Pet Services | Dog Walking & Pet Sitting Available

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced digital world, effective marketing is crucial for any business looking to thrive. If you’re a business owner in the Queen City, you might be wondering how to find the best marketing strategies to reach your target audience. This is where a marketing company in Charlotte can offer valuable insights and expertise. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know when choosing the right marketing partner in Charlotte.

Understanding Your Marketing Needs

Before seeking a marketing company in Charlotte, it’s essential to assess your specific marketing needs. Consider what you hope to achieve, whether it’s increasing brand awareness, generating leads, or improving customer engagement. Knowing your goals will help you communicate effectively with potential marketing firms and ensure they align with your vision.

Evaluating Options: Key Features to Look For

When searching for a marketing company in Charlotte, there are several key features to consider:

1. Experience and Expertise

Look for a company with a proven track record of success in various marketing strategies. Their experience in different industries can offer invaluable insights tailored to your specific market.

2. Range of Services

A full-service marketing agency can provide a comprehensive approach to your marketing needs. Services may include SEO, content marketing, social media management, and more. This diversity can help ensure all aspects of your marketing are aligned and working towards the same goals.

3. Understanding Local Market Dynamics

Choosing a marketing company in Charlotte that understands the local market can give you a significant edge. They will be familiar with regional trends, customer behaviors, and competitive landscapes that can affect your marketing strategy.

The Importance of SEO

In the digital age, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is critical for online visibility. A knowledgeable marketing company will emphasize the importance of SEO in their strategies. If you are looking for quality services, consider connecting with a reliable Charlotte SEO and marketing company in Charlotte that can help your business rank higher in search engine results.

Assessing Results: Metrics that Matter

Finally, it’s vital to understand how to evaluate the results of your marketing campaigns. Work with your chosen marketing company to set clear metrics that will help measure success, such as website traffic, conversion rates, or social media engagement.

Conclusion

Finding the right marketing company in Charlotte can be a game-changer for your business. By understanding your needs and evaluating your options carefully, you can partner with a marketing firm that not only understands the local market but also has the expertise to help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, the right marketing strategy is essential for growth.

Why Choose a Marketing Company in Charlotte?

Finding the right marketing partner is crucial for any business aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. In Charlotte, a vibrant hub for commerce and innovation, a marketing company in Charlotte can provide tailored strategies that resonate with local audiences and enhance your brand’s visibility.

The Importance of Local Expertise

A marketing company based in Charlotte understands the unique dynamics of the local market. They are familiar with the community’s culture, preferences, and trends, which allows them to craft strategies that appeal specifically to Charlotte’s diverse demographics. When you work with a local marketing partner, your business isn’t just another name on a list; you’re part of the community. This connection can build trust and contribute to your brand’s success.

Key Services Offered by a Marketing Company in Charlotte

When considering a marketing company in Charlotte, it’s essential to understand the range of services they provide. Here are some critical offerings you can expect:

1. Digital Marketing Strategies

In the digital age, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable. A marketing company in Charlotte will help you establish an effective digital strategy that includes search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and pay-per-click advertising. These strategies are designed to increase your visibility and reach target customers effectively.

2. Content Marketing

Content is king when it comes to engaging and retaining customers. By partnering with a Charlotte-based marketing firm, you can develop compelling content that speaks to your audience’s needs and interests. This can include blog posts, videos, infographics, and case studies that not only boost your SEO but also position your brand as a thought leader in your industry.

3. Branding and Design

Your brand is your business identity. A marketing company in Charlotte can assist you in crafting a cohesive brand image that reflects your values and resonates with your customers. From logo design to comprehensive branding strategies, they can help ensure that your brand stands out in the marketplace.

Why SEO Matters

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a cornerstone of any effective marketing strategy. A specialized Charlotte SEO and marketing company in Charlotte can optimize your website to improve its ranking on search engines, ultimately driving more traffic to your site. Effective SEO strategies boost your credibility and make it easier for potential customers to find you when they need services or products that you offer.

Measuring Success

Working with a marketing company in Charlotte should involve a clear understanding of performance metrics. Regular reporting and analytics can help you evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns. Look for a company that provides insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) so you can track your return on investment (ROI) and make informed decisions about future strategies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, partnering with a marketing company in Charlotte is not just a business decision; it’s an investment in your company’s future. With local expertise, a wide range of services, and a strong emphasis on SEO, you can position your business for sustained growth and success. As Charlotte continues to grow as a central business district, the right marketing partner can provide the edge you need to stand out.

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, businesses in Charlotte face unique challenges and opportunities. The right marketing company in Charlotte can be instrumental in helping your brand navigate this landscape. This article will explore how to choose the best marketing partner for your needs, the services they offer, and the benefits of working with a local expert.

Why Choose a Local Marketing Company?

Choosing a marketing company in Charlotte allows you to work with a team that understands the local culture, market trends, and consumer behaviors. Local agencies can provide personalized services that cater specifically to the Charlotte audience. They are also more accessible for face-to-face meetings, offering a level of collaboration that remote agencies might lack.

Understanding Your Business Needs

Before selecting a marketing company in Charlotte, it’s essential to understand what your business needs. Are you looking to improve your online presence, enhance brand awareness, or drive sales? Some common services offered by local agencies include:

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC)
• Social Media Marketing
• Content Marketing
• Brand Strategy Development

Evaluating Potential Agencies

When evaluating different marketing companies, consider their portfolio, client testimonials, and case studies. A reputable marketing company in Charlotte should have a proven track record of delivering successful campaigns. Additionally, look for agencies that specialize in your industry, as they will be better equipped to understand your unique challenges and audience.

Services Offered by Marketing Companies

Most marketing companies offer a wide range of services designed to increase visibility and drive traffic to your business. This can include:

• SEO Services: Optimizing your website to rank higher on search engines, leading to increased organic traffic. Many companies in Charlotte specialize in Charlotte SEO and marketing.
• PPC Campaigns: Creating targeted ads on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook that can provide immediate results.
• Content Marketing: Developing relevant and engaging content that resonates with your audience and encourages them to interact with your brand.
• Social Media Management: Cultivating an engaging presence on social media platforms to connect with customers and build community.

The Benefits of Working with a Marketing Company in Charlotte

Working with a local agency can offer your business several advantages:

• Personalized Service: Local agencies can provide tailored marketing strategies that fit your specific goals and market.
• Networking Opportunities: They often have existing relationships with other local businesses and influencers, which can benefit your marketing efforts.
• Quick Response Times: Proximity allows for faster communication, which is crucial in the fast-paced world of digital marketing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right marketing company in Charlotte can dramatically influence your business’s growth and success. Take the time to evaluate your options carefully, consider their expertise and alignment with your goals, and don’t hesitate to ask for references. By doing so, you set your business up for effective marketing strategies and, ultimately, increased profitability.

Understanding the Importance of a Marketing Company in Charlotte

In the bustling business environment of Charlotte, North Carolina, choosing the right marketing company in Charlotte can make a significant difference in your brand’s visibility and growth. With the rise of digital marketing, local businesses now have access to a wide array of tools and strategies to promote their services effectively.

Why Local Expertise Matters

Partnering with a marketing company in Charlotte provides your business with local insights that can drive your marketing strategies. These companies understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with operating in this vibrant city. From competition analysis to localized strategies, their expertise can help navigate the Charlotte market landscape.

Tailored Marketing Strategies

A professional marketing company can tailor strategies specifically for your target audience. For instance, they can optimize your social media presence, enhance your content marketing strategies, and develop SEO-friendly content that resonates with local consumers. They ensure that your messages are not just reaching people, but the right people. SEO is particularly crucial, as it elevates your business’s visibility in search engine results, ensuring potential customers find you when searching for your services.

Incorporating Digital Marketing Techniques

In today’s digital age, utilizing effective digital marketing techniques is a must. A leading marketing company in Charlotte should offer services like search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click advertising (PPC), social media marketing, and email campaigns to enhance your online presence. These methods not only drive traffic to your website but also help in converting visitors into loyal customers.

Focusing on SEO: A Must for Charlotte Businesses

When seeking a marketing company in Charlotte, it’s essential to find one that prioritizes SEO. This includes optimizing your website structure, conducting keyword research, and implementing on-page SEO tactics. For optimal results, consider working with a Charlotte SEO and marketing company in Charlotte that can help you achieve higher ranking on search engines, making it easier for customers to discover your products or services.

Evaluating Potential Marketing Partners

As you research marketing companies in Charlotte, keep these factors in mind:

• Portfolio and Case Studies: Assess their previous work and the results achieved for clients in similar industries.
• Client Testimonials: Positive feedback from past clients can give you insights into their working style and effectiveness.
• Service Offerings: Ensure they offer the full spectrum of services necessary for your business growth.
• Communication: Choose a company that values consistent communication and transparency in their processes.

Conclusion

In summary, selecting the right marketing company in Charlotte is vital in establishing a strong presence in the marketplace. With the right guidance and partnership, your business can leverage tailored marketing strategies that resonate with local audiences. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable Charlotte SEO and marketing company in Charlotte to elevate your marketing efforts and achieve your business goals successfully.

Understanding the Importance of a Local Marketing Company

In today’s digital age, businesses need a robust marketing strategy to succeed. For companies in Charlotte, finding the right marketing company in Charlotte can be a game changer. A local agency understands the market dynamics, customer preferences, and unique trends that can significantly impact campaign success.

Why Choose a Marketing Company in Charlotte?

When you partner with a marketing company in Charlotte, you benefit from their knowledge of the local landscape. They can craft marketing strategies tailored specifically for your audience, ensuring that your message resonates with potential customers. From SEO to social media marketing, Charlotte-based agencies have the expertise to implement solutions that work.

Local Expertise

A marketing company that operates in Charlotte knows what appeals to the local demographic. They can provide insights into local trends, preferences, and community events, allowing your business to connect with consumers on a deeper level. This proximity often leads to more effective campaigns compared to firms that do not have a local presence.

Holistic Marketing Strategies

Another advantage of choosing a local marketing company is their ability to offer comprehensive strategies. These companies understand that today’s marketing landscape demands an integrated approach. From digital marketing techniques like SEO and pay-per-click advertising to traditional methods such as print marketing, a well-rounded strategy increases the chances of reaching broader audiences.

Key Services Offered by Charlotte Marketing Companies

Here are some essential services that a typical marketing company in Charlotte might provide:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO is crucial for any business’s online visibility. A specialized Charlotte SEO and marketing company in Charlotte can help improve your website’s ranking on search engines, driving organic traffic to your site.

Social Media Management

Social media is a powerful tool for engaging customers. A local agency will know which platforms resonate with your target audience and can create content that stimulates interaction and builds brand loyalty.

Content Marketing

Content is king in the digital marketing world. A marketing company can help you craft valuable, relevant content that not only informs your audience but also fosters trust and credibility in your brand.

How to Choose the Best Marketing Company?

When choosing a marketing company in Charlotte, consider the following tips:

Evaluate Their Portfolio

A reputable agency should have a robust portfolio showcasing previous work and results. Look for case studies that demonstrate their marketing successes, especially in industries similar to yours.

Check Client Testimonials

Reading reviews and testimonials from other clients can provide insight into the agency’s reliability and effectiveness. Reach out to former clients if possible to ask about their experiences.

Discuss Your Needs

Before committing, have a conversation with potential agencies about your specific needs and goals. This dialogue will help you assess whether they understand your vision and can tailor their services to meet your expectations.

Conclusion

Finding the right marketing company in Charlotte can significantly influence your business’s growth. By leveraging local expertise and a comprehensive approach, these agencies can help you build a strong brand presence and connect with your audience effectively. Don’t hesitate to take your time evaluating choices; ensuring that the marketing partner aligns with your business goals is essential for long-term success.

Proper pet care is the basis of responsible pet ownership. It is important when you adopt a pet to understand it is a lifetime commitment to a furry family member that depends on you for his or her health and well-being.

Happily, the unconditional love and joy that pets bring to our lives more than makes up for the added responsibility that comes with welcoming adding a furry child to your family. To ensure your pet’s health and happiness, following are the necessities that all responsible pet owners need to provide.

Pets need healthy food.

Just like people, pets need food that meets their specific nutritional needs. Dog foods are designed to meet a dog’s nutritional needs and cat foods are designed to meet a cat’s nutritional needs. Importantly, their dietary needs are very different. Puppies require different food from senior dogs. Pet’s with health issues may require special diets. Table scraps are typically not good for dogs and cats because many of the foods we eat, such as salt, garlic, and onions are bad for your pet’s health and can make them sick or even be fatal.

Don’t forget to give pets the right amount of food, too! Overfeeding your pet or giving him too many treats could lead to obesity, which could consequently trigger more health problems such as heart disease, renal problems, and more. Weigh your options when it comes to pet food to avoid these kinds of illnesses — and if you don’t exactly know what foods are best for your pet, it’s a great idea to ask the opinion of your vet!

Give your pets 24/7 access to fresh drinking water.

Just like human beings, pets need ready access to water in order to survive. Always provide a clean, fresh bowl of water to all animals in your care. Make it accessible by placing it near their food bowl, and remember to refill your pet’s water bowl at least two times a day. This will keep your pet cool, hydrated, and healthy.

If your pet lives in water, like fish and turtles, clean aquariums at least once a week. Failing to do so could lead to smelly tanks and sick pets!

Proper pet care includes providing a safe, cozy shelter.

Cars, aggressive dogs, and predators are an ongoing threat to cats, which is why they should be kept indoors for their own safety. Many cats enjoy having a covered bed or cocoon-like space inside where they can retreat to and feel safe.

If you let your dog out in your fenced-in yard off-leash, be sure he is wearing tags and is microchipped, and that the microchip is registered and your contact information is up-to-date. It is also a good idea to register your pet with Finding Rover. Always provide shade and shelter, along with water. Indoors, dogs also typically enjoy having their own dog bed and older dogs, in particular, may benefit from having an orthopedic bed.

Pets need protection from extreme hot and cold temperatures and other extreme weather and shouldn’t be expected to live exclusively outside. Another concern is predators like coyotes (who tend to lurk at night but are often present in the daytime as well) that might consider your pets as suitable prey.

Pets need to go to the bathroom regularly.

Many types of pets can be housebroken, allowing them the opportunity to roam the house without the worries of accidents. Cats should be provided at least one litter box,

Puppies generally need a potty break every one to two hours during the day. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold it for as many hours as she is months old, plus one. For example, a three-month-old puppy, should have at least one bathroom break every four hours. You’ll learn the needs of your own dog but no dog should be expected to “hold it” more than six hours. Senior dogs also need to relieve themselves more frequently, just like older people. Dogs can be taught how to use doggy doors, potty pads, or to wait for walks to relieve themselves.

No matter where your pet’s bathroom is, be sure to clean it regularly. Observing proper hygiene and sanitation will prevent dirt and bacteria from piling up and help protect your pet’s health. Your pets will greatly appreciate having a clean area to do their business, too!

Make sure that your pet gets regular exercise.

Proper pet care also includes exercising your pet. Exercise is an important part of your pet’s mental, as well as physical, health. If you spend any time on social media, you know that all kinds of animals like to play such as this ball-playing turtle, this dog playing fetch by himself or this bird playing with a red cup. What some people consider misbehavior in a pet is just the pet getting bored an amusing itself by getting in the garbage or tearing up the couch or…well you get the idea. Need some suggestions on what to do with your dog? Check out The Animal Foundation’s Guide to Your Dog’s Play Time and Activities.

Pets also benefit from socialization, whether that’s regular interaction with you, having guests come over, or trips outside of the house. Expand their horizons and improve their people skills while helping them to safely experience new things!

Pets require doctor visits and healthy habits.

To ensure that your pets are healthy and nimble, you should take them to a local, trusted veterinarian for wellness check-ups at least once a year. Keeping up on your pet’s vaccinations [LINK: Cat & Dog Vaccines] is essential. Clean teeth and healthy gums also play an important role in your pet’s health.  If your furry friend is showing signs or symptoms of being sick, take them to your vet or animal hospital right away to get them feeling better sooner rather than later!

Another way to keep your pets healthy and happy is to regularly groom them (if needed). Matted fur can be painful and unhealthy for dogs. Dogs and cats may not like it, but baths, brushings, nail trims, and flea/tick removal may be necessary for your pet’s well-being.

With the above tips on proper pet care, you and your beloved pet are well on your way to a lifetime of happiness together!

The Alaskan Malamute is a large dog that was originally bred as an Alaskan sled dog, making it one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs on the market.  Very similar to a Siberian Husky in terms of looks, the Alaskan Malamute tends to be very timid, loyal and very loving.  The cost of an Alaskan Malamute will mostly depend on the age of the dog, the breeder, its bloodline, colors, the quality and inclusions with the adoption.

How much does an Alaskan malamute cost?

On average, an Alaskan Malamute can cost anywhere from $400 for a puppy without paperwork to as much as $2,500 from an AKC registered breeder. 

At the time of this writing, for instance, PuppyFind.com, a popular online dog classified website, has close to 250 listings, with prices ranging from $650 to as much as $1,800 for a limited AKC registered puppy.  Those who would want a full registration could pay $2,100 to $2,500.  Most breeders, from at least what we saw, they would include registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a vet exam, health guarantee and pedigree paperwork.

Researching the official AKC Marketplace, we had found listings ranging from as little as $800 to $1,800 for partial registration.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Most breeders will have each of their puppies up to date with current vaccinations and health-related paperwork, showing everything that has been done at a local licensed vet clinic.  Aside from this, a reputable breeder should also include a written health guarantee, a microchip, spay/neuter and/or a travel crate if it were to be shipped.

What are the extra costs?

If the dog has to be shipped across the United States, airline fees can start at $150 and be as high as $400, depending on the distance traveled.

Recurring costs need to be factored in, as with any pet, such as a food, accessories, shelter, and routine/surprise vet visits.  A healthy dog owner should be prepared, at a minimum, to spend $600 to $900 per year to take care of their dog.  If a problem were to persist and your dog required surgery and/or lengthy treatments, the costs could be much more.

Even though they are considered to be highly intelligent, they can be stubborn at times, and because of this, they will require training at a younger age, just like any other dog breed.  At a minimum, they should learn the basics such as sit, lay down and stay.  You should also teach your dog the basics of crate training if your dog needs to stay in a confined environment while away.

The dog does require a good brushing a few times per week and is considered to be a very heavy shedder.  If you don’t have the time to groom your dog weekly, it’s highly advised you take your dog in for monthly grooming sessions to keep its coat clean and healthy.

Breeding rights, if available, can often cost another $700 to $1,000.

Tips to know:

This breed is known to have hip and elbow problems, and to prove the dog doesn’t have the chance of these problems, they may offer an OFA certification.  This type of certification will take a close look at the puppy’s relatives to see if any problems existed.

The Alaskan Malamute can grow up to 85 pounds and can stand as tall as 25 inches.  Its coat tends to be a double-coat, similar to many huskies, coming in common colors such as black, gray, or sable.  The top coat will be thick and coarse, protecting it from all sorts of weather, while beneath the coat will be a softer and dense oily coat.

Its temperament is known to be highly intellligent, friendly and can often be a very calm dog when trained right.  With this friendly temperament, don’t expect this dog to be a great watch dog.

When healthy, the lifespan can range from 10 to 14 years.

The Alaskan Malamute is known to be very energetic, active, and because of this, they will require a lot of space to roam throughout the day.

Separation anxiety is very common if the dog is left alone for prolonged periods of time.

How can I save money?

Check out a local rescue group or even the Humane Society.  While you may not be able to find this breed, you could find a puppy that closely resembles the look.  Adopting is a great way to offer a dog a forever home; plus, the costs will be much less when compared to working with a breeder.

What professional dog walkers and pet sitters do

You probably already have a pretty good idea of what dog walkers and pet sitters do. A dog walker walks dogs, and a pet sitter is like a babysitter for pets. Easy enough, right? While both of those statements are true—that’s only the tip of the iceberg! There is a lot more involved behind the scenes than just the time you will spend caring for pets.

Pet safety and wellbeing:

No matter what type of service you are providing or what kind of pet your client has, the most important thing is to make sure that pet is well taken care of. You are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of any pet that is in your care. Clients are trusting you with their beloved companions—and this is not a responsibility to take lightly. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and knowledge to provide the best care possible. This includes being knowledgeable about pet behaviors and learning pet first aid. We have a lot more great information in our blog post on Pet First Aid for Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters.

Be professional:

There is a big difference between hiring a professional dog walker and paying the kid down the street $10 to walk your dog after school. A pet care professional is appropriately insured and bonded. You can find more detailed information on insurance in our Academy lesson on Pet Sitting Insurance. You will also need a Service Agreement with your clients that outlines what is expected from both parties.

Being a professional means that you are responsible for creating and keeping schedules. This involves coordinating many schedules at the same time as your business grows and you have multiple employees. As the owner of the company, you are ultimately responsible for making sure that every service is completed.

For dog walks, make sure they are completed at the scheduled time and for the agreed-upon duration. Pet sitters provide care for all types of pets. It can be done as a pop-in visit, overnight stay, or a stay at the pet sitters home. They ensure that pets are well taken care of—fed, given water, bathroom breaks, and anything else a pet might need.

Other responsibilities include:

• Meeting with clients — you are the face of the company, so it’s essential to make a good impression. See our article on Mastering the Meet and Greet for more information.
• Key management — keeping track of a couple of keys in easy, but once you have a hundred clients, you’ll need a system!
• Going to customers’ homes and sometimes providing additional services like taking in the mail or watering plants
• Invoicing and receiving payments — you’ll be delighted you have pet sitting software once it comes time to invoice and receive payments.

Other considerations for dog walkers and pet sitters:

While taking care of pets can be a dream job, it can also be challenging. As a dog walker or pet sitter, you will have a constantly changing schedule and work environment. On any given day, you might be out in the field, visiting clients’ homes and walking dogs in a variety of locations. You will be dealing with a variety of different pet personalities and needs.

You also have to consider that being a professional dog walker or pet sitter involves being available and reliable. This means working rain or shine, and often on holidays—usually the busiest times of the year for pet sitters.

Start Simple

Deciding which services you will offer is an essential part of starting and growing your dog walking or pet sitting business. It really comes down to what type of animals you want to care for and what resources you have available. Do you want only to walk dogs? Can you do overnight stays at a client’s home?

You can always add more services later. Focus on being the best you can at what you offer. We recommend keeping services as simple as possible. It can be easy to go overboard and offer dozens of types of services like cat sitting, dog walking, pet sitting, evening sitting, early morning walks, etc.

In reality, most of these services are probably very similar and have the same price point as well. Instead of offering tons of separate services, it’s easier to offer just a handful of services based on the duration of the event. There are just way too many inconsistencies when charging per task instead of by a certain amount of time.

For example—you may have a 15-minute visit, a 30-minute visit, and a 60-minute visit. Each visit can be the same for cats, dogs, walks, birds, morning, night, etc. Even though you may be doing different things at each event, you are still spending the same amount of your time. This makes the process much more straightforward when customers are requesting services—and more uncomplicated for you as well.

Keep your rates consistent and straightforward. In many cases, there is no need to add an extra dollar for giving oral medications, changing litter boxes, watering plants, or bringing in the mail. These additional services can all fall under the designated time of the visit. If a pet needs extra attention (or the visit requires more time for other services), then the visit should be for a longer duration.

One of the first things most people do when searching for a new pet sitter or dog walker is look at their prices. Make sure your prices are clearly stated on your website and are easy to understand. You will be more reliable, and clients will know what to expect, which leads to fewer misunderstandings about rates. If you are interested in finding out more information about how to set your rates, take a look at our blog post, The Ultimate Guide to Setting Your Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Rates. You can also use our Free Rate Calculator Tools to help determine rates!

It’s always better to keep it simple, but here are some ideas for services to offer:

• Dog walking
• Dog running
• Dog hiking
• Dog park visits
• Training
• Pet sitting for any animal type or time duration
• Overnight stays
• Emergency visits
• Medications and/or vitamins administered as needed
• Cat litter cleaned
• Plants watered (indoor and outdoor)
• Mail and newspaper collected
• Pet waste clean up
• House and home security checks
• Individualized, Customized Dog (and cat) Exercise Programs
• Pet food pick up and delivery
• Pet taxi
• Pet wedding attendant
• And much more.

They’ve been pleading, begging and bargaining…for a furry friend! And honestly, who wouldn’t want to add more love to their family? Pets are beloved companions for a reason. Being in the presence of animals has been shown to relieve stress (and add joy!), as they quickly become like a member of the family! It is a big decision, though, since dogs and cats can live for ten years or more years, with added responsibilities to take care of your new best friend. Still on the fence and trying to decide whether or not to go for it? Here is a list of eight questions to ask yourself before getting a family pet that just may help you decide.

1. What Type of Pet Should You Get?

 

Cat, dog, hamster…lizard—did you grow up with a cat, dog or other? Your answer may help inform your choice: picking an animal that you are already comfortable cohabitating with. If you’re still not sure, think about your family’s lifestyle. Are you super active? Maybe a dog! Are you traveling often or prefer more lap snuggles? Maybe a cat. Or snake? Decisions, decisions.

 

2. Where Should You Get a Pet?

 

You can’t go wrong with adopting from the shelter! Chances are, there is a local animal shelter or two near you. They have lots of cats and dogs to choose from: Large, medium and small breeds, pure breeds and mixes, puppies and adult dogs (already potty-trained, bonus!), cats and kittens of all kinds. A good deal of the people working in animal shelters are volunteers and very pet-savvy. They can help you pick the purrfect pet that fits your family’s personality and preference.

 

3. Will Your New Pet Be Safe Around Your Kids?

 

Yet another reason we love shelter adoptions: The shelter caregivers tend to know their animals very well, from history to how they currently interact with people and other pets. Ask which pets have experience with younger kids or families. Like any new friends, once you take a new pet home, be sure to supervise any interactions as your baby and new fur baby slowly get to know each other—just watch that animal-human bond grow!

 

4. What Responsibilities Will The Kids Have?

 

It’s a good idea to make this clear before choosing your new bestie: Caring for a pet is a team effort. It’s also a great way to encourage responsibility and time-management skills in your kids. Like us, animals thrive on a routine; eating, going for walks, sleeping and yes, going “potty” around the same time every day. For younger kids, making sure their pet has food and water is an excellent way to involve them. Older kids can help with walks and clean-up. We promise the rewards of having a pet, and the love you get back, will be well worth the effort!

 

5. How Will Having a Pet Change Your Day-to-Day Routine?

 

See the answer to question four. Pets need care, so setting up an “eat, walk, potty” schedule is crucial. Puppies are adorable but potty training, much like with a child, can be a challenge. If you’re not up for that, try an older dog or cat! They still have so much love to give and lots of fun to share with your family. Also, if you travel often or work long hours away from home, remember you will need a pet sitter or kennel drop-off (or just a really good friend to hold the leash while you’re gone, who loves your pet as much as you do!).

 

6. Are You Prepared for The Extra Cost?

 

Caring for a pet can add up. This is another reason why we love shelter adoption. Not only are you saving an animal in need but you only pay a small fee to adopt rather than a large sum to a breeder, which can be upwards of a thousand dollars. A dog or cat will need food, vet visits, spay or neutering, grooming (nail trims and baths…) and health care throughout their lives, so keep that in mind. You may also want to check out Pet Insurance. It’s very affordable and can help in case your pet falls ill or is injured.

 

7. How Do You Feel About Pet Hair (Everywhere)?

 

You get a new pet and before you know it, you’re covered in pet hair 24/7. There are plenty of great pet-hair removing vacuums out there which you may want to consider, also the old school tape roll on a stick (hey, it works!). If you experience any allergy symptoms from pet fur, consider getting an allergy-friendly breed. Some dogs have fur, which sheds and some have hair, which grows out and needs to be trimmed from time to time. The latter tends to be more hypo-allergenic but be sure to check with your doctor and ask your local shelter helper!

 

8. What’s Your Care Plan When You’re Away?

 

If you are home all day, you’re set for snuggles! If not, you may need to hire a pet walker or pet sitter. Dogs and cats can certainly be on their own for a while but need bathroom breaks and play, just like us. There are even doggy daycares if you need more full-day work coverage. And hey, pets need to socialize, too, so it’s a win-win!