7 Ways to Make the Holidays Safer for Pets

"​Nothing can spoil holiday cheer like an emergency visit to a veterinary clinic. These seven tips can help prevent a holiday disaster with your pets." That's why we're sharing an article from the AVMA to help you prepare and be aware of things that can cause issues for your pets, to keep this year's holiday celebration happy and safe for everyone!

Click here to learn seven tips to help make the holidays safer for your pet! To learn more about our professional dog walking, farm sitting and pet sitting services visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Top 10 Tips to Prepare Your Horse Farm for Winter

Even though the official first day of winter hasn't happened yet winter has begun and it's important to make sure that you have prepped your farm, no matter the size, for the long few months of cold ahead. We love our farm clients and want to help make this winter as easy as possible! In order to do that we are sharing this article from Farm Bureau Financial Services entitled 'Top 10 Tips to Prepare Your Farm for Winter.'

To learn more about our services visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

CHILLY DAWG! CARING FOR YOUR DOG THIS WINTER

Good morning,

Today we are sharing an article from Dogtrailia entitled 'Chilly Dawg! Caring for your dog this winter' which talks about some tips for keeping your pet healthy as the temperatures begin to drop.

"For us dog owners –  winter’s a time when our beloved babies need a little extra care. Despite the fact our domestic dogs have all evolved from wolves – it certainly doesn’t mean that they’re immune to the cold the way wolves are. In fact, hypothermia among dogs is more common than you’d think. Contrary to popular belief – a fur coat does not mean your dog is properly protected from the winter climate. Many breeds have lovely plush coats to touch and look at –  that are actually very poor insulators against the cold."

To learn more about some tips for keeping your dog warm this winter, like feeding them more protein in their diet, visit the article link here!  If you are in the Middleburg, Virginia or surrounding area and want some extra help caring for your pets this winter, give us a call!  Call or Text: 703-951-7387 or visit us online at: www.hoofsandwoofspets.com.

Things Your Dog is Thankful For

Thanksgiving is only a few days away and while we are all thankful for our pets we know that our pets are also thankful to us! Here are five fun suggestions of thanks from our pets, shared from a blog on Bella's House Sitting. Enjoy!

1.) Snuggles and Pets – I like way we cuddle in the bed or on the couch and the way you hold my head when you’re watching TV.  It doesn’t get much better than a warm lap and a soft blanket basked in the soft glow of the TV.  It makes happy when you scratch that special place behind my ear, oh yeah just like that!  It’s perfect.  Snuggling with you is really the best part of the day.

2.) Treats under the table – Now you may think I’m saying this one just to set you up for some Thanksgiving treats, but that’s not it at all (okay, well, maybe just a little bit).  But, really, I do love it when you let me sample your food!  I feel like a part of the family when I get to try what you’re eating and feel marvelous when you think of me at dinner time.

3.) Walks and Playtime – Sometimes all those treats at the table catch up with us and we need some exercise.  I love it when you take time out of our busy days to walk with me.  What I love even more is playing catch and tug a war with you.

4.) Car rides – Car rides with you are the best!  I love sticking my head out of the window and letting the breeze flow.  It’s even better when we’re taking a ride to the park where we can walk and play!

5,) Belly Rubs – Yeah yeah yeah, this one is my favorite.  I absolutely love it when I flop on by back and you rub and pat my belly.  It’s so comforting and I always feel like the most loved pup in the world.  It makes my day to know that you love me too!

If you are looking for a reliable, professional pet sitter then feel free to give us a call! Learn more about our midday visits and farm services at: www.hoofsandwoofspets.com

Black Friday Deals For Pets!

We all know that Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away and that means time spent with family, friends and of course our pets! It also means another Black Friday is coming and the potential to save is at hand! For those of you who love a great deal, especially when buying items for your pets, we are sharing with you some Black Friday 2017 pet sale items so you can plan your shopping accordingly! Have fun!

https://blackfriday.com/categories/pets 

Going away to shop for Black Friday? Need someone to walk your pet while you are gone that day? Contact us to learn more about our pet sitting services and our holiday hours at, www.hoofsandwoofspets.com. 

Ask the Vet: Fruits and Veggies for Horses

Good afternoon,

Today's blog answers the question "Q: I love giving my horse special treats, so I was wondering what kind of fruits and vegetables are safe to feed your horse?" You might think you know what is safe to give your four-legged love, but you want to be sure to avoid other complications from upset digestive systems! To learn more in a quick read visit the article here: http://www.horsechannel.com/horse-experts/horse-vet-advice/2017/fruits-and-veggies-for-horses.aspx

Copyright: DiLor

Want to learn more about us? Hoofs and Woofs offers full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.  At Hoofs and Woofs, we know that our animals are a part of our family, and we are dedicated to providing excellent service for peace of mind of pet parents! Take a look at our site for more information: www.hoofsandwoofspets.com

Halloween Safety Tips

Tomorrow is Halloween!! We are excited however it's important to maintain a safe holiday environment for your pets! "Halloween can be the spookiest night of the year, but keeping your pets safe doesn’t have to be tricky. The ASPCA recommends taking these simple, common sense precautions to keep your pet happy and healthy all the way to November 1."

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/halloween-safety-tips

Preparing Your Horse for Winter

Good afternoon pet lovers,

Believe it or not winter will be here before you know it. Today's article is for our farm and equestrian clients. We know that running a farm of any size, takes a lot of work. This article from Smartpak entitled 'Preparing Your Horse for Winter' talks about some of the four most important things to prepare for as winter approaches: Nutrition, Exercise, Blanketing & Health. Click on the article link above to learn more. And if you're looking for a professional to help take care of your horses this winter while you have to be away, contact us today! http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Holidays Are Coming Up! Book Now!

Good afternoon pet lovers!

As you know we offer many services to our clients, including overnight visits during holidays! With just a $5-$10 holiday surcharge you can travel to visit friends and family and know that your beloved pets are safe and happy at home with one of our caring sitters. With October halfway over and Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah right around the corner, now is the time to start planning your holiday pet sitting schedule!

To learn more about our professional pet sitting services in Middleburg, VA or to schedule your initial consultation, visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Did you know? Licensed, Bonded, and Insured!

Good afternoon pet lovers!

Did you know that here at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Sitting we take our jobs very seriously and are licensed, bonded and insured? What does that mean exactly? Well, for you it means that you can rest easy knowing that your pets are in the safe hands of reliable professionals. But for others interested in the business here is a breakdown of each term, according to https://wallethacks.com/licensed-bonded-insured/.  If you can find relief in knowing that we are fully covered, please call us today at: #703-951-7387

"What does it mean to be Licensed?
If you've ever hired someone to do work, chances are you've seen these words - what does it really mean to be licensed, bonded, and insured? Find out and why it's VERY important!For some professions, you need to get a license before you can perform that function.

For example, Cosmetology is the study of beauty treatments – skin, hair, cosmetics, manicure/pedicures, waxing, laser treatments, etc. If you've ever gotten a haircut, chances are you've seen the license prominently framed on the shelf.

That's because every state requires a license in part because there are often dangerous chemicals involved in cosmetology. My simple haircut requires just a trimmer, comb, and a pair of scissors but there are a lot of chemicals involved in other treatments (tons of chemicals when you talk about hair smoothing, nails, perms).

With most licenses, you are required to complete a certain number of training hours, pass a test, and maintain that training. In many cases, you have to remain affiliated with a licensed company (so for a hairdresser, a licensed salon/barbershop) too.

When we recently had some 80′ poplars cut down, we found a licensed tree professional and they had their license number printed on the side of the truck. It's also printed on any materials (including coupons), so you can look them up on their Maryland website. Always look up the license!

Remember, this is not an indication of expertise (we've all had bad haircuts!). This is just a signal that they've done the minimum necessary to work in that profession in the state you're in.

What does it mean to be Bonded?
Bonded means that there's a bonding company that has money set aside for claims against the company or individual. This is typically required by the government as part of the licensing process.

The company will buy a bond, the money that's set aside, from a surety bond company because the state requires it. The company buying the bond is known as the principal, the surety is the bond company that backs the bond with a line of credit, and the obligee is the government (or entity that requires it).

The bond is meant to protect the consumer from the actions of the principal. It's different from insurance which protects the company.

For example, if you hired a cleaning company to come into your house and a worker damages something in the house, you would file a claim against the company. If the company fails to pay a valid claim, the bond would step in. From there, the surety would collect from the company – this protects the consumer by having this money set aside and not in full control of the company.

When an individual is bonded, it means something different. This is a thing for within a company and as a consumer this doesn't matter to you. This type of bond is known as a fidelity bond and it's a policy taken out by the company to protect it from its employees. This is often the case with employees that may deal with large sums of money. The company bonds the employee and if something were to happen, such as a theft, the bond would protect the employer from financial loss.

What does it mean to be Insured?
This is the easiest one to understand – it means they have insurance! This protects the company from things that might happen on the job – like if someone gets hurt. If a worker gets hurt on the job and they have insurance, the worker files a claim against that insurance. If the worker is just some random guy you hired to do odd jobs and he gets hurt, then you'll have to file a claim against your homeowner's insurance!

There's no central database of insurance policies, like there is for the license, so the provider will typically offer to give you a copy of their certificate of insurance. You should call the insurance company and confirm the policy matches what the certificate says."

Did You Know: Offering Transportation Services!

Good afternoon all,

Did you know that Hoofs & Woofs offers transportation services for your pets!? What does this mean? This means that if you have a busy work schedule, or inconsistent hours but need important vet care or a routine visit for your pet, we can take your pet to their veterinarian to save you the time and hassle!! Starting at only $20 you can have comfort knowing your pet can make it to their scheduled vet appointment on-time and with a safe, reliable handler.  Or, if you would prefer to be there for the vet appointment but don't have time to handle scheduled grooming appointments, we can do that too!

To learn more about our transportation services and other services we offer, visit http://hoofsandwoofspets.com

7 Farm Animals to Raise For Beginners

Thinking of fencing in your property and starting a small farm? Looking to raise a few new animals to add to your existing herd? Today we are sharing a great and informative article from morningchores.com entitled '7 Farm Animals to Raise (And 1 Not) for Beginners.' This great article goes into the pros and cons of these adorable creatures and talks about things like predator factor and lifespan.  If you are thinking about creating your own little farm paradise at home, then this article is for you! Take a look below and click on the article link to learn more.

https://morningchores.com/best-farm-animals/

If you are in Middleburg, Virginia or surrounding area and looking for a professional, affordable and reliable pet sitter to come take care of your farm animals while you are away, contact us today! We offer full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.  http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Fun Idea: Design and Build A DIY “Palace” For Your Cat!

Well it's Monday and you might be drained from the weekend. So today we are sharing a fun idea for all of our cat clients out there... DIY Cat Palace!! Thanks to this creative article from thebestcatpage.com you can enjoy one artist's idea of her own DIY kitty palace. Learn more by visiting the link here. 

"Well, cat lovers, if you’re the type of kitty-cat mom or dad who goes to cat yoga classes, it’s time for you to step it up and create a palace for your furry little king or queen. We’re not talking about houses made of paper bags or cardboard boxes lined cheap shaggy carpeting — we’re talking full-on luxury. Make a home where your cat can run through endless rooms, hear the echo of her own meows under high ceilings, luxuriate on plush fabrics and get all cray on high-end scratching posts. It is very important to remember that a *true* palace isn’t complete without self portraits, so don’t forget to adorn the walls with oil paintings of your baby."

If you are looking for a reliable and professional pet sitter to come check in on your kitty palace contact us today! hoofsandwoofspets.com

The Year of the Goat!

Today we are sharing an article from the New York Times about why this year seems to be the year of the goat and why goats have become popular house pets. Because at Hoofs & Woofs, we love all pets!

"Goats have long been a popular subject of videos and online memes. There are fainting goats, screaming goats, goats in pajamas and goats with anger issues. There is a virtual game where the sole purpose of a goat is to wreck stuff and even a Tony Award-winning play by Edward Albee, “The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?,” in which the lead character has an affair with the pet in question. But in the past few years, a swell of fun-loving billys has moved offline and into people’s backyards, living rooms and hastily-built barns. Indeed the number of registered Nigerian dwarf goats, beloved for their size and frisky good nature, has increased 7.5 percent in three years, according to the American Goat Society."  To read more of why this is the year of the goat, view the article here!

Here at Hoofs & Woofs we welcome all animals into our pet sitting program...especially goats! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.  At Hoofs and Woofs, we know that our animals are a part of our family, and we are dedicated to providing excellent service for peace of mind of pet parents!

To learn more about our services visit http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Finding Pets Who've Run Away From Shock

After Hurricane Harvey, many people may have lost their pets due to fear and shock from the events that occurred. We want to share this article which gives some more information about why pets run after a storm and how you can take some extra precautions to be reunited with them as safely as possible.

To view the article link click here.  

Solar Eclipse Pet Safety!

Good afternoon!

With just hours left to go for the Solar Eclipse here on the East Coast, we thought we would share this great blog post from neighbor, Walking Wetnoses.  Take a look!


As you have probably heard, in a matter of hours here on the East Coast we will get to experience a solar eclipse...how cool! For those of you who don't know what one is, according to NASA "Sometimes when the moon orbits Earth, it moves between the sun and Earth. When this happens, the moon blocks the light of the sun from reaching Earth. This causes an eclipse of the sun, or solar eclipse. During a solar eclipse, the moon casts a shadow onto Earth." We all have been warned to not look directly into the sun or to wear special protection glasses. However, the big question that seems to be buzzing around is 'what about our pets safety?'

Thanks to the good folks at Chewy.com, they have written up a quick article that we wanted to share with some pet safety tips.

"Dogs and cats, just like us, are at risk for damaging their retinas if staring at the eclipse,” warns Dr. Alison Birken, owner and DVM of Victoria Park Animal Hospital who recommends that all pets stay safely indoors during the hours of the solar eclipse. And Dr. Stephanie Liff, DVM, medical director of Pure Paws Vet Care of Hell’s Kitchen and Clinton Hill points out, “In general, with strange phenomenons in terms of the weather and lunar cycles, we can see strange and anxious behavior increase in our pets.” While animals typically know not to stare directly into the sun, “I recommend putting pets inside for the total solar eclipse,” relays Dr. Liff. “I think it’s always better to be safe than sorry."

To read the full article, click here: https://www.chewy.com/petcentral/total-solar-eclipse-2017-pet-safety-tips/

Remember to keep your pets safe and enjoy the eclipse if you are able to!!

Meet the Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Last But Not Least!

Good morning!

We are wrapping up our 'Meet the Humans Behind Hoofs & Woofs' series today and last but certainly not least, is Lysa & Paul Clemens. Owners of Hoofs & Woofs and animal-lovers to the core!

"Raised in an animal-centric household, Lysa has had cats, dogs and horses (and 1 rat and 2 raccoons) in her family for her entire life. For almost 10 years, Lysa and Paul owned a large horse boarding facility in Middleburg, while they were both working as corporate executives. During that time, they were constantly seeking out dependable and genuinely caring sitters to take care of their furry clan while they were working and traveling. After deciding to escape from corporate America, they knew they wanted to focus on filling a need for busy pet parents to have peace of mind knowing that their fur-kids are happy and well taken care of when they can’t be at home. They assumed ownership of Hoofs and Woofs in 2016."

To learn more about Hoofs & Woofs and how we can serve your pets in the Middleburg area, visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com

Meet the Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Kim C.

We still have a few fabulous pet sitters for you to meet so this week we are continuing our series where you can meet the people behind Hoofs & Woofs professional pet sitting. Up next is Kim C!

“Dog hair, cat hair, clump of hay in my own hair- would not have it any other way. My love for animals began at a very early age. There hasn’t been a time in my life when pets weren’t a “Dog hair, cat hair, clump of hay in my own hair- would not have it any other way. My love for animals began at a very early age. There hasn’t been a time in my life when pets weren’t a part of it. Moving to the area in 2000, I am proud to share a small abode on a local farm with a menagerie of animals. They are my heart and soul and have me wrapped around their paws. As an active volunteer for 3 rescues, I foster and drive transport. One of the most rewarding foster experiences happened 2 years ago, when I fostered for a deployed serviceman and was able to reunite them upon the soldier’s safe return. Being CPR/AED certified for humans, encouraged me to obtain the same knowledge for pets. A voracious reader, avid hiker, “wanna be chef/wine connoisseur,” learning to knit– all activities which include my family members with paws.” - Kim C.

To learn about our other professional pet sitters and our services in Middleburg, Virginia visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Meet The Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Sarah P!

This week we are continuing our series where you can meet the people behind Hoofs & Woofs professional pet sitting. Up next is Sarah P!

Sarah Pemberton is a mom to two awesome kids and a fabulous husband. She has always been an avid animal lover, growing up with dogs and horses all through childhood and into adulthood. She worked in the corporate world before having her children and taking time off to be with them. Sarah lives in Middleburg, Virginia with her five dogs that she hunts with and participates in AKC hunt tests, with the exception of her toy schnauzer who thinks he is in charge of all the big dogs.

To learn about our other professional pet sitters and our services in Middleburg, Virginia visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Meet the Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Tara P!

Today we are continuing our series where you can meet the people behind Hoofs & Woofs professional pet sitting. Up next is Tara P.!

Tara Planeta is a certified equine massage therapist and lives on a farm in the Middleburg area. She loves all animals, and especially enjoys spending time with her German Shepherd dog, cat and Thoroughbred mare. When Ms. Planeta is not caring for animals she is a free lance musician/teacher around the greater DC region.

To learn about our other professional pet sitters and our services in Middleburg, Virginia visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Meet the Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Christine V.

Good afternoon,

Today we are continuing our series where you can meet the people behind Hoofs & Woofs professional pet sitting. Up next is Christine!

Christine Vallejo grew up in Virginia Beach. She had a 10 year career in the criminal justice field then went back to school in 2007 to be come a veterinary technician. Christine worked at Piedmont Equine Practice in The Plains for 3 1/2 years as a vet tech where she had an extensive amount of hands on experience in addition to the knowledge gained through school. She also worked at Marion Dupont Equine Medical Center. Christine currently works at Middleburg Humane as their Equine Rescue Program Manager. In her down time Christine spends her time with her Thoroughbred gelding, Berry and her Kitty.

To learn about our other professional pet sitters and our services in Middleburg, Virginia visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Meet the Humans Behind Our Hoofs & Woofs: Kelly B!

Good afternoon,

Today we are starting a series where you can meet the people behind Hoofs & Woofs professional pet sitting. Up first is Kelly!

Kelly Borkowski has a B.S. in Equine Science from Virginia Interment College. She moved to Middleburg in 2000 to follow her passion with horses as well as all animals. She started pet sitting for friends as soon as she moved to the area so the transition to a full time career came naturally. Kelly competed in Hunters and Jumpers as well as exercised fox hunters and racehorse at the Middleburg Training Center. She lives in Middleburg with two horses and two cats. Kelly is active in animal rescue and quite often has a foster living with her.

To learn more about our other pet sitters and the services we offer, visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Vacation Checklist

Good afternoon,

As professional pet and farm sitters, we have been there and done that! However it's always appreciated when farm owners leave us a checklist or list of instructions to reference while they are away. Of course we go over all of the details before their departure, but having a checklist to reference can be mutually-beneficial. Plus, it can help give owners peace of mind so why not!

On this blog article from 'New to Farm Life' she talks about some things to consider getting ready before taking a lengthy vacation. For example, don't forget to pay you electrical bill if it will fall upon the time you are away. You don't want the lights getting shut off on your farm sitter!

To take a look at other suggestions she had click here.   To learn more about our professional farm sitting and pet sitting services in Middleburg, VA visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Gurgle, Snort, Chirp, and Squeak

Calling all pet lovers!!

Photo credit: YouTube.com

Did you know? We also have extensive experience with fish, pigs, birds, reptiles and rodents!! That's right! We go beyond your typical house and farm pets to specialize in all types of pets. So next time you're heading out of town and want to hire a professional to look after your loved ones, think of us first! You can learn more by visiting our website, www.hoofsandwoofspets.com or by calling/texting 703-951-7387.

Caring for Horses in Extreme Heat

Good afternoon pet lovers!

As you know summer is officially here in Virginia and the temperatures will continue to rise as we go through the month of June. All of our pet sitters and farm sitters here in Middleburg are highly-trained and experienced with taking care of all kinds of animals, especially horses. All horse owners know that horses require a lot of work and preparedness to keep things running smoothly. Here at Hoofs & Woofs our farm sitters are well-equipped to keep your horses healthy this summer while you are away. There are many steps you can take to keep horses cool in the hot summer temps and this article from thehorse.com talks about specific things you can do to help keep your horses cool!

Take a look at the article link here and see if you knew about these tips!

If you are looking for a professional, reliable farm sitter to take care of your horses this summer in Middleburg, VA then contact us today! You can visit us online at http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/ or call/text 703-951-7387.

Scientific Proof Your Dog Loves You With All Their Heart And Nose

"We already know that our pups love us. There is no doubt about that. You can see it in their eyes. You can see it in their smile. And you can see it in their tail-wags."

Photo Credit: Le Journal De Montreal

"But, if you’re like me, you’ve probably found yourself wondering, “How much does my dog love me? What does he get out of our lovin’ relationship?”

Thanks to scientists and their quest to understand the human-dog relationship on a deeper level we now have some more answers on the subject.


According to a recent piece by Mic in partnership with GE, “Not only do dogs seem to love us back, they actually see us as their family. It turns out that dogs rely on humans more than they do their own kind for affection, protection and everything in between.”

To learn more about this great article and how we have scientific proof of our pups love for us. visit the article link here!

If you are in Middleburg, Virginia and are looking for a professional, reliable and LOVING pet sitter then contact us today! Hoofs and Woofs offers full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.  At Hoofs and Woofs, we know that our animals are a part of our family, and we are dedicated to providing excellent service for peace of mind of pet parents!

Visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Hoofs & Woofs Is There FOR YOU!

Going away on vacation? Need to work long hours for a project that's due? Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care provides professional pet care to ensure that all of your animals, big or small, are safe when you are on vacation, at work, or otherwise just need help.

At Hoofs & Woofs we specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time. Whether you have just dogs and cats or a whole farm full of animals, we care for them all!

We are locally owned and operate out of our base in Middleburg, Virginia and service the immediate surrounding areas. We are also fully licensed and insured for your "peace of mind!"

Contact us today at: 703-951-7387 or visit http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Wasps are back with a vengeance and they may pose a risk to your pet

Good afternoon!

Flowers are in bloom and the weather is warm. You might have noticed a lot more insects such as wasps and bees, flying around your yard lately. (I mean, it is spring after-all, right!) Most bee stings in your pet won't cause any issues, and only some mild swelling. However wasps are a different story.
"With the news that the mild winter has caused a boom in insects, vets are warning pet owners to be on their guard for the black and yellow irritants."

As the article mentions, not all stings are problematic. However as a pet owner, it's important to be diligent and on guard against these stings and possible reactions. "In the vast majority of cases, wasp and bee stings are not emergencies. But urgent veterinary help may be needed if your pet is stung in the mouth or neck.

Like humans, cats and dogs can be allergic to insect stings, and, in rare cases, they can go into anaphylactic shock if they don’t receive treatment straight away.

Allergic reactions aren’t always immediate so owners who suspect their pet has been stung should keep a close eye on them for at least 24 hours.

This is especially the case for multiple stings.

Signs that your pet has been stung include pain, redness and swelling while an allergic reaction may cause disorientation, sickness or moving and breathing difficulties."
To read more of the article, visit the link here.

To learn more about our farm sitting services and how our pet sitters are always prepared to look for such things as wasp stings, visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

10 Things You Need to Know About Lyme Disease in Dogs

Good afternoon pet lovers!

With springtime in full-swing, that means tick season is also upon us. With so many chances for ticks, it's important for pet sitters and owners to be aware of how ticks can be contracted and what areas your dog or pet is more likely to get them. You also may or may not know a lot about Lyme Disease but do you know how it can affect your dogs?

"If you're one of the countless pet owners who gives their dog a chewable medication or squirts a preventative oil on their skin, you might be surprised to learn that neither of those tick control tactics actually repel the little bloodsuckers from your dog's body."

Click on the link below to learn more: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/lyme-disease-in-dogs-10-things-you-need-to-know/

Kids Asking for a Reptile? Learn more!

Good afternoon,

As you know we at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care take care of ALL kinds of pets for our clients! Some of them, being reptiles. If you are a parent of a child who has been asking for a new reptile as a pet, you might be wondering if it's a good idea or where to start deciding on which type of reptile might be best for your family. For some, turtles are a great option; others maybe a Gecko.

Thanks to National Geographic there is a great site for kids where they can go on and learn about the different reptiles. There may not be a suitable one for your family on this particular list, but it's a great learning tool and a place to start!

Take a peek here: http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/hubs/reptiles/

If you already have a reptile or other type of pet you are looking for pet sitting services for, please contact us today! We are located in Middleburg, Virginia and service the surrounding areas.

http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Did you know? Trips to the Vet!

Good morning animal lovers!

Did you know that here at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care Services we offer veterinarian visits? We know how busy your life can get with work, schedules, kids, etc. and we also know how important your pet's health is to you. Sometimes getting into the veterinarian's office in a timely matter can be daunting and stressful. Hoofs & Woofs can help you out by taking your pet in to their scheduled appointment so you don't have to! Our trips to the veterinarian start at only $20 plus 45 cents per mile.

Let us help keep your pet in the best shape possible while making your schedule and life easier!

Learn more about our vet trip services and other services we offer at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/services-rates/

Photo credit: Google Stock Images

5 Simple Ways to Keep Cats Out of Your Garden

We hope that everyone and their critters were able to enjoy Easter and the beautiful weather we had this past weekend! We know that our clients were loving the spring weather and sunshine. Today we are sharing an article entitled '5 Ways to Keep Cats Out of Your Garden.' A lot of our farm and personal clients have vegetable or flower gardens around the property. We all know that cats, especially barn cats can be fantastic to have around the farm, but sometimes they can be a bit destructive and frustrating when it comes to our gardens. 

This great article from hobbyfarms.com talks about five creative ways to keep your curious kitties out of your gardens!   Take a look at the link below and try some new, natural methods to help your gardens!

5 Ways to Keep Cats Out of Your Garden

If you are looking for a reliable, affordable and professional animal/farm sitter (for all types!) then contact us today. We are located in Middleburg, Virginia and serve a few of the local surrounding areas as well. 

Do you know? Initial Consultations are FREE!

Good afternoon animal lovers,

Did you know that here at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care, our initial consultations are free of charge? That's because we want to make sure that we are the best fit for your animals and you are 100% confident in trusting them into our hands while you're away. We know how important it is for you to feel fully confident when you leave your pets or farm animals so we make sure to take our time and allow you to get to know each and every one of our sitters. We also offer mini pet visits starting at $15 per visit so you can allow us to get to know your pet even more so before you leave!

We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time. At Hoofs and Woofs, we know that our animals are a part of our family, and we are dedicated to providing excellent service for peace of mind of pet parents!

To learn more about our services or book your free consultation visit: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

10 Steps to Prepare Your Farm for Spring

Good morning,

As you probably already know, Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care Services does more than just house visits. In fact, many of our customers own farms so today's article is for all of our farm clients out there. Whether you have a half-acre of chickens, or 50 acres with horses, we can help ease your mind while you are away, knowing your animals have been fed and cared for!

"Spring is almost here and although this is an incredibly busy time of year for most people in the farming community, it’s also a great time to prepare your farm for smooth running in the seasons ahead."

PC: Baby-animals.net 

Here are some of the 10 steps this article recommends!

1. Conduct an Inspection

2. Complete General Maintenance
3. Hedge Cutting
4. Clean Livestock Shelters
5. Check Animal Health

To learn more about each one of these and the other five steps you can do to prepare your farm for spring visit the original article link here!

Please "Like" & Share Our New Facebook Page!

Good afternoon friends and pet lovers! We want to invite you all to please visit our new Hoofs & Woofs Facebook page and give us a like! Also, feel free to share with your pet-loving friends, too!

There we will be sharing stories, articles, photos, pet tips and more. You can even go on and leave reviews for our services too! Stay tuned for all of the latest news from Middleburg Virginia's premiere pet sitting/pet care business and give us a like!

You can visit the new Facebook page here! (click on the link) You can also find it through our website at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Thank you in advance!! :)

No Dog Is Completely Hypoallergenic But Some Are Better Than Others!

Good morning,

Today we are sharing an article from barkpost.com entitled 'No Dog Is Completely Hypoallergenic, But Some Breeds Produce Way Fewer Allergens Than Others.' Believe it or not there are still many people out there who have mild dog allergies but want the joys that come with being a pet owner. This article talks about a few of the breeds of dogs which produce fewer allergens than others and could be the answer for some of you! (You might be surprised by some of these breeds too!)

Take a look at the article here: http://stories.barkpost.com/discover/what-makes-a-dog-hypoallergenic/?utm_campaign=barkboxfb&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social



And don't forget to call or text us for all of your dog and farm sitting needs! 703-951-7387

http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Pet Naming Tips!

Good morning!

Have you ever struggled to come up with a name for your pet? Or perhaps you are thinking about a new addition to the family and want to brainstorm some name ideas first!

This article from http://www.bowwow.com.au talks about some great tips on picking a good name for your pet. There can be a lot that goes into it which you may not have realized. For example, "If choosing a long name keep in mind the shortened version. A long name will inevitably be shortened, but it may ruin the effect that you were originally looking for."

Want to learn more tips? Visit the original article link here!

Are you looking for a full-service pet sitter in Middleburg, Virginia for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more? You're in luck! Here at Hoofs & Woofs we specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time. Visit our website to learn more: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Benefits of Using a Pet Sitter

Good afternoon,

Today we are sharing a brief article from Pet Sitters.org entitled 'The Benefits of Using a Pet Sitter.' Many of you might be thinking of the more common, or obvious benefits of hiring a pet sitter like adoration, care and love. But, do you ever think about things like not having to impose on family, friends or neighbors? Or what about maintaining medical treatment for your pets when required?

If you are realizing the awesome benefits of hiring a pet sitter and are in Middleburg, Virginia, contact us today! We offer full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.

Visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/  and set up a time for us to meet your four-legged loves today!

To read the article and learn even more valuable benefits to hiring a pet sitter, click here. 

Choosing the Best Pet for You!

Good morning,

Here at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care we take care of and provide pet sitting services for all types of animals! From dogs to birds to rabbits and horses, we do it all! Today's article share comes from bestfriends.org and talks about choosing the right pet for you. "Sharing your life with an animal has great benefits and can bring you great joy. If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, it’s best to learn about the needs of different types of pets to find one that will best suit your lifestyle."

It's important to ask yourself the right questions before picking your perfect pet. If you want some help or ideas, then this article is perfect for you!
Take a look here: http://bestfriends.org/resources/choosing-pet


If you already have your pet family or have just added a new pet and want only the best of care for them, contact us today! http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Top Ten Tips on Finding a Qualified and Professional Pet Sitter

Good morning,

Today we are sharing an article from petmd.com entitled 'Top Ten Tips on Finding a Qualified and Professional Pet Sitter.' A lot of people don't know where to begin or feel overwhelmed when they start to think about leaving their pets. Here at Hoofs & Woofs Pet Care, we offer full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time. So while we meet all of the criteria of this article, it's always good to have as a reference!

To learn more about Hoofs & Woofs visit us online at: http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/

Horse Sitter Checklist

Good afternoon,

As you may or may not know Hoofs and Woofs Pet Care Services offers full-service pet sitting for horses, ponies, dogs, cats, fish, birds, pigs, bunnies and much more! We specialize in giving superior custom care to pets, whether for a day or an extended period of time.

Being in Middleburg, Virginia a lot of our clients are horse farm owners. Leaving your pets can be difficult and worrisome but leaving an entire farm to take care of can be a nightmare! With Hoofs and Woofs, we take the guesswork and stress away for you by providing, professional and reliable services. We meet all of our clients beforehand and take all instructions to heart. However it's always helpful for you as farm owners to have a checklist to help you prepare for our visit.  Today we are sharing an article from equisearch.com which gives a good 'Horse Sitter Checklist' to go by. We hope that you find this helpful in planning your next trip away and for everything else, Call or Text us at 703-951-7387!

http://hoofsandwoofspets.com/