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San Francisco Dog Walkers deal with Foxtails

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Tips from San Francisco Dog Walkers – Costly Foxtails

All Dog Walkers should tell you the faster you get the dog to the vet, the less it will probably cost to get the foxtail removed.

So, as soon as you dog shows symptons, such as shaking head or holding head to the side, or licking paws flapping ears or sneezing violently, run, don’t walk him to your vet. If the vet does not have to put the dog under to retrieve the foxtail, the cost may be around $150 for removal.  However if you wait a day or two before taking the dog to the vet, the foxtail will travel further up the canal and the cost jumps up around $500 – $1,000 because it now has to be surgically removed.  If the foxtail causes an infection because you waited too long, the trip to the vet could run you at least $1,000.00 to $2,000.00!   Not removing the foxtail is very dangerous and can be life threatening to the dog because the foxtail penetrates the skin and moves through the bloodstream towards the heart or brain.

 

San Francisco Dog Walkers should always tell their clients to check for foxtails during the spring and summer months following hikes.

San Francisco Dog Walkers Photo of Foxtail

Foxtails come from the grasses and are in all of the parks in San Francisco.  When pulled apart, the are little arrow shaped pointed stickers that it can burrow into your dogs’ paws, ears, nose, eyes and fur coat.

ON A DAILY BASIS, during foxtail season (when grasses are dry) it is VERY important to check between your dogs’ toes (look up into the cavity of each toe and feel around in there); and to thoroughly feel around in the dog’s fur for foxtails.  I try my best to remove the foxtails I find on the dogs after the walk, but it is always good for the owner to also check, as foxtails can and often are, missed.

If your dog begins sneezing violently, even if they stop for a day or two, they most likely have a foxtail in their nose.  The worst places to get foxtails are in the ears, eyes and noses because it is very difficult to find and remove them, once they enter these areas on your dog.

San Francisco Dog Walker photo of foxtails before they drop
San Francisco Dog Walkers share how to keep your dog from getting foxtails:

■ Keep your pet’s fur coat super short during Spring, Summer and Fall months in San Francisco, especially between the toes and around the ears.

■ Long-haired dogs are most prone to having foxtails attach to their fur and embed in the skin.  Keep those feet and legs short!

■  Avoid walking your dog in areas where dry grass is prevalent.  Take your dog to concrete paths or parks that do not have foxtails.  (easier said than done, lol)

■ Prime areas for foxtails to penetrate the skin of an animal are between the toes, in and around the ears, nose, armpits and genitalia. Animals with foxtails under the skin are often licking the affected area where a red bump may be seen.  Don’t ignore your dog if they are licking a spot!

■ When returning home from a walk or hike in an area that has foxtails, examine your dog thoroughly and remove any foxtails you might find before they have a chance to burrow into the skin.  Also look for and remove burrs at the same time, for your dog’s comfort.

4 Reasons Why You Should Take Your Dog to Dog Training Classes

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Leash PullingMany pet owners add a furry friend to their family to enjoy an adorable puppy for cuddles, playtime, and companionship. They may take their pet to all necessary veterinary appointments and hire professional dog walking services to help with exercise. However, they may forget an important part of care giving, signing their dog up for dog training classes.

If you are one of these people who believes organized obedience or training classes are not necessary, these top reasons may help you change your mind.

  •  Correct Unwanted Behaviors Before They Get Worse
    Without effective guidance, your dog may develop unwanted behaviors or even aggressive responses to different situations or stimuli. 1For example, they make growl or display other possessive actions over toys, food, or specific people. Excessive barking or destructive tendencies are two common complaints that may get help from dog training classes.
  • Improve Control and Safety For Your Dog
    Pet safety depends largely on the amount of control you have over your dog’s actions. This includes their containment and access to issues inside the home, when visiting other locations, at the dog park, and with their dog walker in San Francisco. Dog training classes start with the basics of sit, stay, come, heel, down, and no. If they master these commands, you, your dog walkers and dog service provider have an easier time controlling them in potentially hazardous situations.
  •  Socialization Helps in Many Different Environments
    A large part of the safety equation involves socialization with other animals and people. Everyone wants a well-behaved pooch not only because it makes every interaction in public with them easier and more rewarding, but also because it alleviates stress for the dog themselves. Training classes that extend into different environments improve social behavior even in crowds and loud or busy places. Socialize your puppy or new dog with a wide variety of people so they do not display any anxiety or aggression. Always practice the commands and behaviors you learn in a controlled space elsewhere, too.
  •  Good Leash Etiquette Makes Walks Safer and More Fun
    Whenever you snap on your dog’s leash and head out for a stroll around the block or an adventure at a local park, it is an opportunity for fun, exercise, and bonding. The same holds true when you hire an expert dog walking service like mine. The last thing you want is for a walk to turn into a stressful, frustrating, unsafe event. One of the most important skills to learn at dog training classes involves leash etiquette. 2Coupled with the heel command, your furry friend can learn to walk without pulling and other negative behaviors.  Safety is the number one concern so your dog does not either injure you or themselves with sudden movements or speed changes.  Fun is an amazing by-product of loose leash walking and good leash manners that come from comprehensive dog training courses.

 

Reference Links:

1 https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues
2 https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-puppy-walk-leash/

 

Why it is Important to get Pet Insurance for your Dog!

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Why It Is Important to Get Pet Insurance for Your Dog?

As a San Francisco dog walker, I’ve seen countless dogs live their best lives, exploring parks, making friends, and thriving in the city’s vibrant environment. But I also witnessed the dark side—the surprise disasters and medical emergencies that leave dog lovers searching for the cure. And that is why I think getting insurance for your dog is one of the best things you can do for your dog. It is not only about money but about your pet having the best care possible, no matter the situation.

They’re Not “Just a Dog”—They’re Family

You may kid yourself into thinking that they are “just a dog,” but the truth is you love them like family. So, when something happens to them, you want to do the right thing and rush them to the vet’s office. Then comes the realization that the cost could be thousands of dollars, and you stubbornly tell yourself again that they are “just a dog.” But when the time comes, your heart will be broken and never repair. The guilt over losing your best friend because you couldn’t afford a procedure will stay with you for a lifetime.

As someone who spends a significant amount of time caring for dogs, I’ve seen this heartbreak in others, and it’s a situation no pet parent should have to endure. That is why dog pet assurance is so important. It allows you to focus on your dog’s health without worrying about expenses.

The Rising Costs of Veterinary Care

High-quality veterinary care does not come at a low cost. Purchasing the best treatment is unlikely without insurance — pet parents make do with less because they cannot afford the cost of a better treatment that would serve their pets well. With pet insurance for a dog, paying the bill money is never a problem for you. Not only do you get the best care possible, but the big payoff is the peace of mind knowing that you have done everything possible for your BFF.

San Francisco is known for its world-class veterinary clinics, but those services come at a price. The costs can add up quickly, whether it’s a routine checkup or a critical surgery. For city-dwelling pet owners, insurance acts as a safety net, ensuring you can always say “yes” to your dog’s care.

Comprehensive Coverage Makes a Difference

One of the pet insurance companies that I often talk about with my clients is called PETPLAN. Although I am not personally experienced with their service, this insurance covers many things other insurance companies need to do.

For example, they cover costs for:

      • Veterinary exams visits for injury or illness
      • Cancer treatments like chemotherapy
      • Surgery & physical rehab
      • Hereditary diseases like hip dysplasia
      • Periodontal disease & dental injuries
      • Chronic conditions like ear infections
      • Prescription medication

They also will cover up to 90% reimbursement and have unlimited annual coverage.

It has revolutionized coverage for pet owners. I have watched clients with the means to pay for their dog’s chemotherapy or a seemingly never-ending chronic condition say, “Well thank goodness we don’t have to even think twice about treatment since we are insured.” Not to mention, the smaller but more common expenses, like routine dental cleanings or an ear infection, can quickly add up during the year without insurance, too.

Choosing the Right Pet Insurance

The best advice is to compare pet insurance companies and pick the one with the most coverage. Dog pet insurance plans vary widely, and finding one that fits your needs and budget is essential. Consumers Advocate recently did objective research to create a guide—assisting pet owners in the essential points one should consider when making decisions on pet insurance. I figured you might be interested in reading it. I’ve added a link to the full guide below:

Consumers Advocate Guide to Pet Insurance

The guide gives detailed information about several providers to help you select a policy that suits your pup’s requirements. Whether it is for hereditary diseases, routine care, or emergencies, there is a plan for everyone.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The mistake that I see pet owners make most frequently is waiting too late to get insurance. Emergencies don’t come with a warning, and if your dog develops a pre-existing condition before you purchase a policy, that condition likely won’t be covered.

For instance, a simple limp could be a sign of hip dysplasia or a torn ligament—expensive issues to diagnose and treat. Without pet insurance for a dog, you may face tough choices about your dog’s care. With it, you can proceed confidently, knowing you’re doing everything possible for your furry companion.

Why I Recommend Pet Insurance for Dogs

As a San Francisco dog walker, I’ve cared for dogs from all walks of life, and one thing remains consistent: unexpected health issues happen. From playing at the park to mystery illnesses, the peace of mind with dog insurance is worth its weight in gold! I have seen too many owners get paralyzed with a tough decision to make simply because they never foresaw this moment.

Whatever you do, do not procrastinate too long, or you might live to regret it. Pet insurance is an investment in your dog’s health, happiness, contentment, and peace of mind. To your dog, you are more than their human companion; you are family, and they deserve the best care.

Manage Your Dog’s Weight!

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Fat Dogs

Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Diet for Overweight Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Many of my clients have started services with my dog walking company after they have decided that their dog has gained too much weight and they don’t know what to do about it. The problem is that just like with people, exercise helps but it is not the complete cure. You have to cut back on your dog’s food intake too.  An appropriate diet for overweight dogs is key to helping them shed pounds and stay healthy.

By following a structured dog diet chart for weight loss and making mindful changes to their eating habits, you can manage their weight effectively while improving their overall quality of life.

Eliminate Treats to Start the Weight-Loss Journey

I tell my dog walking clients that the very first thing that they must do immediately is CUT BACK ON TREATS!  Even food scraps at the table, can add inches very quickly to your dog’s waist. Your dog is probably 1/8th your size, so try to remember that before you offer something to eat.   A balanced diet for overweight dogs must eliminate these unnecessary calories. Small changes, like cutting out table scraps, can make a significant difference. Even a seemingly harmless piece of cheese can have an outsized impact on your dog’s weight.

An overweight pet is predisposed to many problems in their senior years such as back/ hip issues, torn ACL’s, arthritis and diabetes. Even if your dog already has any of these conditions, it can still be improved if you reduce your dog’s weight. So, if you want your dog to live a long, healthy life, it is imperative that you keep their weight in check at every stage of their life. Of course, it is your choice whether or not you keep your dog’s weight in check, but the fact is that your dog may need to be euthanized earlier than it’s life-expectancy because they can no longer walk or that their pain level has worsened and no longer can be controlled. It is just a simple fact that overweight dogs just do not live as long as fit dogs do.

So now the question is, what is the right weight? This is something that causes difficult conversations with dog owners because people tend to be super sensitive about their dog’s weight and often do not see them as being fat. Look at your dog from top and then at their sides and you should see a waistline. When viewing them, be honest. They should look slim and you should be able to feel their ribs easily. One tip is to google facts about your breed and see what the web says your dog should weigh. If you have a chow hound, you should try to stick to a program that will help your dog achieve the googled amount. Another tip that will help you is to always use a measuring cup or scale when preparing their meals. Make sure you are giving them the same amount of food everyday.

Cutting out human fatty type foods may seem like a small change to you and that it doesn’t make sense that it would do anything to improve their waistline. How can this work? What’s a small piece of cheese going to do to my dog? Again, please try to remember that your dog is very small in comparison to yourself and that a small piece of cheese is probably equal to a whole pizza for us humans. If you give a small 10 pound dog a piece of cheese, try to think of it as giving yourself 15 times that amount.

If your dog sleeps most of the day while you are at work, those calories are just sitting there not being burned off. After time, these calories start to add up quickly and you wind up with a fat dog, just because you were giving them a small piece of cheese on your way out the door.  As dogs age, they naturally slow down and will gain weight due to less activity, so that you probably will not notice until someone points it out to you.Also, as they age their weight will change naturally and is not always a cause for concern.  Just like people, the more exercise they get the more muscle mass they build, which causes the scale to rise.  This is not a bad thing, as long as the dog looks slim and is very active, not sleepy.

You need to get real with yourself about how many calories in a day you are giving your dog. Once you have done that initial analysis, you can then begin the process of deciding how you will attack this problem. Starting out slowly is a good idea. Like us, when you decrease your dog’s food intake, they will probably feel hungry and beg for treats. You have to stay strong, but you also must have some compassion for them. Start by cutting out the treats and then in a week or two cut their food intake by 1/3. Stay at this measurement for a couple of week and evaluate if your dog is losing any weight. It is a slow process but remember, you have to stay the course. And one more thing, you need to remember is that your dog walker will be providing your dog with treats when they are in the park. We have to give dogs treats to keep them motivated and moving in the right direction. It is hard to keep a pack of dogs moving in the same direction and treats really help with that task. So please, do not compound the problem by adding treats on top of the dog walker’s.

If you really love your dog, you will feed them a healthy diet and give them daily exercise. Consider using a dog walking service while you are at work. This will keep them living a very long life. My dogs live an average of 15 years and I truly believe that it is due to their daily walks. We don’t want them to die from weight related complications before they are a 15+ aged senior dog.

The Risks of Overweight Dogs

An overweight pet is predisposed to many problems in their senior years, such as:

  • Back/hip issues
  • Torn ACLs
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes

Even if your dog has any of these conditions, they can improve if you reduce their weight. A proper dog diet chart for weight loss and daily exercise can help alleviate some of these symptoms and extend their life.

So, if you want your dog to live a long, healthy life, you must keep their weight in check at every stage of their life. Overweight dogs do not live as long as fit dogs do. 

Of course, it is your choice whether or not you keep your dog’s weight in check, but the fact is that your dog may need to be euthanized earlier than its life expectancy because they can no longer walk or their pain level has worsened and can no longer be controlled. It is simply that overweight dogs do not live as long as fit dogs do.

Determining the Right Weight for Your Dog

The next step is determining whether your dog is at a healthy weight. So now the question is, what is the right weight? This causes difficult conversations with dog owners because people tend to be super sensitive about their dog’s weight and often do not see them as fat. Look at your dog from the top and then at their sides—you should see a waistline. You should also be able to feel their ribs easily. 

One tip is to search for your breed’s ideal weight online or use a dog diet chart for weight loss to see their weight range.

If your dog is over their ideal weight, it’s time to adjust their diet and food portions. Always use a measuring cup or scale to prepare meals and ensure consistency.

Choosing the Best Food for Dog Weight Loss

Choose foods specially made to help you manage your dog’s weight. Generally speaking, the best dog food for weight loss is low in fat and high in protein, with enough fiber to keep your dog feeling full. This lowers their caloric intake while preserving their energy levels.  Pet stores carry more of the high end choices, where you should spend some time reading ingredients on packages and asking store owners for advice.

The following advice will help you make your decision:

  1. High-Quality Ingredients: Choose food with lean proteins, as they support muscle retention during weight loss.  Don’t go to the grocery store and buy Alpo or any cheap canned/dry food for your dog. Be sure there are no Meat by-Products, or chemicals or dyes added
  2. Calorie Count: Check the calorie content to ensure it fits into your dog’s weight-loss plan.
  3. Avoid Fillers: Stay away from foods with excess fillers or artificial ingredients that add unnecessary calories.

Feeding your dog the right amount of a balanced, weight-management formula can make all the difference in their health journey.

Practical Tips to Help Your Dog Lose Weight

Portion Control

Cutting out human food may seem like a small change to you, and it doesn’t make sense that it would do anything to improve their waistline. How can this work? What’s a small piece of cheese going to do to my dog? Again, please remember that your dog is very small compared to yourself and that a small piece of cheese is probably equal to a whole pizza for us humans. If you give a small 10-pound dog a piece of cheese, try to think of it as giving yourself 15 times that amount. Use a dog diet chart for weight loss to guide your portions. Stick to a fixed amount of food daily and measure it accurately to avoid overfeeding.

Gradual Reductions

Start by cutting their food intake by 1/3. Stay consistent with this new portion size for a few weeks and monitor their progress. Adjust as necessary based on results. Combine this with feeding your dog the best food for dog weight loss to accelerate their progress.

Consistent Exercise

If your dog sleeps most of the day while you are at work, those calories are just sitting there not being burned off. After a time, these calories start to add up quickly, and you wind up with a chubby dog just because you were giving them a small piece of cheese on your way out the door. And no chubby dogs are not cute!  Walks or play sessions every day can help them burn extra calories.  Consider hiring a professional dog walker to make sure they get exercise when you are too busy to take them to the park.  And no, a leashed walk around the block to poop on your neighbors lawn is not enough exercise. Off-leash walks or play sessions at the dog park every day can help them burn extra calories as they run free with joy chasing after their furry friends.

But Here is a Reality Check!

You need to get real with yourself about how many calories you give your dog in a day. Like I said a chubby dog is not cute and they are also not cute when they constantly beg for more treats. When they do this, their whole being in life is focused on junk food.  You don’t want your kids to do this, so quite giving you dogs so many treats.  When I take them to the park, they get treats at the end of the walk, when they get into the truck and into their crates. Some people lead the dogs around the park holding a treat up to their noses the whole way.  Cute but really ineffective.  Don’t you want them to smell the trees and grass?  Notice other dogs?  Chase after balls?  And come to you because the love and respect you.  My dogs do not get treats in the park, unless it is an emergency situation.  And they learn to come to me when I call them, not because they hear a treat bag rattling.  I am so proud of the little pug who scampers when I blow the silent dog whistle.  Now that is an accomplishment without any treats!

Once they get into this mode of constant treats, they only focus on food. Once you have done that initial analysis, you can decide how to attack this problem. Starting slow is a good idea. Like us, when you decrease your dog’s food intake, they will probably feel hungry and beg for treats. You must stay strong, but you must also have some compassion for them. Start by cutting back the treats, then cut their food intake by 1/3 in a week or two. Do not leave food sitting in their dish.  Take it away if they do not finish it in an hour.  This is how you get picky eaters that wait for treats instead of food.  Stay at this measurement for a couple of weeks and evaluate if your dog is losing any weight. It is a slow process, but remember, you must stay the course. And one more thing you need to remember is that your dog walker will provide your dog treats when they are in the park. We must give dogs treats to keep them motivated and moving in the right direction. It is hard to keep a pack of dogs moving in the same direction, and treats really help with that task. So please, do not compound the problem by piling treats atop the dog walkers portion.

Final Takeaways:  A Balanced Lifestyle is the Key

Keeping a healthy dog healthy weight is a work-in-progress that may last for years, but certainly one that is well worth the effort. Choosing the top diet for dog weight reduction and portioning your dog with similar measures every day can change your dog’s wellbeing and happiness.

A healthy diet for overweight dogs is more than just cutting calories—it’s about creating a balanced plan that supports their overall well-being. If you really love your dog, you will feed them a healthy diet and give them daily exercise. Consider using a dog walking service while you are at work. This will keep them living a very long life. The Facts

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight?

To determine if your dog is overweight, visually inspect their body shape. Look at them from above—a noticeable waistline should be behind the ribs. From the side, their belly should tuck up rather than hang down. If these signs are absent or you have difficulty feeling their ribs through a light layer of fat, your dog may be overweight. Use tools like a How to Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight Chart for guidance.

Further Ways to Tell if your Dog Is Overweight

Apart from visual cues, monitor their activity levels. Overweight dogs often tire quickly and struggle with basic movements like climbing stairs. You can also consult your vet for an evaluation and use breed-specific charts or calculators for a precise answer.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog to Lose Weight?

The amount to feed depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Begin by reducing their regular portion by about 20–25% and monitor their weight weekly. A How Much to Feed Overweight Dog Chart can provide tailored guidance. For example:

Dog Weight (lbs)

Calories per Day (for Weight Loss)

10–20

200–400

30–50

500–800

60–80

900–1,200

 

What Is the Best Food for Dog Weight Loss?

The best food for dog weight loss is one formulated specifically for weight management. Look for high-protein, low-fat options with added fiber to keep your dog feeling full longer. Brands that offer tailored diets often include calorie counts on their packaging, making portion control easier. Consult your vet for the most suitable choice.  Also, if you add green beans, carrots and broccoli to their meal when they are puppies, they will get used to eating veggies and it fills them up without adding too many calories.

How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Lose 1 pound?

A dog will typically lose a safe rate of 1–2% of their body weight per week. For a medium-sized dog, losing 1pound might take 4–6 weeks with consistent dieting and exercise. The duration depends on factors like metabolism, diet, and activity level.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog to Maintain Weight?

Once your dog reaches its ideal weight, feed it enough to maintain it. Use a How Much to Feed a Dog Per Day Chart as a guide. Maintenance typically involves feeding slightly more than during weight loss but continuing to monitor their weight regularly. A common maintenance calculation is 25–30 calories per pound of body weight per day.

How Big Will My Puppy Get?

Predicting a puppy’s adult size depends on its breed and growth rate. Small breeds tend to reach full size by 12 months, while larger breeds might take up to 18–24 months. A growth chart specific to your dog’s breed can help estimate their eventual size.

 

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Manage Your Dog’s Weight!

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