As we gear up to celebrate Black History Month, we at Fluff Pet Sitting want to shed light on a real-life superhero who dazzled on stage and loved pets—Josephine Baker. A Dazzling Performer and Civil Rights Trailblazer Born in 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine Baker danced her way into the hearts of millions and became the toast of Europe. Moving to France as a young woman, she was the cat's meow in the Jazz Age, so much so that she earned the nickname "Black Pearl." But did you know she was not just a super talented performer, but also a super spy? During World War II, Baker used her performances as a cover to collect intelligence for the French Resistance. And let's not forget her courageous stand for civil rights back home in the United States, where she refused to perform in segregated venues and even shared the stage with Martin Luther King Jr. at the March on Washington. Josephine's Pets: More Than Just Companions But let's hit the paws button on her amazing career for a second. Josephine Baker was also an animal lover extraordinaire. From dogs and cats to monkeys and even a cheetah, Baker had a heart big enough to love them all. She often referred to her pets as her "family" and gave them the star treatment they deserved. One of Josephine Baker's most iconic pets was her cheetah, Chiquita. This regal creature was more than just a pet to Josephine; it was a part of her life, her performances, and her public image. Chiquita was a constant presence in Josephine's life, accompanying her everywhere, even to public events and performances. In fact, Josephine once brought Chiquita to a theater, so the cheetah could "see the cheetahs" on the big screen​1​. That's right, Josephine Baker, always the trendsetter, had a pet-friendly approach long before it became popular. Chiquita wasn't just a passive observer either. Dressed in a diamond collar, Chiquita often shared the stage with Josephine in Paris nightclubs. However, Chiquita had a wild streak. During performances, she would sometimes decide to jump off the stage and into the orchestra pit, causing quite a stir among the audience​1​. And when not performing, Chiquita would accompany Josephine on her walks. Imagine the scene: Josephine Baker, strolling down the famous Champs-Élysées in Paris, with a cheetah by her side. It was a sight that definitely turned heads and left a lasting impression on the onlookers​1​. Chiquita wasn't just a pet; she was a companion, a part of Josephine's performances, and a statement. Josephine's love for her pets went beyond the conventional. It was a testament to her bold personality, her love for the unconventional, and her ability to challenge the norms. So, the next time you're out on a pet walk or offering pet-sitting services, remember Josephine Baker and her cheetah, Chiquita. Like Josephine, make each moment with your pets unforgettable, filled with love, fun, and a touch of the extraordinary. Because pets, as Josephine showed us, can be so much more than just pets. They can be companions, co-stars, and lifelong friends. Fluff Pet Sitting: Your Pet's Second Family Here at Fluff Pet Sitting, we totally vibe with Baker's love for animals. Every pet, be it a dog, a cat, or an exotic pet, deserves love and the best care—whether you're home or away. That's where we come in! We provide top-notch pet-sitting services, tailored to the needs of your furry, feathered, or scaly friends. Need a professional dog walker to keep Fido fit? We've got you covered. Got a trip coming up and can't take your feline friend with you? Our cat-sitting service is purr-fect for you. And for those of you with exotic pets, our pet sitters are skilled in taking care of a variety of animals, just like Baker's diverse pet family. Celebrate Black History Month with Fluff Pet Sitting So let's celebrate Josephine Baker's legacy this Black History Month by continuing to give our pets the love and care they deserve. You can give us a try for free or meet your local sitter during a free consultation. We're here to make sure they get the star treatment, just like the pets of the fabulous Josephine Baker!

It's the season of joy, warmth, and cheesy movies that tug at your heartstrings. This Christmas, why not spend some quality time with your furry friends watching movies that are just the right amount of corny? We at Fluff have compiled a list of the top 10 corny Christmas movies you and your dog will absolutely love. So, grab your popcorn (and some dog-friendly treats), get cozy, and enjoy these films with your dog by your side. 1. "The Santa Paws" Series A heartwarming series about a group of talking dogs who save Christmas? Yes, please! These movies are bound to entertain your dog with all the on-screen canine companions. 2. "Beethoven's Christmas Adventure" Your dog might not be a giant St. Bernard like Beethoven, but they'll surely enjoy watching him save the day in this holiday-themed adventure. 3. "A Charlie Brown Christmas" Charlie Brown and Snoopy's friendship is one for the ages. This timeless classic is a wonderful movie to watch, with Snoopy's antics sure to keep your dog's attention. 4. "The Grinch" (2000) While The Grinch himself might not be a fan of Christmas, his loyal dog Max certainly is. Watching Max's joyous holiday spirit is bound to make you and your pup smile. 5. "The Dog Who Saved Christmas" This movie tells the tale of a dog who, you guessed it, saves Christmas! It's full of action, adventure, and lots of dogs. 6. "101 Dalmatians" (1996) Although it's not strictly a Christmas movie, the snow-filled scenes and cozy London townhouse in "101 Dalmatians" give it a lovely holiday feel. 7. "Lady and the Tramp" This is a heartwarming story about two dogs from different walks of life who find love. The beautiful winter scenes make it a perfect choice for the holiday season. 8. "Santa Buddies" The "Buddies" series is loved by children and dogs alike. In this Christmas adventure, the adorable golden retriever puppies must save the North Pole. 9. "A Dog Named Christmas" In this touching film, a young man with a developmental disability adopts a dog over the holidays. It's a movie about kindness, love, and the bond between humans and their pets. 10. "Olive, the Other Reindeer" This animated movie tells the story of Olive, a dog who believes she has what it takes to pull Santa's sleigh. It's a fun, lighthearted film that your dog will enjoy. Remember, the holiday season is all about spending time with those you love, including your pets. So, whether you're watching a movie or just enjoying some quiet time by the fire, make sure your dog is right there with you. After all, they're part of the family too. From all of us at Fluff, we wish you and your furry friends a paw-some Christmas!

This Giving Tuesday, we at Fluff are excited to highlight some of the most incredible animal charities out there, doing amazing work to protect and care for animals across the world. These organizations work tirelessly to provide safe environments, medical care, and loving homes for pets in need. By supporting these organizations, we are ensuring that animals everywhere can enjoy the love, care, and respect they deserve. 1. Animal Friends This shelter takes pet adoption very seriously. They are committed to finding the perfect match for you and your new pet, with a priority on avoiding any potential conflicts that could result in the pet returning to a shelter. 2. PetSmart Charities Dedicated to ending pet homelessness in the United States, PetSmart Charities funds spay/neuter programs and facilitates pet adoptions. If your goal is to help end pet homelessness, then this is an excellent charity to support. 3. RedRover This organization is there for pets and owners in times of crisis. RedRover provides shelters and care for animals displaced by events like natural disasters and offers financial help and resources for pets when their owners are going through economic hardship. 4. Animal Welfare Institute With a focus on preventing pets from being used in research facilities, ending the dog meat trade, and putting a stop to puppy mills, the Animal Welfare Institute is committed to a variety of important causes. They promise to put your donation to good use. 5. Alley Cat Allies Dedicated to improving the lives of all cats, Alley Cat Allies advocates for programs like trap-neuter-return, which allows cats to live outdoors without exacerbating the homeless population. They also respond to disasters and combat animal cruelty. 6. Friends of Animals Friends of Animals was founded in 1957 and works to end the exploitation of animals. They run a spay/neuter program partnering with 700 veterinarians across 34 states and are committed to bringing an end to puppy mills. 7. Lanai Cat Sanctuary This sanctuary provides medical help, shelter, and lots of love for over 600 cats on the Hawaiian island of Lanai, which struggles with a large stray cat population and lack of veterinary resources. 8. Pilots to the Rescue This nonprofit supports a network of trained volunteer pilots who collect animals from kill shelters and relocate them to less crowded groups or potential adopters. They're often one of the first to respond to natural disasters. 9. Rescue Rebuild This program recruits volunteers to renovate and rebuild animal shelters around the country, making them more hospitable for pets and more animal-friendly for people in domestic violence and homeless shelters. 10. Paws for Life This charity pairs dogs from shelters with incarcerated individuals who have undergone training to become dog trainers. Some of the dogs are trained to be service dogs for military veterans with PTSD, while others are prepared for their Canine Good Citizen certification and adoption. This Giving Tuesday, let's join hands to support these incredible organizations that are making a real difference in the lives of animals. Remember, no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Together, we can make the world a better place for our furry friends.

As Halloween approaches and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) preparations are underway, we at Fluff find it a perfect time to delve into some pet-centric folklore and history. Let's travel back in time to the Aztec civilization, where dogs held a sacred role not only in daily life but also in the afterlife. The Aztecs, one of the most advanced and vibrant civilizations of the ancient world, had a unique relationship with dogs. They were not only companions and protectors in life, but they also served a critical spiritual role. According to Aztec beliefs, dogs served as guides for their human companions in their journey to the afterlife. The Afterlife Journey and the Xoloitzcuintli The Aztecs believed in a complex afterlife where the soul had to undertake a perilous journey across a river in the underworld. The soul's guide on this journey? A Xoloitzcuintli, a breed of hairless dog native to Mexico, often referred to as a Xolo. The Xoloitzcuintli was regarded as a sacred breed by the Aztecs. They were often buried alongside their owners, a testament to the deep bond between the human and their loyal pet. The Xolo's mission was to guide the soul of their deceased owner across the dangerous river in the underworld, a pivotal step in the soul's journey to eternal rest. A Symbol of Love and Loyalty Beyond Death The Aztecs' belief in dogs as spiritual guides reflects the timeless bond between humans and their pets. It's a testament to the trust, love, and loyalty that our furry friends provide us every day. In the spirit of Dia de los Muertos, we can take a moment to appreciate the Xoloitzcuintli and its symbolism. The holiday is a time to honor and remember our departed loved ones, including our beloved pets who have passed on. Remembering Our Pets this Dia de los Muertos In modern times, we can integrate these ancient beliefs into our Dia de los Muertos traditions. As you set up your ofrenda (offering), consider adding a token to honor your departed pets, a nod to the ancient Aztec belief of their guiding role in the afterlife. Pet toys, collars, or even a photo of your beloved pet can be a heartwarming addition to your altar, a reminder of the love and companionship they offered during their lives. Conclusion As we approach Halloween and Dia de los Muertos, let's remember the special role that dogs play in our lives and, according to the Aztecs, in the afterlife as well. The story of the Xoloitzcuintli is a beautiful reminder of the timeless bond we share with our pets. Here at Fluff, we cherish these bonds and the important role pets play in our lives and histories. As we celebrate this season, let's remember to honor the pets we've loved and lost, knowing that just like the Xoloitzcuintli, they continue to guide us in many ways.

Thunderstorms can be an awe-inspiring display of nature's power for us humans, but for our furry companions, they can be a source of fear and anxiety. The booming thunder, bright flashes of lightning, and dramatic changes in barometric pressure can create a sensory overload for pets, especially those with sensitive hearing like dogs and cats. As responsible pet parents, it's our job to help our beloved animals navigate these scary weather phenomena. At Fluff, we understand your concerns and are here to provide some useful advice and strategies to keep your pet calm and safe during thunderstorms. Understanding Your Pet's Fear Before we delve into the strategies, it's essential to understand why thunderstorms can be so unsettling for pets. Dogs and cats possess acute hearing, far superior to ours, which makes the loud thunderclaps particularly disturbing for them. Besides, animals are finely tuned to changes in atmospheric pressure and electrical fields, which often precede a storm. This change can induce anxiety, even before the storm actually starts. Moreover, pets can pick up on their owners' apprehension during thunderstorms, which can heighten their own fear. So, it's important for you to remain calm and composed, reassuring your pet that there's no immediate danger. Tips to Comfort Your Pet During Thunderstorms 1. Create a Safe Space Find a quiet, secluded part of your home where the noise from the storm will be at a minimum. This could be a closet, a basement, or a room with no windows. Make this space comfortable for your pet with their favorite bed, toys, and blankets. 2. Use Sound Masking Techniques Playing calming music or white noise can help mask the sound of thunder and soothe your pet. There are even playlists created specifically for pets to help them relax. 3. Try a Thundershirt Thundershirts are snug-fitting garments that apply gentle, constant pressure on a pet's body, producing a calming effect. They're like a constant hug for your pet and can be particularly useful during storms. 4. Practice Desensitization Gradually expose your pet to recorded storm sounds, starting at a low volume and slowly increasing it over time as your pet gets comfortable. This can help desensitize them to the sound of thunderstorms. 5. Consult Your Vet About Medication If your pet's fear is severe, it might be worth discussing with your veterinarian whether anti-anxiety medication could be helpful. Always consult your vet before administering any medication. Conclusion Remember, every pet is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. It may take some time and patience to figure out what techniques work best for your pet. The most important thing is to provide a safe, calm environment and lots of love and reassurance during these scary times. At Fluff, we're here to support you and your pet every step of the way, come rain or shine.

As pet owners, it's our responsibility to ensure our furry friends are safe, comfortable, and well-adjusted in different environments. One such environment that can prove challenging for some dogs is water. Whether it's a kiddie pool in the backyard, a pristine lake during a camping trip, or the bathtub at bath time, getting your dog to be comfortable around and in water can be a bit of a hurdle. At Fluff, we understand this challenge and are here to help. Here's our comprehensive guide on how to properly acclimate your dog to water. 1. Introduction to Water The best way to start is by introducing your dog to small amounts of water. This could be a shallow kiddie pool or a bathtub filled with a small amount of water. Allow them to approach the water at their own pace. Encourage them gently but do not force them into the water. Remember, the aim is to make them comfortable and associate water with positive experiences. 2. Positive Reinforcement Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement. Reward your dog with treats and praises when they show interest in water or even step into it. This will help them associate water with positive experiences. 3. Gradual Exposure Once your dog is comfortable with small amounts of water, gradually increase the depth. Do this over a period of days or weeks, not hours. Let your dog get used to each new depth before moving to the next. Remember, patience is key. 4. Incorporate Play Make water activities fun. Incorporate their favorite toys or play fetch with floating toys. This can help them to view water as a fun and enjoyable place to be. 5. Swim with Them If your dog is still wary of water, try getting in with them. Your presence can provide a sense of safety and comfort. Always stay close and offer reassurances through praises and gentle touches. 6. Safety First Never leave your dog unattended around deep water. Invest in a doggie life vest, especially for dogs that are not natural swimmers. Even strong swimmers can get into trouble, so it's better to be safe than sorry. 7. Professional Help If your dog is extremely anxious around water or has had traumatic experiences, consider seeking professional help. A professional dog trainer can provide customized training methods to help your dog overcome their fear. Remember, each dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual exposure. Here at Fluff, we wish you and your furry friend a splashy good time!

Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to get out and enjoy the Triangle area with your furry friends! The Triangle, made up of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is known for being a pet-friendly region, offering a variety of activities and events for pet owners and their pets to enjoy. Here are some of the top local and relevant activities you can do with your pets this summer. Parks and Outdoor Spaces Oakwood Dog Park, Raleigh Start off your pet-friendly summer fun at Oakwood Dog Park in Raleigh. This park features a large dog area as well as a small dog area for older dogs or those that are anxious around larger dogs. Admission is free, and the park is open from sunrise to sunset every day. Enjoy a lovely walk with your pet while soaking in the summer sun at Oakwood Dog Park. Piney Wood Dog Park, Durham Another great outdoor spot to visit is Piney Wood Dog Park in Durham. The park features four separate enclosed areas - a small dog area, large dog area, program area, and entrance area. Amenities include water fountains, waste bag dispensers, benches, and a kiosk. Your pet will love exploring the different sections of this park! More information here. Southern Community Park, Chapel Hill In Chapel Hill, you can't miss Southern Community Park. This 72-acre park is equipped with trails, picnic shelters, a play area, and a dog park. After a game of fetch in the dog park, you and your pet can enjoy a leisurely walk on one of the trails. Pet-Friendly Breweries Fullsteam Brewery, Durham If you're a fan of craft beer, visit Fullsteam Brewery in Durham with your pet. This pet-friendly establishment is known for its great vibe, good music, and variety of board games. Sip on a locally brewed craft beer while your pet enjoys the friendly atmosphere. Bond Brothers Beer Co., Cary In Cary, Bond Brothers Beer Co. is a must-visit. This brewery has two locations in downtown Cary and welcomes pets. Enjoy a refreshing beer on a hot summer day while your pet mingles with other pet patrons. Sweet Treats and Activities Maple View Farm, Hillsborough For a sweet treat, visit Maple View Farm in Hillsborough. Known for their high-quality, farm-fresh milk and ice cream, this is a great spot to cool down on a hot summer day. Plus, they allow pets in their outdoor areas. Carolina Paddleboard Co., Wilmington If you're up for an adventure, try paddleboarding with your pet at Carolina Paddleboard Co. in Wilmington. They provide gear rentals and are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Carolina Paddleboard Co. offers a fun and unique experience for you and your pet. From parks and breweries to sweet treats and fun activities, there's no shortage of pet-friendly fun in the Triangle area this summer. We at Fluff hope you have a fantastic summer filled with adventures with your pet! Can't Bring Your Fur Baby to Everything? That's okay! Your babes can still have fun with their very own pet care professional. Schedule a Fluff pet sitter here!

World War II saw the deployment of many soldiers, human and otherwise. Among these were a number of animals, who served alongside troops and provided invaluable services. One such animal was a tiny Yorkshire Terrier named Smoky, who not only survived the war but also became a celebrated hero. A Mysterious Beginning Smoky's journey began in an abandoned foxhole in the New Guinea jungle in February 1944, where she was found by an American soldier. The small, young adult Yorkshire Terrier, who stood only 7 inches tall and weighed just 4 pounds, was initially thought to belong to the Japanese. However, after realizing that she did not understand commands in either Japanese or English, she was sold to Corporal William A. Wynne of Cleveland, Ohio, for two Australian pounds. A Soldier's Best Friend For the next two years, Smoky accompanied Wynne through the rest of the war, backpacking and flying on combat flights in the Pacific. Despite facing adverse circumstances such as living in the New Guinea jungle and Rock Islands and enduring primitive conditions in tents under equatorial heat and humidity, Smoky was never ill. In fact, she even managed to run on coral for four months without developing any of the paw ailments that plagued some war dogs. A Courageous Companion Smoky served in the South Pacific with the 5th Air Force, 26th Photo Reconnaissance Squadron, and flew 12 air/sea rescue and photo reconnaissance missions. On these flights, Smoky spent long hours dangling in a soldier's pack near machine guns used to ward off enemy fighters. In total, Smoky was credited with twelve combat missions and awarded eight battle stars. She survived 150 air raids on New Guinea and made it through a typhoon at Okinawa. Smoky even parachuted from 30 feet in the air, out of a tree, using a parachute made just for her. Wynne credited Smoky with saving his life by warning him of incoming shells on a transport ship, calling her an "angel" from a foxhole. More Than a Mascot In her downtime, Smoky learned numerous tricks, which she performed for the entertainment of troops with Special Services and in hospitals from Australia to Korea. In 1944, Yank Down Under magazine named Smoky the "Champion Mascot in the Southwest Pacific Area." But Smoky's tricks weren't just for entertainment – they also enabled her to become a hero in her own right by helping engineers build an airbase at Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, a crucial airfield for Allied warplanes. Honoring Her Service Smoky's story is a testament to the incredible bonds that can form between humans and animals, even in the most challenging circumstances. Her bravery, loyalty, and resourcefulness during World War II are an inspiration, showcasing that even the smallest among us can make a significant impact. As we remember the sacrifices made during this conflict, let's also remember and celebrate the contributions of this tiny hero. This Memorial Day, as we honor the sacrifice of our service members, we are happy to serve you and your pets if you are traveling. Try us for free or schedule a free consultation to learn more about Fluff and meet your local sitter.

Is it time to treat yourself? While you're putting together that perfect vacation itinerary, don't forget to include plans for your best bud! Before you decide to take them with you, make sure you ask these questions first! 1. Is my pet the traveling type? Of course, having your fur baby on vacation with you sounds like a dream! But is that what's best for your buddy? If you have a pet that hardly ever leaves home, like most cats or a caged pet, then uprooting their routine to head out on an adventure is more likely to leave your pet stressed than relaxed. Another factor is your pet's personality. Are they adventurous? Do they like car rides? Have they done well being exposed to new things in the past? You are your fur baby's expert and they trust you to make the right choice for them! Finally, you will want to consider your fur baby's age and special needs. Older animals tend to adjust poorly to change and will require extra attention and care while enduring those changes, on top of taking care of their daily needs as well. 2. Where are we going? There's no shortage of great vacation spots, but some are more accepting of pets than others. Travel experts have put together comprehensive information on the most pet-friendly destinations and we've linked them below. North Carolina: Staying local this year? VisitNC.com has put together one of the most detailed travel guides for in-state explorers! Check it out here. United States: Exploring the good ol' US of A? TripAdvisor has listed the top 20 spots to bring Spot on vacation. Unsurprisingly, North Carolina makes it on the list twice with Wilmington and Asheville. We're so proud! Check out the entire list to pick the in-country destination that's right for you. International: Time to start checking off that bucket list with some worldwide destinations! The Swiftest has compiled a ranking (and super cool infographic) of the most and least dog-friendly locations on this blue marble. Find out which countries will welcome your fur baby, and which to avoid here! 3. How are we getting there? When taking a pet along, we always recommend driving. Why? If you're in the driver's seat you have the option of decking out your car with whatever is going to make your pet the most comfortable. Plus, bathroom breaks are a non-issue if you can pull over at any time. Imagine asking your pilot to stop over because your babe is having a bad case of motion sickness. Yikes! Still, if we're being realistic, flying is inevitable for many destinations. Luckily, Martha Stewart's blog put together a list of the top pet-friendly airlines so we don't have to! Of course, you can always opt to take the bus or a train, but we wouldn't recommend it. Amtrak does allow smaller animals (under 20lbs) to travel with you but they have to stay in a carrier and there's no option for larger pets. Similarly, many national bus lines aren't as pet friendly as airlines and the experience is less comfortable for fur babies all around. 4. Where are we staying? Once you get to where you're going, where your staying has a big impact on your trip! If you have your pet with you, staying with a friend or relative might be best. If that's not an option, make sure you check a hotel's pet policy before booking. Airbnb has updated their search feature to include adding pets as guests as well so you don't have to guess if your fur kid is welcome! Looking for something a little more niche? The best dog-friendly hotels across the country are compiled here! 5. Do I have the right gear? It's one thing to remember your own packing list but there's a whole slew of items your pet needs when they travel. Though we could go crazy with the number of pet items available for travelers today, we've made a basic list of all your pet's travel needs in our travel guide. (Note: Though our packing list is timeless, our travel guide includes information on airlines and hotels that may be out of date. Always check with the company you're traveling with for updated information.) 6. What are my other options? Okay, so you've asked all the right questions and thought it through. If you don't think bringing your pet with you is the right option, that's okay! You should always consider what's best for your pet and act accordingly. If you're leaving your fur baby behind, here are some options: Friends or Family If you have a good group of people who can watch your babes when you're out of town, great! Just be sure that you aren't introducing your pet to an environment with other animals that they don't get along with, or where there's already a large number of pets. Also, don't assume that because they know you that they understand your pet. Make sure if a friend or family member is in charge of your fur kid that they have a full, detailed understanding of your expectations and that you discuss these matters before you leave. Professional Pet Care We happen to know a lot bit about the pet care biz! Though kennels and doggy daycare are possible options for shorter getaways, your dog may run the risk of injury or illness when exposed to other dogs with different personalities from different backgrounds. Plus, many places stick to caging your pet for the majority of the time with just a short potty break a few times a day. For this reason, we always suggest using an in-home professional pet sitter. We've laid out all the pros and cons and the individualized care your pet gets from a professional just can't be beaten. Still undecided? Try Fluff for Free! Making the right choice for your pets is hard. It's much easier when you know what you're getting yourself into. That's why we always suggest trying out our service for free first. With a free visit, you'll be able to see how your pet will react to a new person in the home, and you'll know what to expect when you're away. Each visit comes with a full report, pictures, and a GPS map of your sitter's route during the visit. So don't torture yourself with worry during your vacation. Get prepared now!

We're excited to announce that our iOS app is undergoing some much-needed repair! If you are a new client, please follow the Android and Desktop instructions for creating your account. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us directly at 919-414-8083 or via email at contact@fluffpetsitting.com. We look forward to helping you and your fur babies!

Valentine's Day is right around the corner! Planning your day with your significant other may be fun, but not as fun as the day you could be having with your fur baby. Here are some great pet date ideas so you can let your pet know how much you love them this Valentine's Day! 1) Treat Yourselves What's a better way to share the love than to enjoy some of your favorite treats together? Enjoy a once-in-a-while dessert and stock up on your pet's favorite high-value snack. We all know the best way to someone's heart is their stomach! 2) Go Shopping Take a little time to splurge together by brining your babe to the local pet store. Being able to enjoy an environment with new and enticing smells is always a good time for pets. Just be careful not to break the bank when they give you those puppy-dog eyes! 3) Have a Picnic What's better than a walk in the park? A walk in the park with food at the end! If the weather permits, take your four-legged buddy with you on a walk or hike with a picnic destination in mind. Make sure to pack collapsible dishes and fresh water for your fur kiddo. 4) Spend Quality Time Together Studies show that your fur baby wants your attention more than anything (yes, that includes treats). So even if you don't plan an extravagant day together, your pet will appreciate some quality time all the same. This could mean extra playtime, practicing training and tricks, or just snuggling on the sofa together. Whatever you do, don't let your fur kid spend their Valentine's Day alone! If you've got plans with your human love bugs this Valentine's Day, that doesn't mean your pet can't enjoy some extra special attention. At Fluff, we provide in-home pet care so your fur babies get individual and customized care from our sitters. Meeting your local sitter is free to do and doesn't obligate you to use us. Get your free consultation here!

We're still in the first month of the year...much too early to give up on those New Years Resolutions! For those who decided to be less wasteful this year, you may have already reduced the amount of plastic you use, started recycling, or installed a new shower head. What you may not want to overlook are the few changes you can make with your fur baby to live an even more sustainable lifestyle. Here are a few simple things you can do to get started! Buy Food in Recyclable Packaging Next time you're out of your fur kiddo's food of choice, check the packaging before you buy. There are plenty of brands that sell their food in recyclable packaging. If you can't find food suitable for your fur baby in a completely recyclable package, most brands tend to layer their packaging with plastic but have a paper lining as well. If these layers can be separated, you can recycle the paper and toss the plastic. It's a tiny change, but every little bit helps! DIY Treats Most pet-related waste is from the plastic packaging they come in. Instead of buying pre-packaged treats, make some at home! Look for fun and simple recipes you can make at home. Not the cooking type? That's fine too! Canned vegetables, like green beans and plain pumpkin, make an awesome snack for doggos and they come in recyclable cans! Use Sustainable Litter There's a lot of litter options out there. Some litter choices are chock-full of chemicals and materials that are difficult to produce or negatively affect the environment when thrown away. Instead, you can switch to a sawdust or paper based litter to reduce some of the (stinky) trash your litter makes. If your cat is picky and you can't change litters, check to see if their favorite brand comes in cardboard or recyclable packaging. Purchase Recycled Pet Waste Bags A good poopy bag is an important tool for any pet parent. Sturdy bags made of recycled plastic are easy to find online or in local pet stores. Even better, if you have plastic bags around the house that would wind up in a land-fill anyhow, use those instead! How do We Try to Keep the Environment Clean? At Fluff, we opt to equip our sitters with pet waste bags that come from recycled materials and train sitters to recycle pet food containers whenever possible. We also do our best to assign sitters as close to your home as possible. Not only does this save on gas and emissions, but it also ensures your local sitter is close enough to help out at the drop of a hat. If you want to meet your local sitter to make sure they're a good fit for your fur babes it is free to do and doesn't obligate you to use us. Get your free consultation today!