Here you will find important information regarding your pet.  Use this page as a resource and check back often for updates!

Finding Rental Housing That Accepts Pets
“13 Steps to Finding Rental Housing That Accepts Pets” highlights steps for landlords and rental managers along with owners of pets looking for rental property to implement an effective pet-friendly policy. According to the HSUS, millions of dogs and cats would be placed in homes if more rental housing permitted pets. For information or to order copies of this brochure go to www.rentwithpets.org

Keep It Low Key – 10 Tips to Head Off Separation Anxiety
Does your dog get upset every time you leave the house? Do you come home from work to discover your dog has destroyed your living room? Boredom often causes destructiveness and misbehavior, but it could also signal a bigger problem.

Here are ten possible solutions to help curb your dog’s separation anxiety:

1. Hire a professional pet sitter in your local area. Having someone come in to break up the day for your pet relieves a tremendous amount of stress. To locate a good, reputable pet sitter that is credentialed, log onto www.petsit.com or www.petsitters.com
   
   

2. Resist reinforcing the cycle of anxiety in your dog by not making a big deal out of your exists and entrances. Spend a few minutes before you leave and after you arrive doing things while ignoring your dog.
   
   

3. If your dog goes wild for attention the second you walk in the door, resist petting it every other time it demands attention. This helps teach your dog it can’t manipulate you to get attention.
   
   

4. Teach your dog the “Sit” and “Stay” commands. These will help it remain relaxed in one spot, such as a dog bed, as you leave. Reward your dog with praise or treats when it performs “Sit, stay” starting at 10 seconds; gradually increase the time.
   
   

5. Step up the exercise regimen. Spend at least 15 to 20 minutes twice a day walking and playing with your dog to make it ready to relax and sleep while you’re away.
   
   

6. Give your dog a “job” when it’s home alone. Hide kibble throughout the room to which your dog is confined. If your crate the dog, see the next tip for time-consuming toys.
   
   

7. Provide your dog with suitable chew items, such as a long-lasting food treat, only when you depart. Fill a hollow, rubber toy with cheese, peanut butter, or pieces of kibble for your dog to lick and nose out. Your dog will associate this special treat with your departure.
   
   

8. Practice your exits by going outside and waiting until your dog quiets down for three seconds. Then go back inside and quickly reward it for being calm. Gradually work up to five to 10 minutes, as long as the dog remains quiet before you return inside.
   
   

9. Make a tape recording of normal household sounds when you are home and leave the tape playing for comfort when your dog is home alone.
   

10. Consult your veterinarian about your dog’s diet. Some dogs experience less fear and anxiety when switched from a high-protein, all-natural diet food without any artificial preservatives.

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