Our Ellesmere branch have continued to offer dog walking services to their local pet owner community through the Covid19 lockdown and wanting to support the fantastic key workers who have been risking their own health to help others, our Ellesmere branch have offered free dog walking to key workers – giving something back.
Archive for the ‘News’ Category
Animal Smart Ellesmere make local paper
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020
Dog Breeds
Thursday, April 23rd, 2020
There are hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, some more popular than others, some are energetic and suited to a more active family’s. Or a dog that is more relaxed.
Choosing a dog breed that will suit your family and your life style is very important. Consider what your home is like and how much time you can give to your new member of the family.
All dogs personalities are very different, after taking them home it’s up to you that they receive good socialisation and good handling.
If you don’t have the time you could consider getting an older dog that has already been taught the skills needed for everyday life.
Here are the top 8 dogs and there characteristics:
Beagle
Their noses guide them through life. Beagles are the best companions for children and adults alike and with their loving and happy personality, fitting in with the family would be no problem for them. Being hounds, these dogs can be stubborn causing training to be a little harder, coming up with creative training techniques and being patient is the best way for this dog.
Golden Retriever
These dogs are very popular, the breeds friendly and tolerant attitude makes them the ideal pet for any family house. They are very intelligent so could potentially be highly capable working dogs. These dogs are fairly easy to train and would get along with just about anyone, if your looking for a loyal, loving and an intelligent companion look on getting a Golden retriever.
Chihuahua
This dog breed appeals to allot of people due to their small size, big personality and the variety coat types and colours. These dogs might be small but they are fully capable taking part in agility. They love spending time with their humans and require minimum of grooming and exercise.
Cockapoo
These dogs are reasonably small in size, but definitely the biggest clown and will always put a smile on your face with their silly behaviour. The cockapoo is an ideal dog for anyone, it’s breed is very intelligent meaning it is very easy to train. This dog hardly sheds, very forgiving, and will make sure your never alone, probably follow you to the bathroom. They are very happy running round an agility course showing off their tricks.
Springer Spaniel
These mischievous and high energy dogs are great for active family’s however needs a good run everyday otherwise will become a boisterous handful. With there intelligent personality they would make great working dogs as they are so easy to train. If you want a companion that’s polite with everyone very active a Springer spaniel is for you.
Labrador
These are very kind and gentle dogs. They are very trusting toward people, and would make a great member of a family. These dogs were originally bred for working so keeping their minds active is a must, they are very strong so obedience training from a young age is required. They get on with other dogs well and very protective so any ideal dog for family’s.
German Shepard
Confident and loyal dogs will be amazing dogs as long as given the right socialization and obedience training as soon as possible. German Shepard’s get along with members of the family great but strangers they can be leery. They are very active and quite large dogs so exercise is definitely required for them but would make a great protective dog for the family.
Yorkshire terrier
These little dogs may be small but they are the most curious and confident. They have a noticeable coat that is different to other dogs and require good grooming and care. They are extremely affectionate and wants allot of attention from their owners but can be snappy towards small children if not treated right . Due to there small size they don’t need allot of exercise, but nice walks they love too. This breed is ideal for an older person but could easily fit in with a family.
Whatever dog breed you choose, making sure that you know what you are getting is the key to a very happy and fulfilling relationship.
Dogs offer unconditional love that is so special.
Animal Smart Dog and Family Fun During COVID19 Lockdown
Friday, April 17th, 2020
Doing fun things for your dog and your family might seem a challenge at the minute when we are all so restricted, so here at Animal Smart we wanted to inspire our dog owners of some simple but effective games you can play with your dog without the need for leaving your house.
Just as we need stimulation, so do our dogs. Enrichment activities stimulate your dogs mind and helps to keep them happy and healthy even if their usual social walks in the park with other dogs as stopped for now.
These 5 enrichment games could even be made into a family game, so why not get the kids involved too. Great bonding time for everyone.
- Treasure Hunt
Stop boredom and restless, try a treasure hunt. Take some of your dog’s favourite treats and hide them around the house, encouraging them to use their smell sense is a great way of tiring their minds. Supplement unhealthy treats with healthy ones such as carrots.
2 Apple bobbing
This is entertainment for the whole family while you watch your dog fish for the Apples. It will be rewarding for your dog however difficult at the same time. This activity will keep your dog entertained for a while. It’s great on warmer days as a way to keep your dog cool.
3. Make a puzzle
Dogs with high energy need diversions, so try a brain teaser. You could do this by old materials that you have at home like tennis balls and treats it a tug toy from old t- shirts could be a challenge that’s your dog craves.
4 Make an agility course
An inside agility course is fin for the kids to build (and even play) and a fun way to keep your dog active. If you have a garden you could take the agility outside for some fresh air fun. Using cushions, wood, chairs, cones, sweeping brush… Anything that is safe.
5. Play with a sprinkler
Fun for kids and dogs no matter what season your in. Running through sprinklers, playing in the leafs seems like great fun for your dog. Sometimes the simplest things make the best memories.
These are just 5 games to keep your dog engaged at home and fun for the whole family. Staying active and having fun will get us all through this.
We would love to see you playing these games…please share your experiences and tag us in Facebook
Animal Smart Team
Animal Smart Pet Franchise
Monday, February 17th, 2020
Animal Smart is launching their exciting new pet franchise this month bringing a fresh and current option for animal lovers who are looking to start their own pet business in the UK’s booming pet industry.
The UK pet market contributes a massive £4bn each year to the economy, offering a potentially lucrative business proposition to any budding entrepreneur. As more and more families see their pets as equal family members it’s doubtful that we will see a decline in the demand for these pet care services anytime soon.
Animal Smart founded by Registered Veterinary Nurse, Rachael McCooey, prides itself on the high level of training provided to its franchisees. Rachael, who is also a qualified Animal Physiotherapist commented “Animals have always been a big part of my life both personally and professionally and I am excited to share my experience and knowledge with likeminded people looking to start their own pet care business. Having set up my own business and gaining the freedom and flexibility that comes with it the Animal Smart franchise has been created to offer other people the chance to achieve the same.”
Animal Smart offers a range of pet care services from pet sitting to dog walking. Through a franchise network Animal Smart are expanding nationwide to offer pet care services through local community branches.
There are no formal qualifications required and people looking to join the franchise are not expected to have business experience as all franchisee undergo a comprehensive training program before commencing their pet business.
The Animal Smart franchise can be operated on a part time or full time basis. Whether an ambitious entrepreneur looking to grow a high turnover business, a parent who requires flexibility to work around school hours and child care, or someone looking for a lifestyle business entering retirement the model can be tailored to fit around any lifestyle.
Rachael added “The model offers flexibility for people who maybe are looking for a lifestyle or part time business, one that they can grow at a rate that suits them. And the model can also be operated full time with options to scale up. It’s really about people achieving the right balance for them.”
“Animal Smart franchise opportunity offers the freedom to work from home and achieve the lifestyle you want”
Having grown her own business in the animal industry, Rachael has teamed with franchise specialist to develop a flexible business model where franchisees can offer pet sitting and dog walking services to pet owners within their local communities.
The franchise specialists have brought many years experience growing and supporting franchise networks as well as a proven model. The team within Animal Smart franchise bring a unique offering to the franchise market.
Other than having a passion for animals, enjoy meeting new people and want to learn new skills, no experience is required to start an Animal Smart franchise as all training is provided. Anyone joining as a franchisee will receive both business and animal training and ongoing support from both Rachael and the franchise support team.
Within the franchise package there is comprehensive business and marketing training including an operating system.
Rachael comments “I believe that clients should be confident in the ability of the person they entrust their pets with, through my experience and knowledge as a vet nurse and animal physio we provide franchisees with bespoke specialist training before caring for clients pets. It’s about growing a trusted brand and empowering and supporting others to grow their own flexible and fulfilling pet care businesses, so that they can achieve freedom and satisfaction that comes from building your own successful business.”
If you are looking to operate your own pet sitting business and would like the support and guidance of experienced people contact the Animal Smart Franchise team
Rachael concludes; “Since becoming my own boss and I’ve never looked back. Brining Animal Smart to the pet franchise market is exciting as I can share all my knowledge with people like me who not just love animals but are wanting to take control of their future and operate a successful own pet business.”
Animal smart franchise is available right now to individuals who are passionate about animals, that are looking to become their own boss and are ambitious and driven to succeed.
Find out more about Animal Smart Pet Franchise
Animal Smart Flexible Dog Walking Service in Wrexham for Dog Owners
Tuesday, February 4th, 2020Dogs come in all shapes, sizes and energy levels! Sometimes as dog owners juggling our day to day and then fitting in enough time to exercise our dogs can be challenging.
That’s why at Animal Smart Wrexham our dog walkers are able to slot in when you can’t. Our dog walking services in Wrexham are flexible to meet both you and your dogs needs. We don’t insist that we come daily or even weekly, just whenever you need.
We will fit around you and your dogs individual needs tailoring our dog walks in Wrexham to exactly what your dog requires.
Our team have received training from a veterinary nurse and we have completed a pet first aid course. We are also DBS checked and fully insured for your peace of mind.
We are knowledgeable about certain health conditions that may require consideration when exercising your dog and we’ve had specific training around certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and epilepsy, offering you confidence that your dog is in capable hands when being cared for by Animal Smart Wrexham.
If you have never used us before, simply send us a message via the Contact Form and we will get back in touch to discuss your dogs needs and arrange an initial visit.
During the Initial visit we will get to know us better and it gives us an opportunity to meet you and your dog and find out exactly what it is you are looking for from your dog walker.
We look forward to meeting you soon.
Animal Smart Founder Rachael McCooey Veterinary Physiotherapist and Veterinary Nurse
Tuesday, February 4th, 2020
Having recently launched the Animal Smart Pet Franchise, Rachael McCooey founded Animal Smart Pet Care following her vast experience in the animal and veterinary industry. Passionate to enhance the pet sitting sector through education, Rachael is on a mission to for Animal Smart to become the most trusted pet care provider in the UK.
Rachael started her veterinary career in 2005 and graduated as a small animal RVN in 2008 and has now been registered with the RCVS for around 12 years.
Since qualifying as a veterinary nurse, Rachael went on to study further qualifications, becoming an assessor of student veterinary nurses and an internal verifier for Veterinary Nursing. In 2015, Rachael was awarded the ESVPS Certificate in Anaesthesia, and now appears on the ESVPS register of certificate holders.
Going on to study and gain the Diploma in Animal Physiotherapy Rachael spent time with various local physiotherapists, as well as with animal physiotherapy pioneer Sherry Scott MBE at The College Of Animal Physiotherapy.
Twelve years of veterinary nursing, rehabilitating patients, and further academic study have given Rachael a huge amount of experience, as well as a unique and in-depth understanding of common conditions gained by having spent so much time in theatre assisting with orthopaedic and soft tissue surgery.
Rachael has developed a particular passion for using Class IV laser therapy as part of the physiotherapy and rehabilitation of patients, and can occasionally be found guest lecturing at Warwickshire College, teaching students about the benefits of Physio and Laser therapy.
As an animal owner herself, Rachael realises how much we all love our horses, dogs and small animals – she is passionate about providing the best care for animals and is brings enthusiasm for imparting her experience and knowledge onto Animal Smart pet sitters and dog walkers so that they can provide the highest standards of pet care to clients.
Animal Smart Franchise Launches In February 2020
Tuesday, February 4th, 2020
Exciting times ahead as Animal Smart announce their expansion plans to take their pet sitting services nationwide.
The Animal Smart franchise opportunity will be available to animal lovers across the UK who are looking to run their own pet sitting business. Operating local branches the Animal Smart franchisees will have full training and support to provide a high quality pet care service to their local pet owners.
Although anyone joining Animal Smart franchise will need an absolute passion for animals and their care, there’s no formal qualifications required or any experience running a business as full training will be provided, both in business and animal care.
Being founded by a Veterinary Nurse it’s not surprising that there is a high level of animal training for anyone joining the franchise. As an Animal Smart franchisee there will be various animal courses, training and ongoing training so that the current high standards of pet care is maintained throughout the local branches.
Being part of a pet franchise means that the business owner is not alone and has the backing and support of a larger network. This has benefits for the pet owners as clients as they have a head office to fall back on should they need to.
The Animal Smart franchise can be operated part time to fit around school runs, other jobs or leading into retirement or can be grown into a successful full time business.
If you are interested in operating your own Animal Smart branch where you are you can find out more about this flexible opportunity on the Animal Smart franchise website here
Animal Smart New Puppy New Pet Owner Guide
Tuesday, January 28th, 2020
New puppies are arguably the most adorable creature on the planet, we certainly think so here at Animal Smart. With their big eyes and teddy bear appearance whose heart doesn’t melt.?!
However with owning a puppy comes a dogs lifetime of responsibility. The cuteness quickly becomes mischievousness and what used to be cradled comfortably in your arms grows into a rather large and sometime boisterous lump.
To be an Animal Smart pet owner we have put together some useful information that every new owner should consider before falling in love!
It’s not just about the practical factors of owning a dog and providing it food, water, exercise and care, but being a dog owner also brings some legal obligations.
Legal requirements for dog owners:
Dog Tags
Every dog that goes in a public place or highway must wear a collar with some identification on it. This isn’t the dogs name and a phone number.
The legal information is the name and address of the owner, but having a phone number on there is a good idea too. Big pet shops such as Pets at Home offer a quick tag engraving service.
Microchipping
Your new puppy might not have visited the vets yet, but when they do make sure you get them microchipped, if the breeder didn’t do that already. If the breeder did, they should have given you some paper work relating to the microchip and details of how to up date your owner information. Make sure you update the owner information with the company or if lost your dog will be returned to the current registered owner (possible the breeder).
If your not sure, don’t worry as the vets will be able to scan your puppy to check.
Since April 2006 it has been a legal requirement for all dog owners to have their dogs microchipped.
Having a microchip implanted enables local authorities or vets locate lost, stray or stolen dogs with their rightful owners.
However for that to happen you must keep your contact details up to date on the database. So if you move house or change your phone number, remember to up date the tracking database with your new details. Or little Scamp might be taken back to your old address!
Cost considerations for dog owners:
Dog Insurance
Your new puppy may have come with 4 weeks free insurance from the breeder. This gives you a bit of time to look at options of insurance. Bear in mind that if your puppy does become ill and you allow the free insurance to expire before taking out permanent insurance, the condition your puppy was ill with may not be covered by a new policy.
There are different options for the level of dog insurance. Some only cover the payment of conditions for 12 months, after which they will no longer cover that condition meaning all future vets bills relating to that condition will be down to you. Make sure you fully understand what you are covered for.
If your dog is unfortunate to get a condition and you decide you are not happy with the current insurance provider, changing insurance companies becomes difficult, as a new company is unlikely to cover that pre existing condition.
Animal Smart Puppy Safety
Your new puppy will quickly start to find their feet and become increasingly confident and inquisitive. Their little noses and mouths get everywhere. Dishwasher, washing machine, under cars, under feet…being extra aware of where your puppy is and what they are up to during time of adjustment will help to keep your puppy safe.
If you have young children with small toys or dummies, puppies will thing these make great chewing toys…Unfortunately they make even better foreign bodies and expensive vets bills!
Get your puppy their own toys so they don’t need to share those of your children. Up to around 7 months, they will be teething and will appreciate a good toy to chew on too.
You might want to invest in a stair gate. Getting up might be a challenge for some smaller breeds but getting down tricky for most young puppies, and it’s a long way to fall.
Chasing up and down the stairs also puts quite a lot of additional strain on larger breeds joints, which is to be avoided during the growing phase.
Puppy Socialization and bonding
Between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks are crucial times for socialization and bonding. Having you puppy exposed to as many different things as possible during this time will help to set strong foundations for your puppy to become a happy and well behaved family dog.
Before your puppy is fully vaccinated they won’t be able to go to a puppy class and meet other dogs, however as soon as you can, get your puppy enrolled in a puppy class. You might be confident in your ability to train your puppy yourself without the help of a class, but these classes are not just for teaching sit and stay. They are invaluable at teaching your puppy how to interact and behave around other dogs. If you are planning on taking your dos for walks in public places, to the park or on family trips out, you will want your puppy to learn this crucial social skills.
While your waiting for the vaccinations, expose your puppy to things within the home environment.
Phones ringing, door bells, doors banging, the washing machine spinning, the hoover, dropping of things, rolling of balls and objects, the hairdryer…
People socialization: when you have guests to your home, allow your puppy to meet as many of them as possible, including the postman. Don’t allow your puppy to jump up, explain to guests to only acknowledge and reward him when all his four feet are on the ground.
Outside socializations: busses, trains, people on bikes, cows, sheep, horses…
Rewarding your puppy for your desired behavior and distracting or ignoring unwanted behaviors.
Grooming is a great way for you to establish a bond with your puppy. Getting a brush or 2 from your local pet shop is plenty for you to spend some quality 1 on 1 time with your puppy.
This is also a great time to teach your puppy to be touched all over, including ears and paws. Start to open your puppies mouth and check inside. This starts them getting used to being examined and also will make introducing teeth brushing easier too.
MOST OF ALL ENJOY YOUR PUPPY
New Animal Smart Pet Sitting Service In Wrexham
Wednesday, January 22nd, 2020
It’s about time you stopped putting off that dream holiday and postponing that quick weekend getaway! At Animal Smart Wrexham, we understand that most pet parents don’t like to leave their furry friends alone at home when they go out of town. Whether your concern is the possibility of getting quality services related to dog walking in Wrexham or pet sitting in Wrexham, Animal Smart Wrexham has got you covered! Here are some of the benefits of using the new pet sitting service in Wrexham.
· Reduced risk of getting sick
One of the reasons most pet owners opt for pet sitting services over the option of driving their pet to a boarding facility is that there’s less risk of their furry bestie getting infected. Since a boarding facility usually houses different pets, there’s a good chance that you will return to pick a sick pet since quite a number of animal diseases are highly contagious. But when you hire a pet sitter, your pet will be taken care of alone without coming into contact with other sick dogs, greatly reducing the risk of illness.
· Less stress for your pet
Many pets tend to get anxious and stressed when they’re taken out of an environment they’re familiar with, and this could make them restless, attempt to escape, lose appetite and even exhibit destructive behaviors. If your pet is afraid of traveling, it makes perfect sense to use Animal Smart petting sitting Wrexham. Your pet will feel safe and secure because the look and feel of the environment are the same.
· Maintain a routine
Pets are typically creatures of routine and may become stressed, confused, and sick if there’s a change in the routine they’re accustomed to. This is another excellent reason to use pet sitting service in Wrexham since a pet sitter allows your pets to maintain a routine with which they’re most comfortable and secure. Whether your pet’s routine includes dog walking Wrexham or being fed or given medication at a specific time, a professional pet sitter from Animal Smart Wrexham will ensure that your furry friend sticks to the routine as closely as possible.
· Get pampered
Sure, you will find great people at boarding facilities that will promise quality playtime with your pet, but there’s a limit to the attention they can give your pet since they have several other pets to look after. In contrast, consider how comfortable your pet will be at home in the care of a professional pet sitter, giving him undivided attention. Your pet will be spoiled with plenty of TLC that he deserves and to the high standards you expect.
· Enjoy yourself
Leaving a pet behind for quick weekend getaway is never easy as most pet owners continually worry about whether their four-legged friends are excited or scared, relaxed or stressed, happy, or sad. This can make it hard to enjoy yourself while you’re away since you’re unsure about the state of your pet. However, a pet sitter from Animal Smart Pet Care can give you the assurance that your pet is in safe hands, and even provide you with updates in the form of emails, text messages and video calls. With this, you can kick back and relax, knowing that your pet is being well taken care of by a professional pet sitter.
Wrap-up
If you’re looking to travel out of town for the weekend or take a long holiday and you need a reputable pet sitting service Wrexham, Animal Smart Pet Care, can help look after your pets. You can expect the peace of mind that comes from hiring a professional, loving pet sitter.
Dog Walking By Animal Smart Pet Care
Wednesday, January 15th, 2020
According to a recent study, only half of dog parents walk their dogs at least once a day while a shocking 33% even admitted they rarely walk their dogs. While many dog owners have genuine reasons why they’re unable to walk their pets regularly, the simple truth is that something can still be done about it. At Animal Smart Pet Care, we offer dog walking services to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Benefits of dog walking by Animal Smart Pet Care
Wondering why your dog needs regular walking? Here are 7 benefits you and your furry friend stand to gain when we take them for walks.
- Frees up time to do other things: You love your dog, but you don’t have enough time on your hands to walk him. By using our dog walking services, you can rest assured that your dog will get the exercise he needs for good health while you get to attend to other pressing issues. It’s a win-win situation for you and your best friend.
- Helps with weight control: Obesity is one of the leading causes of illnesses in dogs as it may lead to respiratory problems, diabetes, liver disease, increased cancer risks, and more. Hiring a dog walker for a nice, long walk can help your dog stay in shape since he’s burning calories and excess body fat with each excited step he takes.
- Promote digestive/urinary health: Regular walks can help keep your dog’s digestive tract moving as well as relieve constipation. Most dogs tend to do their business while outdoors on routine walks, which means they get to empty their bladder regularly, and this can go a long way in preventing bladder infection.
- Joint health: Immobility is a common health issue in dogs, and dog walking by Animal smart pet care can help a great deal as your pooch gets to exercise his muscles pooch and joints, making them stronger.
- Mental health: Dogs are smart little creatures, and walking is an excellent way to keep their mental health in good shape. The reason is not farfetched: during walks, their senses get stimulated, and this is evidenced by the way they excitedly sniff, dig and explore new areas outside. If they don’t get mental stimulation, they may develop problems like chewing on items in the house, licking themselves, and more. Dog walking by Animal Smart Pet Care provides a vast amount of mental stimulation, which will lead to improved behaviors around the house.
- Prevents anxiety: Anxiety is a condition that’s common among pets, especially dogs that don’t go out often. If you notice that your dog is always restless, anxious, or downright destructive, frequent dog walks by Animal Smart Pet Care can help your dog release emotional stress and tension. By the time the walk is over, the chances are good that your canine would be worn out and would want just to take a nap.
- Socialization for your dog: Dog walking by Animal Smart Pet Care can help your pooch get used to being around other dogs, people, and anything else they’re bound to experience at some point in their lives. Contrary to assumptions, your dog won’t be socialized by himself; you have to take him for walks to experience the world so he can be a well-rounded canine citizen.
Wrap-up
Walking your dog is a simple task that has a positive impact on many aspects of his wellbeing, but we understand that you may not be able to do this regularly. So, let’s help you with that task so you can attend to other pressing issues.