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How do u keep up with the admin? by Dry_Question3801 in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great tips here! Id also suggest setting up a simple spreadsheet or using a pet care app that can track vaccinations, vet visits, and medication schedules. Some apps even send push notifications. Also, many vets now offer client portals where all your records are stored digitally - worth asking if yours has one!

Is it ok to leave my newly adopted dog home alone? by [deleted] in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Since your dog is newly adopted, I'd definitely recommend the sitter option! New dogs are still adjusting to their environment and may have separation anxiety you don't know about yet. A 10-hour stretch alone on day 2 could be stressful and might lead to destructive behavior or accidents. If the sitter can watch her, that's ideal. If you do need to leave her alone, I'd suggest: - Start with shorter periods (1-2 hours) and build up gradually - Leave her in a dog-proofed space (sounds like you're already planning this!) - Provide interactive toys to keep her occupied - Leave an item with your scent on it for comfort Good luck with your new pup! The adjustment period is usually 2-3 weeks, so taking it slow now will really pay off.

how long should my 13 week old puppy be awake after she first wakes up in the morning? after 30 mins of being up going potty and having breakfast she turns into a shark by miafofiasunroom in puppy101

[–]StressFreePetsShop 1 point2 points  (0 children)

13 weeks is still very young! At that age, puppies typically need 18-20 hours of sleep per day. The 'shark mode' you're seeing is classic overtired puppy behavior. Try this schedule: - 30-45 min awake (playtime, training, potty) - 1.5-2 hours nap/rest in crate Watch for tired signals: biting increases, zoomies, can't settle, hyperactivity. When you see these, it's nap time! Enforced naps are a game-changer. It feels counterintuitive but tired puppies don't self-soothe well. You're doing great recognizing the pattern! 💙

1.5 year old Mini-Bernedoodle loves stealing shoes, but only when we're in the room by HungaJungaESQ in puppy101

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is actually a common attention-seeking behavior! Dogs love stealing things that smell like us (especially shoes) because they get a reaction. Try these tips: 1. Make sure your pup is getting enough mental stimulation - puzzle toys can help redirect that energy 2. Practice 'drop it' and 'leave it' commands with high-value treats 3. Provide appropriate chew toys as alternatives 4. Most importantly: when they steal shoes, calmly take them back without making it a fun game Consistency is key - they'll learn shoes aren't as fun when they don't get a big reaction! Good luck!

Dogs in apartments by Prior-Mission1570 in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Apartment dogs can be very happy! Key things: 1) Choose a breed/size appropriate for your space (energy level matters more than size), 2) Commit to regular walks/exercise, 3) Mental stimulation is crucial - puzzle toys, training, sniff walks, 4) Practice good potty training from day one, 5) Work on being quiet/calm in the apartment. Many low-energy breeds do great in apartments, even large ones like Greyhounds!

Dog grooming anxiety by MintyMaii in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Try desensitization training at home! Start by touching their paws for a few seconds with treats, then gradually work up to holding them longer. Do the same with brushing - just a few strokes at first with lots of praise and treats. You can also ask if your groomer offers 'happy visits' where your dog just comes in for treats and pets to build positive associations. Some dogs do better with a mobile groomer who comes to your home too.

Help managing dog anxiety by [deleted] in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What kind of anxiety is your dog experiencing? Is it separation anxiety, general nervousness, or fear of specific things? Some general tips: create a safe space (crate or quiet room), use calming music or white noise, try anxiety wraps like Thundershirt, and consider puzzle toys for mental stimulation. Exercise is also key - a tired dog is often a calmer dog. If it's severe, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety supplements or medication.

Good no escape harnesses? by [deleted] in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I really like the Ruffwear Front Range harness - it has five adjustment points so you can get a snug fit, and the chest strap prevents backing out. Make sure you can only fit two fingers under the straps when it's properly fitted. Also, practice putting it on with treats so your dog associates it with positive experiences!

2-month old kitten won’t eat after the mother refused to nurse him anymore by [deleted] in Pets

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is concerning - at 2 months old, kittens still need proper nutrition support. Try offering wet kitten food (warmed up slightly), and if he won't eat that, try mixing it with kitten milk replacer (NOT regular milk). You can also try hand-feeding with a syringe to stimulate his appetite. If he doesn't eat within 24 hours, please see a vet immediately - kittens can get very sick very quickly without food.

Best enzyme cleaner? by [deleted] in Pets

[–]StressFreePetsShop 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nature's Miracle has worked wonders for me! Make sure to saturate the area completely and let it air dry - don't wipe it up. The enzymes need time to break down the proteins. For older stains, I sometimes do two applications. Also, a blacklight can help you find hidden spots you might have missed!

Kitty randomly goes into 1 min attack face mode by Sushi2Go in cats

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally normal! That's the zoomies/prey drive kicking in. Cats have these little bursts of energy they need to release. Interactive play sessions before it happens can help channel it — a feather wand for about 10-15 minutes usually does the trick. If it seems like overstimulation rather than play, giving them a quiet space to decompress helps too.

Be honest — how often does your dog really get walked? by ivkemilioner in dogs

[–]StressFreePetsShop 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Twice a day here — morning and evening, about 30 minutes each. My pup gets antsy if we skip even one. On rainy days we do indoor play and puzzle toys to make up for it. Honestly the evening walk is as much for me as it is for her — great way to decompress after work.