Start a pet sitting service (and quit your job)

how to quit your job to start a pet sitting business

I quit my job at a newspaper in 2008 to start a pet sitting business. now I offer pet dog walking in Solana Beach, Calif.

Quitting my job was scary, and it’s not the ideal choice for everyone. If you are thinking of leaving your job to pursue full-time pet sitting or pet dog walking, I’m so ecstatic for you! here are my ideas to make the process easier:

How to quit your job to start a pet sitting business

1. establish some pet sitting clients first.

Establish at least two or three regular pet dog walking customers or five or six pet sitting customers before you quit your job. You’ll want a lot more clients for pet sitting because these clients will be a lot more sporadic for scheduling. some of your pet dog walking customers will likely be each day or several times per week. here are some ideas for how to get a lot more pet sitting customers. give yourself at least three months to start getting some customers while still working your full-time job.

2. start saving money.

If you can save up at least two months of normal living expenses before quitting your job, you will be a lot a lot more confident about leaving your job. I understand this is much harder if you’re supporting a family. I only had to worry about myself, but one thing I told myself when I quit my job was this: If you need to pick up a part-time job, you can. You’re an intelligent person, and you’ll figure out a way to make it work.

I did end up taking a part-time job a few months after I quit my job, but it didn’t last long. I realized swiftly my time was valuable, and I was much better off spending it promoting my pet sitting business. This paid off in the long run.

3. look into COBRA continuation health coverage.

COBRA supplies some former employees, spouses and dependent children with the ideal to temporarily continue health insurance coverage under the group rates the employer offers. For me, that indicated I could quit my job and still receive the group health insurance rates for the next 18 months which happened to include vision and dental coverage. even though I had to pay out of pocket, this was an amazing benefit because it was much more affordable than seeking out new coverage on my own, which I chose to do once the 18 months was up.

I also made sure to quit my job on the first of the month so that COBRA did not kick in until the following month. This was a trick the great human resources employee told me about. (I was going to quit July 31 but she encouraged me to work through Aug. 1). This was a big deal at the time because it gave me one a lot more month before I had to pay out of pocket for health insurance coverage.

4. walk dogs on the weekends.

Schedule as lots of appointments as you can for the weekends or your other days off. create a waiting list for all other times. You could offer pet sitting check outs on the weekends such as Friday evening through Sunday night.

5. keep a waiting list.

It’s crucial to keep a pet dog walking/pet sitting waiting list while you still have your full-time job. once you’re ready to quit your job, you can contact the people on your list and tell them you will have pet sitting or pet dog walking openings available starting on a certain date. For example, if someone requests pet dog walking on Wednesdays but you currently work Wednesdays, you would add the person to your Wednesday waiting list.

You don’t even have to specify why you have a waiting list. maybe you have a waiting list because you are that busy. This will happen eventually!

6. start calling yourself a pet sitter.

When people ask what you do, tell them you own a pet sitting business. This is crucial for believing in yourself and getting in the mindset that you are a successful service owner. I had a hard time with this at first because I did not believe I could actually make it as a service owner. I had to get rid of the mental obstacle of believing in myself.

7. Don’t give complimentary pet sitting to pals and family.

You’ve probably been supplying your pals and family with complimentary pet sitting. once you’re committed to starting your own pet sitting business, I recommend you start charging your pals and family at least a little. If you spend all your time using complimentary care for pals and family, it will take away your time and energy from your paying customers. Paying customers are crucial to have when you’re thinking of quitting your job!

8. Network within your community.

You need to get your service name out there. Do this as soon as possible while you are still working, because it takes a few months to build up some solid customers. To advertise your pet sitting service through word of mouth, get involved in your community, particularly with pet-related events. introduce yourself to other service owners, set up booths at pet-related festivals and fundraisers, hang fliers at the pet dog park and coffee shops. get your name out there!

9. get your web site and social media sites ready.

Sometimes people use the excuse that they can’t start their service until their web site is perfect. That is a mistake. but you do want to get something on your web site. If you have a respectable web site, people will take you seriously. WordPress has tons of professional-looking designs you can choose from.

In addition to your pet sitting web site, you must create social media accounts for your business. You don’t have to go crazy and use every single social media site, but at least get a Facebook fan page and Twitter account set up. I also provided my Solana beach pet sitting service on Google +. once you have these accounts set up, start genuinely interacting with people and services within your community.

10. Leave your job on good terms.

Put in your two-week’s notice and tell your boss your plans to start your full-time pet sitting business. No matter how your employer responds to this, remain positive about your experience with the company. tell your employer and supervisors you are grateful for everything you have learned while working for them (even if it wasn’t much). It’s crucial to remain on good terms. who knows, maybe they’ll recommend your pet sitting services to all the other employees.

Best of luck to you with your business!

Want to learn a lot more about starting a pet sitting business?

Read my ebook on how to start a pet sitting business. It is the best resource available for starting a pet sitting business!

Sign up for my pet dog walking and pet sitting email list and get professional ideas from me once a month.

Uncategorized

My Betta Not Eating? typical reasons for Loss of Appetite

Why is my betta fish not eating?

Among the things which concerns us betta owners is if our bit guy won’t take in — potentially even for a couple of days.

Even a betta fish not eating might be troublesome as a lack of wish may often be a indication of the underlying issue.

If you are wondering,”What’s that my betta fish not eating?” There are a couple of actions that you can take to diagnose the problem as well as return your fish into its routine diet.

Some Bettas Can Be Picky Eaters

From the wild, carnivorous fish, like bettas, eat prey which wiggles around as well as seems yummy. young captive-bred fish can likewise be often fed foods. When a betta fish isn’t eating pellets, then it may only be since the meals offered is not intriguing enough. have a look at our guide on the finest betta fish foods .

Betta pellets are packed with nutrients as well as are simple to provide to some fish. however to a fish, they may not look like food in any type of respect, or else they may taste dull in comparison to what they are used to.

Additionally, this is a regular response to why a brand new betta fish isn’t eating. It was likely being eaten dwell, freeze-dried, or frozen foods which seemed, to itlike actual food.

To lure a betta that won’t eat, think about integrating some range to your own diet plan plan. It’s possible for you to provide online brine shrimp or freeze-dried bloodworms.

Intersperse those feedings utilizing all the food that is cooked and, frequently, great deals of bettas will most likely be more happy with a diverse diet plan program as well as will definitely come to observe the pellet meals as similarly as yummy.

In the extremely very first case, think about changing his food up. just exactly how old is that bathtub of meals anyway? perhaps it’s time to purchase a brand new backpack bundle !
Temperature Changes

Bettas are tropical fish. They prefer warm water somewhere between 74 as well as 82 degrees Fahrenheit. suppose a betta fish water temperature drops below .

If that’s the circumstance, it can result in a range of issues, including slowing the fish digestive procedure . Fish which aren’t digesting foods properly may stop eating since they are uncomfortable.

Cold water may likewise result in anxiety, which may cause a reduction of desire.

To prevent any type of unforeseen water temperature fluctuations, you should have a heater in your own betta fish tank. You’ll have the capability to location your furnace to a specific temperature as well as preserve that temperature stable.

Since the water from the storage tank pops up, the betta should return to eating normally.

Water high quality Changes

Among the most regular responses to”What’s that my betta fish not eating?” Is poor water quality. Bettas are usually put in smaller tanks, as well as this likewise usually means that the water as well as storage tank may get filthy extremely fast.

Dirty squander or water in the base of the storage tank may cause chemicals inside the water, for example ammonia, into spike. These compounds are poisonous to fish. As time passes, the compounds can result in considerable health and wellness issues, as well as among the preliminary indications is a shortage of appetite.

To preserve the water immaculate, prevent overfeeding. Overfeeding contributes to a fast accumulation of waste. You might even scoop any type of squander in the base of the storage tank as well as then bring out partial water modifications each week.

Your storage tank should have a filter. most filters may get rid of squander whilst at the exact same time providing a location for advantageous bacteria, which will assist to take in up compounds as well as develop.

A aquarium test set will be able to assist you track the compound levels in your aquarium as well as likewise preserve whatever balanced.

Stress as well as Infection

If a betta fish isn’t eating, it may be associated to illness or stress. To determine which may be the trigger, see your fish carefully.

A betta that resides in a bit storage tank or has been put with erroneous tankmates, or even has a number of hiding areas might quickly ended up being worried. stress and anxiety is likewise a regular reason a new betta fish isn’t eating.

A surprising modification of scenery, bright lights, or even an extreme amount of action can make bass nervous.

To make a betta fish feel much more comfortable, keep the region around their storage tank composed as well as not excessively bright. You may even add plants or alternate hiding areas to produce them feel much more secure.

Offering more space as well as preserving the betta by itself only with rather tranquil tankmates that will not sip fins is likewise a great idea.

If you believe stress and anxiety is not the matter, your betta may be ill. assess for signals of discomfort, like lethargy or a irregular swimming routine. It is likewise possible to begin looking for white areas across the human body or fins.

Bloating, tattered fins, or blisters can likewise be symptoms of unique disorders.

Various disorders, if fungal, bacterial, or parasitic in nature, should be treated otherwise. The extremely finest technique to take care of your fish would be to make specific that the water stays so neat as possible as well as can be present in the appropriate temperature range.

Afterward, research study your fish symptoms as well as inspect to discover out what the suggested therapy is. Some disorders might be treated with house remedies, though some are going to need a specific medication.

Overfeeding of Betta Fish

When a betta fish isn’t eating pellets, then it may only be since they are not hungry. This is often true when a betta has been overfed.

Bettas have little intestines, so they just need four to six capsules twice each day, or the equivalent in live, frozen, or even foods that are sour. Overfeeding may not just cause your own betta fish to stop eating however may likewise lead to excess squander from water. Overfeeding likewise often contributes to health and wellness problems such as coronary artery infection or constipation.

To prevent overfeeding, watch your fish each time that it eats. If you autumn in a couple of pellets together with the fish just occupies one or 2, you may select to reduce. Either provide fewer pellets at every feeding or feed your fish when each day.

A betta fish that is not eating might be a issue, however taking actions to find the fish as well as determine the underlying reason can frequently enable you to quickly address this.

Assessing for migraines, diseases, or fluctuations in water or temperature illness can normally response concerns that you have concerning your betta’s lack of desire. offering high high quality online or foods that are salty may likewise assist entice even the pickiest fish to consume.

Have you got a betta that is not eating? Please make us a comment or concern below.

Our hints:

Provide online or Spicy foods to lure picky bettas.

Purchase an original bundle of meals. That opened bundle might have ended up being stale as well as tasteless.

Assess water parameters as well as preserve your aquarium as remove as you can.

Evaluation for almost any type of spikes in compound amounts.

Be sure that the water temperature stays between 74 as well as 82 degrees Fahrenheit as well as likewise has not fluctuated.

Provide more space or more hiding areas to alleviate anxiety.

Assess for disorders as well as treat them so.

Survey: What is your rescue group doing well?

What is one thing your rescue group is doing well that you wish every group could do?

Many of you volunteer with shelters or rescue groups, and we can all learn something from each other.

So here’s my question:

What is one thing your shelter or rescue group is doing well that you wish every group could do?

Maybe it has an awesome program to thank all the volunteers. maybe it hosts a dog friendly 5K run. maybe it has some sort of free cat promotion.

Whatever it is, I’d love to hear it. then we can all “steal” one another’s ideas, and imagine what we could accomplish. I’ll ask the question on Facebook and Twitter too and compile all the answers for you.

So … I’ll leave you with one example. then I’ll get out of the way so you can share yours.

In my community of Fargo, N.D., I love how CATS Cradle shelter has found a way to provide cage-free housing for all its cats. The cats get to live in open, “community style” rooms, and I would love if every shelter had this possibility. It’s so much better for the cats than living in small, dirty cages.

What’s one thing your rescue group is doing well that you wish others could do?

Good dogs, poor owners: October 2011

The very first edition of great dogs, poor owners

Note: I see a great deal of fascinating dog owners. I may try to showcase my favorites each month. 

At an adoption event at a PetSmart. Some dude approaches me as well as my foster dog Cosmo. The guy tells me he is looking for an outside watchdog. Cosmo would have full flexibility outside – no fence – with gain access to to the garage as well as the kitchen. He tells me the home is on a hectic frontage road as well as their previous watchdog got hit by a vehicle as well as “probably wandered off as well as died.”

At a store called natural Pet Center. A guy is available in with a frantic, overweight retriever on a prong collar. “Are you prepared to see the kitties?” the guy says. He repeats this a number of times. The guy glances around, seeking attention. His retriever pulls him to the cats that are up for adoption. The cats are extremely uneasy. “Look at the kitties! look at the kitties!” the guy keeps repeating. Each time he states this, his dog barks.

At obedience training class. One bit dog’s owner is having an off night. The dog is full of energy, as well as the owner can’t get her to stay on command. He can’t get the dog to even look at him. At the end of class, the owner tells the dog she won’t be getting dinner that night or breakfast the next day or dinner the next day. “Maybe she’ll listen then,” he tells his wife. I wait to see if he’s joking, however I don’t believe he is.

At one more adoption event. A couple walks in with two big dogs that are not up for adoption. The dogs are pulling as well as out of control, panting heavily. One dog goes with the slow, squatting motions as though he’s prepared to take a dump. He’s clearly extremely excited as well as nervous. He proceeds to leave a nice stack in the middle of the floor. The owners stand there for at least five minutes before somebody lastly cleans it up.

On a walk. I see a lady park her vehicle at a stop sign. She leaves her vehicle running. gets out. leaves her excessively excited Yorkie loose in the car. She puts up a yard-sale sign. Her vehicle is blocking all type of traffic, not to mention illegally parked. Meanwhile, her dog is yapping as well as scratching at the windows as well as doors as well as bouncing around the place.

What’s a dog to do, Ace?

If you have a story to share, keep it concise (less than 100 words) as well as send to Lindsay@ThatMutt.com with the subject “Good dogs, poor owners.” Or add it to the comments below.

Uncategorized

Guide to Peacock Gudgeon care

The Peacock Gudgeon is a remarkably stunning and distinct Freshwater fish which all aquarists should think about.

Not only do they look great, but they are pretty easy to care for. They do not require conditions which are hard to maintain, plus they get together with lots of different species.

This manual on Peacock Gudgeon maintenance will instruct you every thing You have to learn whether you would like to have yourself. You will find general tank conditions, tank mates, breeding tips, and much more!

Frequently overlooked as a acceptable option for a neighborhood Volcano, Peacock Gudgeons are splendid fish with different and pleasurable characters.

They’ll add both life and charm to your aquarium surroundings and you’re going to delight in developing relationships together.

Additionally, they Aren’t hard to look after (though They’re, by all reports, picky eaters.) They’re fish that carry out nicely with others at the aquarium.

We’ll present you to this Peacock Gudgeon, covering their own history and origin, and inform you all that you want to learn about caring for the beautiful creatures.

Let’s dive in to research their behaviours, look, best tank requirements, diet, and breeding so which you are able to identify if Peacock Gudgeons are all optimal for you and your own tank community.

Peacock Gudgeon species Summary

The Peacock Gudgeon (Tateurndina ocellicauda) is an lively freshwater fish that is endemic to shallow bodies of water from Papua new Guinea. They are also located through new Zealand and Australia.

Though the fish are occasionally known as the Peacock Goby, they’re not a part of their Goby household. rather they belong to both the Eleotridae and will be the sole members of this Tateurndina Genus.

Nowadays, many of That the Peacock Gudgeons you find in fish markets have been bred in captivity. They’ve grown rather well known in the fish area. As their name might imply, their striking appearances are reminiscent of peacock feathers!

The fish leaves an wonderful addition to any tank. Thoughthey need some special care to make certain they remain healthy, lively, and so forth.

Peacock Gudgeon Review

The Term peacock arouses a direct visual of this splendid Bird with dynamic feathers entirely open. The Peacock Gudgeon is justifiably known as after the famed bird, wearing myriad colours and patterns in their bodies, for example, signature peacock eyespot.

The Peacock Gudgeon, scientific title Tateurndina Ocellicauda appears from Papua new Guinea. located in freshwater preferences, Peacock Gudgeons are found in Australia and new Zealand.

Occasionally known as Peacock Goby, the Peacock Gudgeon doesn’t really belong to the Goby household; rather, it is a part of their Eleotriafe family and also the sole species from the genus Tateurndina.

Even though They occur in Oceania, numerous Peacock Gudgeons marketed For home tanks are used in captivity. easy to look after, Peacock Gudgeons are an outstanding alternative for beginner amateurs, and interesting enough to pique the eye of even the very experienced aquarist.

The hobbyist will have to pay a bit much more attention to care in regards to breeding those fantastic allure, and, much like aquarium habitants, supplying high quality nourishment and beautiful tank states.

Peacock Gudgeons will love a lush and adorned environment and wonderful filtration.

Average Behavior

A typically serene neighborhood member, the Peacock Gudgeon Won’t stir up the turf when they’re about other fish which will also be non-aggressive.

They want to maintain teams of 6-8, however can do just fine at a couple — just be certain that you have a minimum of one pal in their opinion.

At times the men from the group will probably find a bit hot under The fin and become competitive with one another, but tempers typically amazing fast, and accidents are rare.

The many fun you will have is seeing the Peacock Gudgeons Swim and play the plants in their environment. It is so gratifying to see these spectacular and lively fish swim about with unabashed pleasure. It boosts the hobbyist’s mood simply viewing them .

If they are feeling very untethered and serene, you’ll find them Swim out from the open, practically like exhibiting their distinctive look.

Professional tip: It is very essential to note the Peacock Gudgeons Are talented jumpers, which implies you’re going to need to be certain your aquarium has a skillet.

Ensure you offer these Peacock Gudgeons lots of Hiding areas so they have an escape ought to they are feeling threatened.

Peacock Gudgeon’s Look

Peacock Gudgeons are quite a pleasure to behold. together with their dynamic coloration and touch peacock eye, so these tiny fish actually add life and sparkle to a aquarium neighborhood.

The entire body of this Peacock Gudgeon is a silvery blue with reddish Lateral dots. As we said, even though they’re occasionally known as gobies, they aren’t accurate gobies and don’t have the fused pectoral fins which indicate a real goby.

Their bellies are coloured in a bright yellow color, and you’re going to notice yellow on the border of the fins. females can be differentiated from the additional black stripe in their fins.

Obviously, the above eyespot at the bottom of this Tail fin is the way the Peacock Gudgeon has its title.

Along with this blackfin stripe in females as well as the eyebrow hump from the men, it is possible to differentiate males and females with their own length, with men being somewhat shorter than men.

Females also create a clear yellow patch on the stomach when they’re planning to spawn.

Juvenile Peacock Gudgeon

It requires about 6 to 8 weeks for youthful Peacock Gudgeons to reach adulthood. They may develop a bit larger following this stage, but they’re essentially full-size.

Lifespan

In terrific Conditions, the common Peacock Gudgeon lifespan is between 4 and 5 years .

While that is not as long as numerous additional freshwater fish speciesthat these fish will certainly get the absolute many from the time on your own tank. They have special personalities and do not mind displaying.

Size

The common size for That a Peacock Gudgeon is roughly 3 inches . females typically only achieve spans of about 2 and a half inches.

Most juvenile fish will reach adulthood sometime between 8 and 6 weeks. They will be near complete length at this point, though a few will develop a bit larger in these months.

Habitat along with tank Conditions

Peacock Gudgeon doesn’t float up to any other nano Fish such as the Bloodfin Tetra, for that reason that they do not need as much space for swimmingpool.

If you are only keeping a college of 6 or longer Peacock Gudgeon, a 15-gallon tank should suffice. increase the tank dimensions to get a bigger school or even a community tank which has species.

Concerning habitat, they favor a much more lush and decorated Aquarium, because it harkens back into their normal habitat in the ponds and streams of Oceania. You’ll discover that your Peacock Gudgeon flourishing in plant-heavy surroundings.

Anubias, Java fern, along with water wisteria are extraordinary options To get Peacock Gudgeons. It is essential to supply them with an range of vegetation that they have places to hide whenever they are feeling stressed or compromised, and they like swimming through crops from the tank.

You will see content when they’re surrounded by crops. You will many likely even notice their colours become much more lively when they are surrounded by plants.

Choose hearty plants to the Peacock Gudgeon tankthey spend as much time interacting with all the plants which much more delicate types won’t survive long.

To get a parasite, select darker sand which reminds them of. Their normal habitat. attempt to avoid dirt as it might scratch their underside sides and then injure them.

As we said, they choose to hide from the crops whenever they feel endangered, and incorporating decorations into your aquarium such as castles or caves can supply much more hiding places such as Peacock Gudgeons.

And as you’ll see later, you are going to want a cave in case you are intending to breed themif they choose to breed.

Rocks and driftwood are additional tank enhancements which will help maintain the Peacock Gudgeons content.

Water Requirements

In their natural habitat, Peacock Gudgeons swim in Slow-moving flows or possibly ponds, and that implies you’ve got to be cautious that your house tank leak isn’t overly powerful or quick, or else they’ll get frustrated and overwhelmed out.

They are also acclimated to warmer temperatures, so be sure Your own water temperature is from the 72°F into 79°F (22.2 into 26.1°C) range.

The best parameters to guarantee a close fit to their natural habitat include:

    pH degrees: 6.0 to 7.8 (approximately 7.0 is greatest )

    Water hardness: 5 to 12 dKH

    water temperatures: 72°F into 79°F (22.2-26.1°C)

You want to Be certain to keep nitrate levels decreased on your Tank, for that reason select a filtration system which may do the task, remember that the filter that you require will differ based on how numerous in total have been on your area.

In case you’ve got a college of 6 at a 15-gallon tank, then your filter needs will probably be different than if you are hosting various species at an 60-gallon tank.

And these animals are used to slower moving Water, and that implies you don’t wish to decide on a filter that is likely to make a stronger current than they could deal with.

If the present seems too powerful for the Peacock Gudgeons, You’re able to decrease the flow by putting the filter from the glass of the tank or even placing a plant or ribbon before the leak.

What size Candles Why Do They Want?

Even a 15-gallon tank is the minimal recommendation for your Peacock Gudgeon. The dimension goes up from there based on how a number of different species that you have on your tank. we all know of amateurs who home their ownPeacock Gudgeons at a 90-gallon neighborhood tank.

Just how numerous Can Be Held Per Gallon?

A tiny set of Peacock Gudgeons ought to flourish in a 15-gallon tank, but naturally, in case you’ve got a bigger tank, then that is better.

Tank Mates

Peacock Gudgeon is quite amazing and certainly will do just fine with other serene fish which are about precisely the exact same dimensions as they are.

You need to be mindful of placing them with much much more competitive fish and fish which are bigger than they’re — it equally pressures them endangers them. larger fish are much more very likely to swallow the Peacock Gudgeons entire.

If you are like any fish Which Are much more territorial, then make sure you’ve got an aquarium that’s big enough to your other fish to carve out their own area so the Peacock Gudgeons don’t feel endangered.

Proper Tankmates

    Apistogramma

    Bumblebee Goby

    Celestial Pearl Danios

    Cherry Barb

    Cory Catfish

    Ember Tetra (along with alternative Tetras)

    Harlequin Rasbora

    Kuhli Loach

Maintaining Peacock Gudgeons Collectively

Peacock Gudgeons are happiest when you maintain them at a set of 6 to 2 fish. You will find it’s possible to maintain just one set, but you wish to be certain that they’re not alone in the tank. but surely, a college of 6 will maintain them articles and unstressed.

Diet

Peacock Gudgeons aren’t big fans of food that is sweet. A number of amateurs report which their Peacock Gudgeons turn up their noses when presented with scents. Peacock Gudgeons reside to their title — happy as a peacock they need a much more interesting diet.

Even though the Peacock Gudgeons into Your house tank were probably Bred in captivity they assert a affinity for the meals which their species locates from the wild: foods that’s loaded with protein they can prey , like mammals, insects, and other tiny creatures.

Give them freeze-dried high protein meals, and blend In certain live snacks such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They might well partake of these beers if you offer them their treasured meaty meals to cooperate with it.

Bear in Mind that the fat and protein content in the live food offers the nourishment they have to keep healthy and joyful; you will observe a difference within their own coloration once you nourish them too.

If you observe that their colours aren’t as fantastic as you would like, you might have to bring some meat to the omnivore’s dietplan.

Peacock Gudgeon Care

In comparison to other Fish species, even Peacock Gudgeon maintenance is relatively simple. They are not especially fussy and carry out well in community settings.

But that Does not indicate you could stick them at practically any tank and then call it a day. These fish require thoroughly crafted surroundings and protected water requirements to remain healthier. below are a few essential care ideas to follow.

Tank Size

Due for their small dimensions, Peacock Gudgeons do not require a bunch of space (they are fantastic freshwater bass ). To make matters much simpler, these fish are not the greatest swimmers.

Because of this, you do not need to have an excessive amount of swimming area on your tank to keep them healthy.

The minimum tank size we urge is 15 g. That is acceptable for a small set of Peacock Gudgeons. Obviously, when you anticipate having a substantial group or multi-species community tank, even bigger is always preferable.

Caring of Peacock Gudgeon

Like many aquarium fish, Peacock Gudgeon is susceptible to some variety of ailments. maintaining your aquarium clean using frequent water changes and monitoring the water quality, in addition to subsequent to the above discussed feeding assistance is going to do much to guard your own Peacock Gudgeons from falling sick.

Ich, named to its parasite which causes itto be Ichthyophthirius Multifiliis, strikes when freshwater fish encounter stress. supplying a stress-free atmosphere for the Peacock Gudgeon is overriding in preventative care.

Anx

5 Socialization mistakes That could Screw Up Your pet dog

The following are some pet dog socialization mistakes to avoid.

My lab mix Ace was a laid-back, well-socialized guy. I didn’t train him to be that way. It’s just how he was. I took him lots of places after I adopted him, but he was already a year old by then and normally calm. 

Because Ace was born on a farm, he must’ve been around plenty of animals, noises and different people. Genetics were also a factor, of course.

Regardless, he wasn’t fazed by anything, which was really convenient.

I believe in ongoing socialization for all dogs – taking them out as much as possible to areas where they can be successful.

That’s different for every dog, obviously.

Visiting a pet dog friendly café was no big deal to Ace. It would’ve been a bit much for my previous dog. just walking around the neighborhood is challenging enough for others.

You want to challenge your pet dog a little, but not too much.

This post may consist of affiliate links. That Mutt may earn money from the companies pointed out in this post.

5 puppy and pet dog socialization mistakes to avoid

1. Forcing the pet dog into stressful or scary situations is not ‘socializing’ him

Socialization must be about introducing the pet dog to something new in a positive way.

We hear about the value of bringing our dogs to new areas, so we think of “big picture” events like pet dog parks.

Really, we must be focusing on less-exciting examples.

New pet dog owners are told to socialize their dogs around other dogs, so they might think it’s a good idea to check out the pet dog park.

Obviously you wouldn’t want to take a pet dog with no dog-park experience and throw him into a fenced area with 25 other dogs on a lively Saturday afternoon. This would set a lot of dogs up for failure, right? The pet dog may be overwhelmed at best. a lot more than likely, he could act out aggressively.

See my post: policies at the pet dog park.

But, a walk with one other pet dog followed by a little off-leash play? This is a best way for lots of dogs to socialize until they get a lot more comfortable.

Another example: Bringing a puppy to a busy, noisy event like enjoying a marathon could be too scary. but a walk where you know you’ll be exposed to a small crowd – like walking by a kid’s soccer game – might be perfect. It’s less chaotic, and you can always step away calmly.

I recommend you wear a pet dog treat bag around your waist when out and about with your dog. That way you can always have quick access to high-valued treats to reward your pet dog for checking out something new. This keeps new experiences fun and positive for your dog.

*Enjoying this article? get sensible pet dog training ideas emailed once a week. Click Here

2. pet dog socialization mistake: Not investing in training

One of my favorite writers, Jon Katz, wrote that pet dog owners will typically spend hundreds of dollars getting an exotic purebred or designer dog, but then they won’t spend a dollar on training that dog.

People will also pay $400 to adopt a “rescue dog,” but are a lot of of them ready to spend money on training? probably not.

I’m not saying you have to invest a bunch of money into pet dog training, but you do need to invest your time. My favorite way to train my pet dog is to do it myself. I normally train my pet dog on walks around the neighborhood.

Still, I do find group obedience classes valuable, even to those who “know everything” about training a dog. classes are an easy way to work with your pet dog around other dogs. There are few scenarios in the “real world” that allow you to do this in a controlled way.

I know training classes can get expensive, but if you can swing even one six-week session of weekly classes per year, it is well worth it. They’re not for all dogs, of course. Hiring a private trainer for one-on-one instruction can also be very helpful.

My pet dog walking buddies, Ruby and Mack

3. Not having an exit plan when trying to socialize your dog

Some situations are just too stressful for certain dogs, and it’s up to the owner to always have a plan for what to do if it’s not going well. This is true no matter how well socialized the pet dog is.

Often, we humans set unrealistic goals and expectations for our dogs. maybe someone makes a decision to take his pet dog to a street fair, for example, because he’s seen other people walking their calm, easygoing dogs through the fair in the past.

This is fine, but if it’s not going well and the pet dog is lunging and barking at people or so afraid that his tail is tucked between his legs, you need to be ready to walk away or get in the automobile and go home.

As a less extreme example, I always had the goal of taking Ace to coffee shops on a regular, flat collar (vs. a training collar). often this went OK, but normally it was an unrealistic expectation and he pulled too much.

As a backup, I always brought his gentle Leader along in my bag so I had it just in case. another good option is a martingale collar.

See my post: easy socialization ideas for dogs and puppies

*Enjoying this article? get sensible pet dog training ideas emailed once a week. Click Here

4. ‘Correcting’ a fearful dog

One of the most common pet dog socialization mistakes is correcting a fearful dog.

It’s only natural for pet dog owners to want to tell a pet dog “no” or to jerk on the leash when the pet dog is barking or growling out of fear.

I’ve done this plenty of times. It’s nearly like it’s a way to acknowledge the other person. Like, a way to signal, “I’m sorry about my dog. I disapprove of the behavior. See?” At least that is the case for me.

Some will alert that correcting a fearful pet dog will make the pet dog a lot more fearful because he will associate the “pain” with the other dog. What I find is that it simply adds unnecessary tension, which might add a lot more fuel to your dog’s “outbursts.”

Either way, correcting him is unlikely to help him get over his fears.

When I’m working with fearful, reactive dogs, I like to define the point at which the pet dog tends to react. maybe he has no reaction when another pet dog is 40 feet away but starts to breathe heavily and stare when the pet dog is 30 feet away and then really starts to lose it within 20 feet. (There are other variables, besides distance, of course.)

With this example, I would start working with the pet dog on calming commands (sit, “watch me”) using highly valued treats from a distance of about 30 feet from other dogs whenever possible. The goal would be to gradually change his action to other dogs over time.

A professional trainer would be able to help you discuss a certain training plan for your pet dog if you need it.

A terrific book to help with this is “Feisty Fido” by Dr. Patricia McConnell.

See my post: Can you “reward” a dog’s fear?

5. forgetting the little things, like walking in new areas

One of the easiest ways to socialize a pet dog is to simply take him for a walk every day. I know we come up with all sorts of excuses not to walk our dogs, but it really is such a basic and useful way to supply daily socialization.

You can even have your pet dog on a long 15- or 30-foot leash to give him a lot more freedom to sniff explore new things at his own pace.

Dogs are exposed to so lots of new people, dogs, sights, sounds and smells on a walk. So if you want to expose your pet dog to something new, simply walk him down a different street than he’s used to or even walk him at a different time of day.

I know you all work very hard to socialize your own dogs.

*Enjoying this article? get sensible pet dog training ideas emailed once a week. Click Here

What are some other pet dog socialization mistakes you can think of?

Let me know in the comments!

Related articles:

Don’t judge people who have reactive dogs
Stop your pet dog from barking/lunging on walks
See all my training ideas here

Lindsay Stordahl is the founder of That Mutt. She writes about pet dog training, pet dog exercise and feeding a healthy raw diet.

Uncategorized

Dominant cat

I am nowhere near an expert on cats. I have no idea how to train them. I don’t think anybody does. but I love cats, and my two challenge me in ways my mutt Ace doesn’t. Cats are just so darn smart. Although I don’t believe all cats are smarter than all dogs, my two are certainly smarter than Ace.

One thing Scout and Beamer have taught me is patience. They will scratch my couch. They will walk on my counters. They will climb on everything. They will leave cat hair on my bed and clothes. I can train or at least manipulate dogs to do whatever I want. With cats, it’s another story.

More importantly, my cats have taught me that you don’t have to be the loudest, strongest or heaviest to be the one in control. They show that whenever I bring a new canine into our townhome. The cats will always dominate the dogs practically immediately.

Dogs and cats can get along

Cats and dogs are very different, which is why canine training techniques never work on cats. but all animals show dominance by claiming their space. even people do this by taking over a favorite table at a coffee shop or bar.

My cat Beamer (right) is the most laid back, confident cat I know. I learn so much about a canine by its reaction to Beamer and Beamer’s reaction to the dog.

Most dogs will right away submit to Beamer as he casually claims his space on the couch or floor. He doesn’t make direct eye contact because that would be a threat. Instead, he just moves in and takes over.

Beamer understands in ways I can’t which dogs are bluffing and which dogs are really a risk to him and Scout. If Beamer is whatsoever stressed or agitated by a dog, I know best away that the canine can’t be trusted around cats and needs some major exercise and structure.

Nine times out of 10, however, the growling or barking canine is just bluffing and Beamer literally steps in and the canine retreats. other times, when the canine is extra insecure, Beamer will show no reaction to the canine at all. He will actually yawn or turn his back as if to say, “This canine is not worth my time.” This is many common with smaller dogs, young dogs and older dogs.

The way this 15-pound cat can silently walk into a room and calmly uses his energy to make 60-pound dogs submit to him amazes me. These dogs could take one lunge at Beamer and it would all be over. Instead, Beamer is the one in control. He proves to me monthly that dogs and cats can get along.

Beamer’s control is similar to myself when I’m out walking two or three dogs at once. The dogs’ combined weight is greater than my own and they are probably stronger. but the dogs respect that I am the one in control. If not, I’d be in big trouble.

Dominant dogs

A dominant animal will take possession of space, objects, food and other animals.

When I have a foster canine living with us, in some cases the canine will become possessive over me. I will be working at my computer and I’ll look down and see the canine lying at my feet, silently guarding me from Ace. because my canine is submissive, he will be lying 10 feet away with his back to us.

Possessiveness over a human is harmful because the canine can become protective and aggressive to dogs, cats or people.

When I’m working with much more dominant dogs, I have to be aware of my actions whatsoever times. I might step over the canine instead of around it, showing that I own whatever space I want. I walk through doorways first and step into any canine that is leaning or jumping on me. backing away would only give that canine much more power. before feeding a dog, I set the bowl down and pause a few moments asking for a few feet of space before the canine can method the food.

All of theses subtle actions are very clear messages to a canine about who’s in charge. It has to be made with confidence and consistency or the canine will not take me seriously.

Cat in control

My gray tabby cat Scout loves to sleep in my boyfriend’s lap. He loves to cuddle with Josh, follow Josh around and view Josh. I’m not sure what it is, but Scout has always liked Josh better than me. Scout and I actually have a silent competition for Josh’s attention.

One thing Scout will do is take over the space around Josh. This nine-pound cat will come up between Josh and I and put his little body in between us. then he will turn his back to me and focus intently on Josh. He will even drool a little. Not only that, but he will slowly inch himself back into me as though to push me away. He also looks for ways to elevate his body higher than mine, really putting himself above me.

Sometimes, just to mess with my cat, I will slowly get closer and closer to Josh or try to squeeze myself in between him and Scout. It takes a few minutes before Scout jumps off the couch and walks away. It gives me a little bit of pride whenever I defeat this silentwarrior.

When this happens, Scout turns his back to me and intensely starts bathing himself.

“It wasn’t all that important. I have better things to do.”

Cats really do have a lot much more dignity than dogs.

Scout will turn 4 next week. pleased birthday, buddy!

Here are some photos from Scout’s birthday photo caption contest last year.