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The San Francisco Dog Walker

Dog Care Tips

3 Reasons Consistent Exercise is Essential for Your Puppy

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Puppy wanting to go out for a walk
Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Reasons Consistent Exercise is Essential

 

Welcoming a puppy into your home is a joyful experience, but it comes with responsibilities, including understanding their exercise needs. With their outgoing natures, pups need a ton of physical and mental stimulation to develop properly. But contemporary life can make it difficult to make sure your dog gets enough exercise – navigating work, family, and other responsibilities can make this a challenge.
For new and existing dog parents, regular walks and exercise is a must. We provide you with “what the benefits of walking a dog, and why exercise is necessary for their health, behavior, and happiness”.

Why Dogs Need Walks Off-leash at the Dog Park

The Pandemic brought an entirely new wave of dog ownership. Many people adopted their first puppy or rescue, given the additional time they were spending at home, while existing dog owners were soaking in all of the time they were able to spend with their pup thanks to being at home all day. Though dog owners have been able to be at home more over the last year and a half, that doesn’t always mean dog owners are exercising their dogs as much as they should. After all, many dog owners still spend most of their day working while they’re home, unable to step away for the lengthy walk their dog needs.

Whether you are still able to work remotely, or you are now working in-person again, your dog needs to be getting consistent exercise. From the expertise of a San Francisco dog walker, here are three reasons exercise is so essential to you pup’s life:

1. Consistent exercise combats obesity

Perhaps the most obvious, though still extremely important, benefit of consistent exercise is the decrease in the likelihood that your dog will become obese. Even if you are feeding your dog the right amount of food, avoiding table scraps, and monitoring their treat intake, they will start packing on the pounds if they aren’t getting the exercise they need. Obesity is just the first red flag to a dog’s health. After a dog becomes obese, it is subjected to many other health concerns no one wants their best pal to endure – all avoidable with a dedication to regular exercise.

Obesity not only shortens a dog’s lifespan but also leads to health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Establishing a routine walk for dogs is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent these issues. Exercise guides can ensure you strike the right balance between activity and rest, preventing them from overexertion while helping them build healthy habits.

2. Exercise Promotes Joint Health

Beyond the damage obesity can do to your dog’s joints, stiff joints can be problematic in and of themselves. Proper exercise for your pooch keeps their joints moving in their full range of motion while strengthening the muscles around their joints – fantastic ways to reduce arthritis pains in the future. Consistent movement also helps prevent accidental joint injuries (from a particularly energetic play session, for example).
For young dogs, adhering to puppy exercise guidelines is essential to prevent damage to their developing bones and joints. Activities like walking are low-impact yet effective ways to build strength and flexibility. Puppies exercise chart can help you determine how much to exercise a puppy based on age and breed, ensuring their joints are well-supported for years.

3. Walking a Dog Provides a Vital Outlet

Consistent exercise helps both your dog’s physical and mental health – great for you and them. Without the right stimulus, dogs can become anxious and restless. Those symptoms can be displayed in different ways, but commonly, especially with puppies, your dog might lack the obedience you know they are capable of. Perhaps they don’t listen to verbal commands or recall as well as they should, or perhaps they start releasing their energy in unwanted ways (like chewing on furniture or digging in the carpet/the backyard). Reliable exercise can help you avoid those problems and have a happier pooch.

A proper exercise regiment should include regular walks for mental stimulation. Exploring new sights, smells, and sounds during a walk for dogs satisfies their natural curiosity and prevents boredom-induced behaviors. Puppies who get enough mental engagement are less likely to develop destructive habits.  It also helps your dog build trust and confidence in you and in their environment.  Off-leash allows your dog to go at their own pace, usually provides a longer, more exciting walk and allows them to explore their surroundings.

As a Dog Walker in San Francisco, I often add exciting sports and group activities, which will also burn excess energy and really give your dog a proper workout. This allows them to build social skills, while also developing common training practices like catching, running back and forth, and staying within a designated play area.

Integrating Exercise Into a Busy Schedule

As a dog owner, you may have noticed a need to help your dog get better exercise recently, which likely led to Google searches like “dog walker SF.” If you are new to dog parenthood and are beginning to notice some behavioral changes in your pandemic pup, you may now realize that point three (shared above) has become an issue. Whatever the case, allow me to help you conveniently build consistent exercise for your dog into your schedule. As a professional dog walker in San Francisco, I could help you and your dog with exercise and any issues.

FAQ: Your Questions About Puppy Exercise Answered:

Why is exercise important for puppies?

Exercise is crucial for puppies because it supports physical development, builds strength, and prevents obesity. Following an exercise guide for puppies ensures they get the right amount of activity for their age, breed, and health, fostering mental and physical well-being.

What happens if I don’t exercise my puppy?

If you don’t exercise your puppy, they may develop behavioral problems such as anxiety, restlessness, and destructive habits like chewing or digging. Physically, lack of exercise can lead to obesity, joint stiffness, and poor muscle development. Regular walking a dog is an essential part of their growth and happiness.

Is it important that puppies get enough exercise?

Yes, puppies must get enough exercise. Proper activity levels, as outlined in puppy exercise guidelines, help them develop healthy joints, muscles, and cardiovascular systems. It also prevents health issues later in life and ensures a balanced temperament.

At what age should I start exercising my puppy?

You can start exercising your puppy when they’ve completed their vaccinations, usually around 12–16 weeks old. However, follow a ppuppyexercise chart to ensure you’re providing age-appropriate activity. Short, gentle walks and play sessions are best for young pups.

How much to exercise a puppy?

The amount of exercise a puppy needs depends on their age, size, and breed. A general rule is five minutes of exercise per month of age, up to twice daily. For example, a 3-month-old puppy can enjoy 15-minute walks twice a day. Always adhere to exercise guidelines for puppies to avoid overexertion.

Why do dogs need walks?

Dogs need walks to maintain physical health, mental stimulation, and socialization. Walking a dog also provides essential bonding time and helps prevent obesity, joint issues, and behavioral problems. It’s one of the most effective ways to ensure your dog leads a happy and balanced life.

Consistent exercise is vital for every dog, whether a puppy or an adult. So follow these tips and utilize a puppy exercise chart, and your furry buddy will become the new proud consequence of the household.

The simple act of going for daily off-leash walk in the park will make all the difference in your dog’s life!

 

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How to Remove Ticks on Dogs

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The San Francisco Dog Walker’s Guide

 

Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

San Francisco Dog Walker

While ticks may seem like little nuisances to our canine companions, they can carry illnesses threatening health. As dogs spend warm seasons roaming the great outdoors, these parasites cling to their fur. An informed owner knows ticks endanger more than our dog’s comfort—detection and disposal defend against diseases spread.   However, vigilant examination and effective removal can eliminate the hazards of hitchhiking ticks.

Most Common Ticks in San Fransisco

The American dog tick

The American dog tick is perhaps the most well-known of the North American hard ticks. This tick does not carry Lyme disease but can carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. As a San Francisco dog walker, I have encountered them numerous times.  The American dog tick

 

The black-legged tick

The Western black-legged tick lives in the western part of North America and is responsible for spreading Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It tends to prefer livestock such as cows as its adult host.  The Western black-legged tick

 

Why Ticks Are Dangerous for Dogs

Ticks are external parasites that latch onto your dog’s skin to feed on their blood. Unfortunately, ticks can transmit Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. That makes it critical to understand how to get rid of dog ticks quickly and effectively. Golden Gate Park and Fort Funston are crawling with ticks. Even if your dog has prevention, such as a tick collar, they still crawl off of him and on to you! Be sure to check your dog over carefully when you return home and frequent grooming and chemicals for control may help to control the spread.

Ticks can detect heat emitted from dogs and humans from far distances and will often situate themselves on well traveled paths to gain access to hosts. They will generally drop off the animal when full, but this may take several days. In some cases ticks will live for some time on the blood of an animal. Ticks are more active outdoors in warm weather, but can attack a dog at any time. Ticks can be found in most wooded or forested regions throughout the world. As a San Francisco dog walker, I find that they are especially common in areas where there are deer trails or human tracks. Ticks are especially abundant near water, where warm-

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can be lethal. Initial signs and symptoms of the disease include sudden onset of fever, headache and muscle pain followed by development of rash. The disease can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, and without prompt and appropriate treatment, it can be fatal. Tetracycline has dramatically reduced the number of deaths caused by Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.  Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 

 

The San Francisco dog walkers top tips

Video/How-to-Remove-a-Tick-from-Your-Dog watch this video for more tips!

 

Frequent grooming and chemicals may help control the spread.  Check your dog over when you get home. Put your clothes in the dryer on high heat or just simply wash them in hot water.  Be sure to check yourself over too!

 

Tools You’ll Need for Tick Removal From Dogs

Before you begin the process, gather the following tools to ensure you can safely handle tick removal from your dog:

Tick Remover Tool or Tweezers: Designed for safe and effective tick extraction.

Gloves: Protect your hands from direct contact with ticks.

Antiseptic Solution: This is used to clean the bite area after removal.

Sealable Container: This is for storing the tick if testing for diseases is required.

Magnifying Glass: Helps spot small ticks that are difficult to see.

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and reduces the risk of leaving parts of the tick embedded in your dog’s skin.

 

The San Fransisco Dog Walker Tips: How to Remove Ticks From Dogs at Home

If you’ve discovered a tick on your dog, here’s how to remove ticks from your dog at home safely:

1. Prepare and Restrain Your Dog

Keep your dog calm and still to make the removal process easier. You can use a leash, treats or another person to help gently hold your dog in place.

2. Find the Tick

Ticks like hot places in the body, like on the ears, under the collar, in the armpit, and between the toes. Unearth your dog’s fur with a magnifying glass if you want.
Ticks can detect heat emitted from dogs and humans from far distances and will often situate themselves on well-traveled paths to gain access to hosts. They will generally drop off the animal when full, which may take several days.

3. Remove the Tick

Using a Tick Remover Tool: Slide the tool under the tick and gently twist it to remove it completely.
Using Tweezers: Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible without pinching your dog. Pull upward slowly to remove the tick without breaking it apart.
Ticks are more active outdoors in warm weather but can attack a dog anytime. In some cases, ticks will live for some time in the blood of an animal.

4. Dispose of the Tick

Place the tick in a sealable container or submerge it in rubbing alcohol. If you suspect it may have transmitted a disease, save it for testing.

5. Clean the Area

Use antiseptic to disinfect the bite site. Monitor the area for signs of redness, swelling, or infection.

 

Common Tick Hot Spots and Prevention Tips

Ticks are a vector for diseases and thrive in areas frequented by warm-blooded animals. As a San Francisco dog walker, I find ticks are especially common in places with deer trails, human tracks, and water sources where animals come to drink.

Ticks can be found in most wooded or forested regions throughout the world. In San Francisco, areas like Golden Gate Park and Fort Funston are hot spots. Always check your dog after walks, as ticks often hide in shrubs and meadows and brush near woody surfaces.  Golden Gate Park and Fort Funston are crawling with ticks. Even if your dog has prevention, such as a tick collar, they still crawl off of him and onto you!  Frequent grooming and chemicals may help control the spread.  Check your dog over when you get home. Put your clothes in the dryer on high heat or just simply wash them in hot water.  Be sure to check yourself over too!

 

Preventing Tick Infestations

While knowing how to get rid of dog ticks is important, prevention is even better. Here are tips to minimise your dog’s exposure:

Buy Tick Preventative Products: Pick veterinarian-approved products, such as collars and topical or oral medicines.

Look Your Dog Over After Walks: Check their coat and skin closely, looking in common hiding places for ticks.

Avoid the Tick Zones: Avoid high grass, brushy paths, and hot mattress area constraints.

Groom Regularly: Brushing helps remove ticks before they latch onto your dog.

Maintain Your Yard: Clean your outdoor space by mowing the lawn and trimming bushes.

 

When to See a Veterinarian

Seek your vet within 24 hours for any signs of fever, lethargy, joint pain, or swelling around a bite. Identifying and treating tick-borne diseases early is important to keep your dogs safe.

 

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Dog Tick-Free

Knowing how to get rid of ticks on dogs is a must if you own a dog. Whether you handle tick removal at home or be proactive, keeping your pup safe takes diligence and consistency. Watch for ticks after going to tick-heavy areas like Golden Gate Park or Fort Funston.

Following this guide and incorporating regular grooming, chemical preventatives, and routine checks ensure your dog stays healthy, comfortable, and tick-free. Let ticks be one less thing to worry about while enjoying the outdoors with your furry friend!

Hire a Dog Walker Today…

 

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What you Need to Know about Tennis Balls

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

 

Roxy Fun At Beach with Ball

As a dog walker in San Francisco, I’ve seen countless dogs that absolutely light up when they see a tennis ball. Does your dog love to chase after tennis balls? Even, perhaps, a little obsessed about it? You’re not alone—many dogs go wild for the thrill of fetching these bright green toys. While it’s great to see them having fun, there are a few important things to consider when it comes to dogs and tennis balls.

The Joy (and Risk) of Tennis Balls

Tennis balls are a fantastic way to exercise your dog and keep them mentally engaged. I’ve used them countless times to tire out a high-energy dog at Golden Gate Park or Fort Funston. However, as fun as tennis balls are, there’s a hidden risk most dog owners don’t think about.

Something you need to keep in mind is that a tennis ball is made of abrasive material that can quickly wear down your dog’s teeth. Some dogs love them so much that their teeth have ground down to little nubs. That is important because a dog must have their teeth last a lifetime, and you definitely want to protect them whenever you can.

Alternatives to Traditional Tennis Balls

If your dog is one of those tennis ball fanatics, it’s worth considering alternatives to protect their teeth. Rubber chuck-it balls are a great substitute. These balls are durable, easy to clean, and, most importantly, don’t have the abrasive properties of regular tennis balls. When I take dogs out to the park, I always recommend owners switch to rubber balls if I notice excessive wear on their teeth.

So, why don’t more people make the change to rubber balls? For starters, not all dogs experience dental issues with tennis balls. It’s a matter of keeping an eye on your dog’s teeth to determine if adjustments are necessary. Another factor is cost—rubber balls tend to be pricier, and if your dog has a habit of leaving their toys behind in bushes or tall grass, it can get expensive quickly.

Safety Tips for Tennis Ball at Play

As a dog walker, safety is always my top priority, which extends to playtime with tennis balls. Here are a few tips to keep your dog safe while they’re having fun:

  1. Inspect Your Dog’s Teeth: Regularly check your dog’s teeth for signs of wear. If you notice flattening or chipping, it’s time to reconsider tennis balls.
  2. Monitor Their Play: If your dog is chewing aggressively on the ball, take it away and redirect their attention to a chew toy. Chewing can turn a harmless game into a dental hazard.
  3. Beware of Squeakers: If your ball has squeakers, keep an eye open to ensure your dog does not chew the ball to get the parts out. They can choke on the squeaker parts inside the ball if they get them out. Always supervise squeaker play to prevent accidents.
  4. Replace Damaged Balls: A torn or damaged tennis ball can become a choking hazard. Toss it out and replace it with a fresh one.

The Joy of Fetch Without the Risks

Playing fetch with tennis balls is a wonderful way to bond with your dog and give them the exercise they need. But, as with all aspects of pet care, balance is key. Whether I’m out on a walk with a pack of dogs or playing one-on-one with a client’s pup, I always keep an eye on the toys they’re using to ensure they’re both fun and safe.

If you’re worried about the risks associated with dogs and tennis balls, switching to rubber balls or mixing up their toy selection can make a big difference. This is another way in which your dog will still be getting all of the fun involved with your dog chasing and retrieving something because it can be kept fun but not cause any lasting dental problems.

Closing Thoughts

Every dog is different, and some may have no issues with tennis balls at all. However, it’s important to keep an eye on their behavior and their teeth. I am a dog walker and have witnessed how many dogs adore their tennis ball play and the issues it can lead to. So be proactive and consider using things like rubber chuck-it balls; that way, both your furry friend and your wallet will be ready for the next adventure!

So whether your dog spends time poking through the dog-friendly parks of San Francisco or is just playing in your yard, a touch of extra attention to your pup’s toys is good insurance. Oh, and you really should also peek inside those bushes—no one likes to see their favorite ball lost to the foliage!

Do you know your Poisons?

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Do you know your Poisons? Common Poisons for Dogs

As a dog walker in San Francisco, I’ve witnessed just how curious dogs can be. From sniffing every corner of Golden Gate Park to poking their noses into unexpected places, their curiosity often leads them into trouble. One of the most critical issues I’ve encountered is the risk of exposure to common poisons for dogs. Knowing what’s dangerous to dogs can save a life, especially when time is of the essence.

Here’s an overview of some of the most dangerous substances for dogs and tips on how to keep your furry friends safe.

What Is Poisonous to Dogs?

Everyday substances can poison dogs, many common in households or public areas. While walking dogs in neighborhoods or parks, I’m always cautious of what they might ingest. Poison in dogs often comes from things we wouldn’t expect, such as foods, medications, or chemicals.

Here are the ones to look out for!

Medications

Over-the-counter human medications can be extremely toxic to dogs. For instance:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil) can cause gastrointestinal irritation, stomach ulcers, and kidney damage.
  • Naproxen (Aleve) has a long half-life in dogs and can cause gastrointestinal irritation, anaemia, melena (digested blood in feces), and vomiting

Antifreeze

Antifreeze is very dangerous to dogs and causes central nervous system depression and acute renal failure. Treatment needs to be within eight hours of ingestion to be successful.

Mouse and Rat Poison

Mouse and rat poison ingestion is common in dogs. Most rodenticides in the United States are anticoagulant by depleting Vitamin K. This type is the most frequent cause of poisoning in pets. Third generation products contain brodifacoum or bromadiolone and are toxic after a single ingestion. Signs include spontaneous and excessive bleeding internally and externally. Treatment is with Vitamin K supplementation. Other rodenticides may contain cholecalciferol which causes hypercalcemia and leads to heart and kidney problems. Newer rodenticides may contain bromethalin which causes central nervous system signs such as seizures, muscle tremors, and depression.

Environmental Poisons

Environmental hazards are everywhere in San Francisco, from parks to sidewalks. Here’s what I watch for during our walks:

Insecticides

Insecticides used in dogs for fleas and ticks commonly contain either organophosphates or carbamates. they can be absorbed through the skin, conjunctiva, gastrointestinal tract, and lungs. Organophosphates inhibit acetylcholinesterase irreversibly and carbamates inhibit cholinesterase reversibly. Toxicity occurs through over-dose with an appropriate product or use of an agricultural product. Signs for both include hyper-salivation, vomiting, lethargy, tremors, difficulty walking, weakness, and death.

Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is uncommon in dogs. Exposure to lead is from eating paint chips from lead-based paint (found in houses painted prior to 1950), and eating lead objects such as shot, fishing sinkers, or counterweights. Signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, blindness, seizures, and tremors.

Foods That Are Poisonous to Dogs

Certain foods that are harmless to humans can be deadly to dogs. While walking dogs in San Francisco’s parks, I often remind owners to keep snacks securely out of reach.

  • Raisins and Grapes: Even small amounts of raisins or grapes can cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and a loss of appetite.
  • Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, found in sugar-free gums and candies, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
  • Alcohol: Even tiny amounts can lead to poisoning, causing confusion, vomiting, or worse.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a common cause of poisoning in dogs. The toxic principles in chocolate are theobromine and caffeine. Baker’s chocolate is the most dangerous form since it contains higher concentrations of these drugs, followed by semi-sweet, dark, and then milk chocolate. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, difficulty walking, seizures, and heart problems.

Chocolate is a common cause of dog poisoning and one I’ve seen too many times. The toxic ingredients in chocolate are theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize much more slowly than humans. Different types of chocolate pose varying levels of danger:

  • Baker’s chocolate is the most dangerous, with the highest concentrations of theobromine and caffeine.
  • Semi-sweet and dark chocolate follow in toxicity.
  • Milk chocolate is less toxic but can still cause problems in large quantities.

How Much Chocolate Is Dangerous to a Dog?

Even a small amount of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Larger amounts may lead to difficulty walking, seizures, or heart problems. Owners often ask me, “How much chocolate can a dog eat before it becomes dangerous?” The answer varies based on your dog’s size and the type of chocolate, but any amount is potentially harmful. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and avoid letting your dog consume chocolate at all.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Poisoned

If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, time is critical. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control centre immediately. Bring the packaging of the substance or a sample of what they consumed to assist with diagnosis.

How to Prevent Poisoning in Dogs

  1. Secure Your Home: Keep medications, foods, and cleaning products out of reach. Store these items in cabinets or containers that your dog cannot access.
  2. Supervise Outdoor Time: Pay attention to what your dog sniffs or eats during walks. That is especially important in areas like Golden Gate Park or Fort Funston, where hidden dangers like rodenticides or chocolate crumbs might lurk.
  3. Be Prepared: Learn about what is poisonous to dogs and how to respond in an emergency.

A Final Note: Staying Safe Together

As a San Francisco dog walker, I see firsthand how quickly dogs can get into trouble. By staying informed about common poisons for dogs and being proactive, you can protect your furry friend from harm. Whether knowing how much chocolate is dangerous to a dog or spotting hazards like antifreeze spills, vigilance is key. Let’s work together to ensure our dogs live happy, healthy lives in our beautiful city!

 

 

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Rubber Collars?

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Posted by The San Francisco Dog Walker

Sherpa 325px

Recently, I took one of my labrador retrievers swimming at McLaren Park.  After about a week of daily swimming, the dog seemed to get some kind of bacteria infection on it’s neck.  Little did I know that when the dog lays on it’s wet collar on the way home, this caused a stinky problem. I found a collar on the internet made by Dublin Dog Company that seems to combat this problem.  The collars are created from a special blend of synthetic polymers that won’t absorb moisture, retain dirt, or harbor bacteria.  If your dog loves to swim, check out the “No Stink” collar from Dublin Dog Company.  You can even find them on Amazon!

Neighborhoods Serviced: West Portal, Forest Hill, Parkmerced, St. Francis Wood, Merced Manor, Inner Parkside, Inner Sunset, Monterey Heights, and Golden Gate Heights!

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