will keep the pet safe and prevent damage to your property

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Travelling with your dog: tips for a pet-friendly vacation

There's nothing better than spending holidays together with your pet. But travelling should not only be fun for you as a pet owner, it's also important that your dog feels comfortable and enjoys himself. That is why Pawshake gives you the most important tips for a pet-friendly trip with your dog.

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Moulting: Why does my dog shed so much hair?

It seems like it will never end: your dog takes off his winter coat and you find hair all over the place. Now that the temperatures are rising, the shedding seems worse than ever. How does 'moulting' work exactly? What do you need to do in order to make things as comfortable as possible for your dog, and what should you avoid doing?

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Selling yourself as a pet sitter

If you are a pet sitter, trust and responsibility are key. It's important that owners can tell that you are the person with whom their pet is in good hands. But how do you let the world see that you are a reliable sitter? How do you increase the likelihood that pet owners (continue to) book you? One of the most important things that comes with excellent service is clear communication. Read our tips on how to sell yourself as a pet sitter and how to communicate with pet owners.

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Whining cats 3 tips for annoying behaviour.

Cats can sometimes show really intrusive behavior: meowing, begging or throwing your stuff on the floor. Where does this remarkable behavior come from? Why do cats throw random stuff on the floor and how can you stop the begging behavior? Also important to discuss with your cat sitter: here are our 3 tips for whining cats.

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Missing dog? How to find a lost pet quickly

It is a worry that's always in the back of your mind: what if your dog or cat goes missing? Especially if you plan to bring your pet to a sitter for home boarding or doggy daycare, you might be worried: what happens if your furry friend suddenly takes off? The good news is that you can do a lot to prevent your pet from getting lost in the first place. And what if your pet does get lost? Then we have an action plan ready for you to bring your pet home very fast. Here are our most important tips for pet owners and pet sitters

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Why do dogs smell?

Yes, some dogs can smell a bit funny. In general, a healthy dog doesn't smell so bad. But if your dog's odour is starting to get really unpleasant, that might be a sign that something's wrong. In this article, we share with you everything about that typical dog scent and what to do if your dog gets a bit stinky.


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Pet sitting rates: how much should I charge as a pet sitter?

If you want to find affordable pet care in your area, you can go to Pawshake to find dedicated pet sitters near you. But then you'll find out that the rates vary per pet sitter. What is a reasonable price for pet sitting? And how do you determine what exactly you should charge for dog boarding or cat sitting?:

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First aid for cats: how to take care of a sick cat

You do everything you can to keep your cat happy and healthy - but at some point, just like us humans, your cat might get sick. Or adventurous cats can sometimes get themselves into trouble and suffer an injury. It's therefore really important that all cat owners and cat sitters can spot symptoms of illness or injury in a cat. What should you as a cat owner or cat sitter do in case of an emergency? How do you perform first aid on a cat? These are our emergency cat care tips:

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How much time do I need for a dog?

How long can a dog stay home alone? If you want to bring a new dog into your home, it is important to know in advance how much time you will need to take care of your dog. Also, if you want to become a dog sitter it's good to ask yourself this important question: how much time do I need to provide a dog what he really needs? With our checklist you will find out!

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Introducing dogs to eachother

Anyone who walks a dog every now and then knows how exciting it can be to meet another dog. Which body language signals should you pay attention to? And how do you ensure that a meeting runs smoothly? With these 5 tips, you can introduce your dog to a new friend in a safe and calm way!

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The ideal pet sitter profile

If you are looking for dog walking services or doggy day care, it is important to choose a sitter that fits your situation perfectly. But what should you look for in a great petsitter profile? How do you make sure that you choose that reliable babysitter that fits your pet perfectly?



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Celebrate the Year of the Dog!

Lunar New Year (also often known as the Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival) is one of the world’s most bright, beautiful and exciting cultural celebrations. And in 2018 we are lucky enough to be entering the Year of the Dog!

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Christmas Dangers - keeping your pet safe.

Christmas Dangers - keeping your pet safe. teaser: Do you celebrate Christmas together with your pets? Awesome! Of course you can enjoy the holidays together, but beware of a few unexpected dangers that could even be life-threatening to your pet. But don't worry: prepare in advance and you will prevent any problems.

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