Blog

Why do cats groom themselves so often?

Jessica
Cats groom their coats on a daily basis and devote almost half their waking hours to this very activity! But what can you learn from this unique cat behaviour? What does this fastidious grooming habit reveal about your cat, and can their primping ever become a problem? Discover all you need to know about cat grooming!
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Why do cats groom themselves so often?

How to be affectionate with your dog – in the right way

Jessica
One of the most important doggy needs is a daily dose of affection. It gives your dog peace of mind, confidence, and a sense of security. When you show your dog you love them, they develop a general sense of well-being, sleep well at night, and feel balanced and self-assured throughout the day. But how do you show your dog love and affection in the right way?
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How to be affectionate with your dog – in the right way

Should you really brush your cat or dog's teeth?

Jessica
Dental care is an essential part of a daily pet routine, but we often forget it. What should you do to keep your cat or dog's teeth healthy, and is tooth brushing really necessary?
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Should you really brush your cat or dog's teeth?

Why does my dog bark?

Jessica
Dogs bark, that we know. But why do some dogs bark more than others? And what should you do if your (doggy day care or dog boarding) dog doesn’t stop barking? Discover all you need to know about why dogs bark + 3 tips on how to break their barking habit.
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Why does my dog bark?

Combining pets with (fulltime) work

Jessica
Can you successfully juggle work and pet duties? And is a full-time job really compatible with responsible dog or cat ownership? Discover our 7 tips for combining work and pets.
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Combining pets with (fulltime) work

Which house plants are poisonous for pets?

Jessica
Many cats and dogs like to nibble on your house plants, particularly indoor cats in search of some fresh greenery. However, some plants are poisonous and can make your pet seriously ill. So, which plants are toxic for your cat or dog, and what are the safe alternatives?
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Which house plants are poisonous for pets?

What’s a good name for your cat or dog?

Jessica
When considering names for your pet, you might be tempted to come up with something super original: a name with which you have a strong personal connection. However, it’s wise to pause for thought before finally settling on a name. In this article, you can read what makes a good name for your cat or dog, and discover some of the most popular pet names.
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What’s a good name for your cat or dog?

7 activities for a mindful dog

Jessica
Is your dog a tad hyperactive? Perhaps they have become disobedient, disinterested or even stressed? Even bored or unable to satisfy 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 mentally engaged and content. This will 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 activities for a mindful dog

7 ways to improve your cat's life

Jessica
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 furry pal, and soon have them purring away with happiness!
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7 ways to improve your cat's life

Dog separation anxiety - what should I do?

Jessica
Dogs not used to being left alone as puppies may develop dog separation anxiety. Learn to recognise the symptoms and address the root cause of the problem.
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Dog separation anxiety - what should I do?

What's better: one pet or two?

Jessica
Contemplating getting a pet and unsure whether two tails are better than one? Or perhaps you’ve already got a furry companion and are wondering if they 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?

How often should I walk my dog?

Jessica
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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How often should I walk my dog?

Introducing cat and dog in 7 steps

Jessica
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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Introducing cat and dog in 7 steps

Calling your dog: How to get your dog to come to you

Jessica
The 'here' or 'come' command is essential, as it can get your dog out of 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 dog always comes on command?
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Calling your dog: How to get your dog to come to you

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

Jessica
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 really well 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'ts when meeting & greeting.
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Meeting your pet sitter: here's what to discuss during a meet & greet

Pet-proofing your house: preventing accidents and damage

Jessica
If a new pet comes into your life or if a dog comes to visit you, it's important that your home is a pet-safe place and that you know your boundaries. We've created 2 convenient checklists to prepare your home for the arrival of a new pet - this will prevent damage to your property and keep the pet safe and sound.
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Pet-proofing your house: preventing accidents and damage

Pimp your profile and start pet sitting!

Jessica
Want to spend your time surrounded by as many pets at possible? Who wouldn't? :-) And it's possible with Pawshake! With a pet sitter profile, you can board pets in your home, or you can visit them in their own home. But how do you find customers? With a lovely and attractive profile, of course. All of you dog people, cat ladies, rabbit lovers and friends of other pets: Keep reading!
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Pimp your profile and start pet sitting!

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

Jessica
There's nothing better than enjoying a holiday with your pet. But traveling should not only be fun for you as a pet owner: your dog should also have a good and comfortable experience. Here are the most important tips to ensure a pet-friendly holiday with your dog.
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Travelling with your dog: tips for a pet-friendly holiday

Selling yourself as a pet sitter

Jessica
If you are a pet sitter, trust and responsibility are key, and pet owners should be able to tell that their pet is in safe hands with you. But how do you let the world see that you are that reliable sitter? How do you increase the likelihood that pet owners will book you? Read our tips on how you sell yourself as a pet sitter and how to communicate with pet owners.
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Selling yourself as a pet sitter

Cheeky cats - 3 tips for annoying behaviour

Jessica
Cats can sometimes show really cheeky behavior: meowing, begging or throwing your stuff on the floor. But why? What makes your cat push objects off tables, and how can you stop the begging and 4am wake-up calls? This is also an important discussion to have with your cat sitter, so they know what to do when caring for your cat. Here are our top 3 tips to minimise cheeky cat behaviour
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Cheeky cats - 3 tips for annoying behaviour

Tips to prevent your pet from going missing

Jessica
It is a risk that is always at in the back of your mind: what if your dog or cat goes missing? This is especially so if you plan to bring your pet to a sitter for home boarding or doggy daycare...you may worry about your furry friend suddenly going on the run. Fortunately, most pets are found and returned to their owner very quickly. And the good news is that you can do a lot to prevent your pet from getting lost in the first place. And if your pet does go missing? We have an action plan ready for you to bring your pet home quickly. Here are our tips for pet owners and pet sitters how to find a lost pet quickly.
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Tips to prevent your pet from going missing

Why do dogs smell?

Jessica
Yes, some dogs can smell a bit, but generally, a healthy dog doesn't smell too bad. But if your dog's odor is starting to get really nasty, that might be a sign that something's wrong. In this article, we share with you everything doggy smell, and what to do if your dog gets a bit stinky.
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Why do dogs smell?

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

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

How much time do I need for a dog?

Jessica
Most dogs love attention and company. Plan the amount of time needed to take care of a dog, what to consider and how to prepare your dog for being alone.
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How much time do I need for a dog?

Introducing dogs to each other

Jessica
Anyone who walks a dog knows how exciting it can be to meet another dog. But what 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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Introducing dogs to each other

What should I look for in a pet sitter?

Jessica
If you are looking for a pet sitter, it is important to choose a one that fits your pet perfectly. But what should you look for in a pet sitter profile? How do you use this to choose a reliable pet sitter that 'clicks' with you and your pet?
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What should I look for in a pet sitter?

How to spend Valentines Day with your pet

Jessica
We think everyone should have a warm and fuzzy Valentines Day, whatever your relationship status – and it’s even more fun if your pet can be a part of your day.
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How to spend Valentines Day with your pet

Celebrate the Year of the Dog!

Jessica
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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Celebrate the Year of the Dog!

Protect your pet from the paralysis tick

Jessica
The paralysis tick is responsible for the death and illness of thousands of pets each year. So what can you do to make sure your pet is safe?
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Protect your pet from the paralysis tick

Christmas Dangers - keeping your pet safe.

Jessica
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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Christmas Dangers - keeping your pet safe.