Are you a proud dog parent in Plymouth, MA, looking for the perfect solution to ensure your furry friend gets the exercise, attention, and love they deserve while you’re at work or away? Look no further! Just Around the Corner is here to unleash the full potential of your pet’s happiness and well-being.
Why choose Just Around the Corner as your professional dog walker? Let’s embark on a tail-wagging journey to discover the multitude of benefits that await you and your four-legged companion:
Trust and Reliability: Our bonded and insured team at Just Around the Corner is made up of passionate and certified dog lovers who are committed to providing your pup with the utmost care. You can trust us to always be there on time and ready to take your furry friend on exciting adventures.
Tailored Services: We understand that every dog is unique, with specific needs and preferences. That’s why we offer personalized dog walking services tailored to your pet’s age, breed, and activity level. Whether your pup is a high-energy hound or a leisure-loving lapdog, we’ve got them covered.
Exercise and Health Benefits: Regular exercise is essential for a happy and healthy dog. Our professional dog walkers ensure your pet gets the physical activity they need to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and build muscle strength. Plus, it helps curb those undesirable behaviors that often result from pent-up energy.
Mental Stimulation: Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation to stay sharp and engaged. Our walks are more than just a stroll; they’re an opportunity for your pup to explore new scents, sights, and sounds, stimulating their curiosity and enhancing their overall well-being.
Reliable and Consistent: Your peace of mind is our priority. We adhere to a strict schedule, ensuring your dog receives their daily exercise and companionship reliably. Consistency in routine is essential for a happy and well-behaved pup, and that’s exactly what we provide.
Safety First: We prioritize the safety and security of your dog above all else. Our team is trained to handle various situations and can quickly respond to any unexpected incidents that may arise during a walk. Plus, we ensure all pets are secured with appropriate leashes and harnesses.
Stress Free Pet Parenting: Life can get busy, and juggling work, social commitments, and family responsibilities can be challenging. By choosing Just Around the Corner, you can say goodbye to the guilt of leaving your furry friend at home all day. We’re here to fill the gap, providing your dog with the attention and exercise they need.
Love and Care: We don’t just walk dogs; we build bonds. At Just Around the Corner, we treat your dog as if they were our own. Our walkers shower your pet with love, attention, and affection, making each walk an enjoyable experience.
Peace of Mind: When you hire Just Around the Corner, you can enjoy your day knowing your beloved pet is in capable hands. We provide real-time updates and even send you pictures of your pup’s adventures, so you’re always connected and assured of their happiness.
Community Connection: We’re not just a business; we’re a part of the Plymouth, MA community since 2008. We take pride in getting to know our clients and their pets, fostering a sense of belonging and trust within our tight-knit dog-loving community.
Support Local Business: By choosing Just Around the Corner, you’re not just investing in your pet’s well-being; you’re also supporting a local, family-owned business that’s deeply rooted in the Plymouth, MA community.
In conclusion, Just Around the Corner is Plymouth’s premier dog walking service, committed to ensuring your dog’s happiness, health, and overall quality of life. With our personalized care, reliability, and dedication to your pet’s well-being, you can rest assured that your furry friend is in the best hands possible.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to give your dog the walks they’ve been dreaming of! Join our growing community of happy dogs and satisfied pet parents. Contact Just Around the Corner today, and let’s take the first step towards a happier, healthier, and more active life for your beloved canine companion.
Being a responsible dog owner goes beyond providing food, shelter, and regular vet visits. It involves understanding and meeting your furry friend’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. In this blog, we will explore five unconventional ways to be a responsible dog owner that will enhance your bond with your canine companion and contribute to their overall well-being.
Embrace Eco-Friendly Dog Care
Responsible dog ownership extends to the environment. We are all products of our environment after all, right? Consider using eco-friendly dog products such as biodegradable poop bags, natural grooming products, and sustainable dog toys. Opt for organic or homemade dog treats, reducing the carbon pawprint while keeping your pup healthy. Additionally, choose eco-friendly dog beds made from recycled materials or sustainable fibers. Check out Kupcakes and Kibble in downtown Plymouth, MA for locally made treats, foods, and eco friendly toys.
Goldie the German Shepherd of Goldstead K9 Training in Plymouth MA
Practice Mindful Training
Training your dog is not just about obedience; it’s about building a strong bond and ensuring their safety. Embrace mindful training techniques that focus on positive reinforcement and understanding your dog’s individual needs. This approach encourages trust, reduces stress, and fosters a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. Need a trainer recommendation? Check out local Plymouth, MA trainer Jess Keen of Goldstead K9 Training.
Dogs enjoying their daycare days at Barker House in Plympton MA
Engage in Mental Stimulation
Dogs need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Beyond physical exercise, engage your dog’s mind through interactive toys, puzzle games, and scent work. Teach them new tricks or enroll in dog-friendly classes like agility or nose work. Mental stimulation not only keeps your dog entertained but also enhances their cognitive abilities and overall happiness.
Just Around the Corner mascots Quinn and Harbour taking a ride in the Newfie Mobile in Plymouth MA
Promote Canine Socialization
Socialization is crucial for a well-rounded dog. Beyond dog parks and playdates, consider unconventional ways to expose your pup to different environments, people, and animals. Take them on car rides, visit pet-friendly stores, or organize dog-friendly outings with friends.Bring them with you to Morrisons when shopping for your next outdoor project or make the drive down to Plymouth Beach or Manomet Point to take in the views. Snag an ice cream with your pup at Kushkone (hurry before they close for the season) or enjoy lunch on the lawn of Bramhalls. This exposure helps your dog become comfortable and confident in various situations, reducing anxiety and potential behavioral issues.
America’s Hometown Hound 2023, Tim Nash, showing support at the Friends of the Plymouth Pound annual fundraising event.
Give Back to the Canine Community
Being a responsible dog owner means giving back to the larger canine community. Volunteer at local animal shelters or rescue organizations, participate in charity walks or fundraisers, or consider fostering a dog in need.There are always local places looking for donations and volunteers like Friends of the Plymouth Pound and Helping Hands for Plymouth Animal Shelter. By helping other dogs, you not only make a positive impact but also set an example for responsible dog ownership within your community.
Being a responsible dog owner goes beyond the basics. By embracing eco-friendly practices, practicing mindful training, providing mental stimulation, promoting socialization, and giving back to the canine community, you can enhance your bond with your furry friend while contributing to their overall well-being. These unconventional approaches will not only make you a responsible dog owner but also a compassionate advocate for all dogs. Remember, responsible dog ownership is a lifelong commitment that brings immeasurable joy and fulfillment to both you and your four-legged companion.
The pet sitters and dog walkers of Just Around the Corner are hard-working sitters that strive to provide the best care to you and your pet. We aim to ensure you have peace of mind when leaving your pet with us. Our pet sitters are dedicated and insured pet professionals that take their job very seriously. For Professional Pet Sitters Week, we would like to share five ways to show your pet sitter some appreciation for all the hard work they do. We love taking care of your pet and love to see our care appreciated! Here are some ways you can show us your support.
Leave a Tip
Our pet sitters aim to provide the best service to all our clients. Leaving a tip for your pet sitter is the most direct way to thank your sitter. Only a portion of the pet sitting service price goes to the pet sitter, so a bonus is sure to make them feel appreciated. If you feel like your pet sitter did a fantastic job and went above and beyond, be sure to show your appreciation with a little extra tip for all their hard work. Tips can be left in cash, or charged through your Pet Portal profile.
Loyal Pet Sitters say Thank You!
Leave a Review and Like Our Page
Leaving an excellent online review for our business can go a long way. Great reviews attract new clients, and existing clients stay loyal to our services. Positive reviews improve our reputation online and in reality. Liking our social media pages also enhances our reputation and helps us stand out. In fact, don’t just like our page — follow us! You may get to see some great pets – maybe even your own. Don’t forget to take a couple of minutes to leave us a review or comment on our services. Feel free to mention by name the pet sitters who provided care for your pet.
Referrals
Referrals go a long way since they are personal reviews given out to friends, family, and people you know. People are more likely to go with a service that you vouch for and recommend. If you feel like your pet sitter does a fantastic job, please tell everyone you know. This word-of-mouth message grows the business and truly shows your pet sitter the appreciation you have for them.
Pet Sitters love caring for your pets!
Leave Clear Instructions (and Snacks Help too!)
Pet sitting can be a complicated job with various schedules to follow every day. Everyone has a different routine for their pet, and it is the pet sitter’s job to complete that routine. Any pet sitter will agree that keeping pet care information updated in your pet profile allows your pet to follow their routine a lot more smoothly than unclear and broad instructions. Pet sitters want to do a good job, so leaving them with a detailed list of tasks and responsibilities helps them get the job done right. Leaving snacks is also a nice little gesture to show your pet sitter some appreciation.
Love your Pet Sitter? Refer them!
Stay in Contact and Keep Us Updated
Pet Sitters love to send you updates on how your pet is doing while caring for your pet. They understand that you are busy while you’re away, so you may not have time to always be in touch. But please respond to your pet sitter from time to time. They like to know that you are receiving their messages and that all is well. Pet sitters also appreciate being updated on any changes made to your return or travel so that they can complete all their tasks accurately and before you get home.
After our services are completed, we still love to hear from you. When clients send our pet sitters holiday cards or images of their pets, we truly feel like our services impacted their lives. Sharing your pet photos with us helps pet sitters feel appreciated and loved.
All Out Loyal Pet Sitters Say Thank You!!
The pet-sitting industry is a busy one and keeps us on our toes every day. For Professional Pet Sitter Week, we thought we would share five ways to appreciate your pet sitters next time they come to pet sit at your home. Our pet sitters are hard-working and qualified individuals that only want to provide the best service and company to you and your pets. We are very proud of our JAC pet sitter team and would like to thank them all for their hard work and dedication to serving our clients.
We know getting our pups out in the fresh air and physically engaged is essential. What better way to get out in the fresh air than to visit the dog-friendly trails in Plymouth, MA. Plymouth is packed full of fabulous trails just waiting for you and your pup to explore! Whether you have an elderly dog who just needs a short stroll or a 2-year-old yellow lab ready to run miles and miles, there is a trail just for them. Here are 5 dog-friendly trails in Plymouth, MA that you should explore!
Ellisville Harbor State Park
Trail Length: 0.9 miles
Route Type: Out & Back
Parking: Large Dirt lot in from of Ellisville Harbor State Park
The Ellisville Harbor trail is one of the most dog-friendly trails around. The path is straightforward and the out-and-back design with well-worn paths make it an easy route to follow. Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy the water and marsh views while taking a refreshing break at the lookout with your pup!
There is also a sandy bottom path leading to the ocean at the turn around point so you can enjoy the grandeur of mother nature in serenity. However, it is important to note, the beach itself is not dog-friendly from April 1st-Sept 15th each year. Be sure to plan accordingly and take in the sights and scents from a distance.
This nearly one-mile trail is a perfect choice for anyone looking to try out hiking with their pup for the first time or anyone who needs to keep their hike short and straightforward. Please note: a couple of our dog walkers report finding ticks on pets taken on this trail, so be sure you and your pup are protected and do a thorough check for these pests post-walk.
Hedges Pond Loop (at Hedges Pond Recreational Area and Preserve)
Trail Length: 1.6 miles
Trail Type: Loop
Parking: Public Parking in the entrance lot (paid parking during summer season)
Hedges Pond loop is a gorgeous dog-friendly trail in Plymouth, MA, that allows dogs to run about off-leash. The pond itself is known to be one of the cleanest and most swimmable in all of Plymouth! This trail is not paved but is kept in excellent condition. The debris and roots are cleared regularly, and the terrain is not too steep, making it very user-friendly. If you are making it a family outing, there is also a playground area for the kids and picnic tables to enjoy!
The summer months do require a Beach Sticker or payment on-site to enter the premises. So if you want to avoid paying to use the trail, the off-season is an equally delightful experience. As locals, experiencing Fall in this area is beautiful, but this spot is a must-see no matter which season you decide to enjoy it!
Plymouth Town Forest Trail
Trail Length: 3 miles
Route Type: Loop
Parking: Small dirt lot at Drew Rd. and Long Pond
Address: 127 Long Pond Road (area of) Plymouth, MA
If you are looking to get your steps in for the day or trying to exhaust an energetic dog, then this is the trail for you. On this 3-mile loop, you and your dog may just have the whole place to yourselves. Enjoy a well-maintained path with clearly marked signs making it easy to navigate. There are a few ponds along the trail that offer beautiful views. The Great South Pond for example, is a perfect place to stop for a picnic or a quick break in your walk.
This is a great trail choice for dogs that need minimal foot traffic or who do not engage well with others when out on leash. This trail is also open year-round so that you can bring your dog hiking, bird watching, and even horseback riding throughout the year!
Cape Cod Canal
Trail Length: 7 miles (one way); 14 miles (down and back)
Route Type: Out & Back
Parking: Multiple lots running along the length of the Canal.
Although not technically in Plymouth, the Cape Cod Canal is the most trafficked trail in the Plymouth Area. The flat asphalt path is excellent for both people and dogs who don’t enjoy exploring rough terrain or being out in the woods. Dogs must be kept on a leash but be prepared for some socialization with your pup. The Canal is a popular place for bringing four-legged friends, so there is no shortage of other dogs to say hello to!
If you have a small or elderly dog who doesn’t need a ton of exercise, the trail is perfect for strollers and wagons. So load up your pup in their chariot and get out there to explore the most scenic route around! You’ll enjoy waterfront views that run the entire length of the trail, making this spot a sight to see no matter how far you go!
The Plymouth Harbor Trail is another fabulously flat and mostly paved path for anyone looking to stay close to sea level. While a popular spot, it is not as busy as the Cape Cod Canal. So, if you are looking for a little more peace but need an easy-to-use pathway, this is an excellent choice. Portions of this trail also come with impeccable shoreline views. The Plymouth Harbor Trail is very dog-friendly but does require dogs on leash. This trail has easy access from Nelson Memorial Park and is complete with free parking, making multiple trips here easy and affordable.
There are many beautiful places and trails to visit in and around the area. These were just a select few that made this list. Here were our 5 dog-friendly Trails in Plymouth, MA. Comment below with some of your favorite trails in the area!
If you don’t have time to take your dog out for trails or walks, Just Around the Corner offers daily Dog Walking, Dog Hiking, and Pet Sitting in Plymouth, MA.
Let us help you get some things off your plate! To learn more about how Just Around the Corner can help, check out our Services Page and Contact Us for more information.
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Given the amount of time we have been spending with our fur babies during the “Stay At Home” order, we can expect our pets to experience some form of separation anxiety. Easing your pet into their pre-pandemic routines may be a challenge as we return to work and the outside world. We have come up with five ways on how to ease your pet’s separation anxiety. These steps will allow for a smoother transition into a routine for the changes to come.
What is separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety occurs most commonly when an animal is hyper-attached to their human. They feel abandoned when they are separated from someone they spent so much time with. This can manifest in different ways for different pets. Some pets become more vocal or destructive, and others become quieter. Some signs of separation anxiety include:
Vocalization: howling/whining/barking or excessive barking
Destructive chewing furniture/ personal belongings (destructive behavior)
Inappropriate urination (peeing outside the litter box or on the owner’s clothes)
Scratching at the door/destructive behaviors
Shaking/Shivering
Refusing to eat
Become quiet or withdrawn
Generally, these behaviors start once you begin your routine to leave home, or after you have left. Picking up your keys or putting on your coat will be a sign your pet will associate with departure. These sound like some daunting characteristics, but rest assured, separation anxiety can be aided and even eliminated from the pet given the proper care and training in most cases.
Here are five ways on how to ease your pet’s separation anxiety.
Practice your ‘exit routine’ without the exit
How many times have you gone to put your shoes on to leave the house, and one of them has magically disappeared? That is because our pets KNOW what it means when we put our shoes on. Try doing the final few steps of your exit routine without actually exiting. Put on your shoes, grab your keys, wallet/handbag, and then stay home. Instead of leaving, give your pet extra loving, maybe a treat, belly rubs and reassurance. When you do this, your pet will start to disassociate those “exit actions” with you leaving the house. Do this several times a day as you lead up to the actual exit date. If you have already begun working outside of the home, you can still practice this technique during periods of being home, such as evenings, weekends, etc.
Good Old Entertainment
We would be a little anxious listening to ourselves breathe all day while missing our favorite person. Our pets can also get anxious and distressed from the silence. Give your fur baby some light entertainment while you are away. Whether it’s the radio, music, the TV, or even an audiobook, leaving something on with a human voice will make them feel like someone is there with them. This is a simple way to comfort your pet and give you some peace of mind knowing there is something to keep them company while you are away.
Help your pet to stay calm even when they miss you
Stay Calm
Humans emit pheromones that our pets can smell. These hormone-like chemicals tell our pets when we feel nervous, fearful, or anxious. Our anticipation of knowing our pets will be anxious when we leave can cause us to emit those chemicals, adding to their separation anxiety and emotional distress. If you can’t help but feel worried about leaving them, pop a mint or piece of gum into your mouth to throw them off your scent.
Pawsitive Association
Pawsitive association works for our sweet kitties and slobbery pups by rewarding their good behaviour through toys or treats. For this behavior modification exercise, try purchasing a new toy that you only bring out when you leave. This will give them something positive to enjoy while knowing you are leaving. If the way to your pet’s heart is through their stomach, then have a special snack on hand. Tuna juice for cats or frozen peanut butter Kongs for pups are great treats. This will keep them busy as you head out the door and leave them with the fondest of memories of you as they snack away!
Exercise and Interaction with Other Humans
Exercise and interaction are a fantastic way to build up your pet’s confidence and ultimately relieve much of their anxiety. Spending a designated time walking your dog or playing with your cat before you leave will also tire them out. Try to plan your day out thoughtfully and include them into your daily routine. This will not only help them get into a daily schedule, but the exercise and play will also be good for their physical and psychological well-being. Remember, a tired pet is a calm pet, which guarantees peace of mind.
If you have been home around the clock over these last several months, chances are both you, and your pet will feel a void when the time comes to part ways. Hiring a midday dog walker or cat sitter is a great way to make sure the transition is smooth for both of you. A dog walker will make sure your pup gets fresh air and great exercise to prepare them for the second half of their day while waiting for mom/dad to arrive home. A cat sitter can come by during the day for some playtime and a treat or two. Having “outsiders” come into the home will help your pet become more adaptable. This ultimately places less hyper-attachment on you, giving you a happier, healthier, less anxious relationship.
If you are concerned with cross-contamination when considering hiring a dog walker, cat sitter, or pet sitter, check out our Covid safety measures to learn all about the safety guidelines Just Around the Corner Pet Sitting and Dog Walking is implementing. We believe in keeping our clients, their fur babies and our employees safe during these unique times. Together we can ease our pet’s separation anxiety while creating a safe and healthy environment for everyone.
Have experience with an anxious pet as a pet owner? Let us know how you helped them overcome and ease Separation Anxiety in the comments below.
Whether your pet loves or hates it, winter is an inevitable part of all our lives. Knowing what is best for your pet is the key to keeping them happy and healthy through the cold and usually dreary months. Fun fact, when our pets feel safe and healthy they will naturally enjoy whatever season they are experiencing. So, let’s dive right in to eight great ways to keep your pet happy and healthy this winter!
1. Know Your Pet
No one knows your pet like you do. Therein lies the joy and responsibility for using your best judgement when it comes to pet activities and outings during the winter months. Only you can discern if Lily the kitty can play out in the screened in porch a few minutes in the afternoons, or if Duke your Chihuahua should be indoors 100% of the time since he never stops shivering, or if Esmerelda the St. Bernard can spend hours enjoying the backyard and never get too cold. Trust the knowledge you have of your pet and keep a watchful eye on them so you can adjust as necessary.
A cat sitting on a windowsill inside to keep warm during winter
2. Paw Check!
Snow and ice and sand OH MY! After every outing be sure to wipe your pet’s paws thoroughly. Make sure you remove any snow/ice clumps and clear out grainy ice melt or sand as it can get embedded in their fur and paw pads making a simple task like walking extremely uncomfortable for them. Not getting anywhere with the typical towel cleaning? Try a Dexas Mudbuster to make life a little easier and ensure your pet’s paws are free of debris every time!
3. Shine Bright
Surprise! It gets dark around 4:00 PM during the winter, so chances are at least one walk a day is in the dark. Always wear reflective gear (both you and your dog) along with a light (preferably flashing) to ensure you are visible to other walkers and vehicles. Why you AND your dog? Heaven forbid your dog gets away from you! Being able to SEE them is of paramount importance to getting them home safe and sound. Shine brightly and stay safe this winter!
4. Leash up!
Did you know that pets have a greater chance of becoming lost during the cold season due to a lack of scents accessible to them? It is true! When heading out for a winter excursion or play date consider keeping your pet leashed up or making sure their play space is enclosed. In addition, always keep a collar with an up-to-date ID tag on them. Unsure about the terrain of a trail or what wildlife you may come across? Better to be safe than sorry, leash up and keep your loving companion safely by your side all winter long.
Cat hiding in car wheel to stay warm during the winter
5. Beware of hiding spots
Outdoor/stray cats and other small animals are always looking for places to stay warm during the winter. Before starting up your car or using a piece of machinery in your shed double check that somebody has not made themselves a cozy little home in there! Likewise, winter can be tough on nature. Pay close attention to where birds, squirrels, and other less “pet like” animals are nestling down on and around your property. Be mindful and do your best not to disrupt or destroy their winter homes.
6. Grooming
The winter is for letting ourselves go a bit, isn’t it? Well, our pets are right there with us for that one. Much like the cracking finger tips we experience from excessive hand washing our pet’s skin dries out much more quickly in the winter. While bathing is important unfortunately it washes away helpful oils that keep their skin moist, thus causing itching, irritability, and even painful cracking. In addition, when it comes time for a trip to the groomer be sure to ask that they leave a little more length than they do in warmer months. Our pet’s fur is a natural and necessary part of keeping them protected during the bitter winter months.
7. Antifreeze
Antifreeze is a deadly liquid that attracts pets due to its sweet taste. YIKES! Always clean up thoroughly after use and keep an eye out for any spills/leaking from your vehicle. Consider trying an alternative antifreeze that uses propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is less tasty, biodegradable, and does not cause kidney damage like ethylene glycol. No matter what product you use always keep out of reach of your pets to ensure their safety.
White dog with large stick enjoying winter snowfall
8. Winter Rule of thumb
Remember, if it’s too cold for you, chances are it is too cold for your pet. There are always exceptions to the rule but even if your dog is the “made for winter” type, such as a Husky or Newfoundland, they all have their cold weather limits. A great way to discern whether your winter loving pet will be safe and comfortable outside is to put on your winter coat and head outside yourself. However long you feel comfortable in the current elements is probably close to the same for your pup. Never assume your furry friend can handle the cold, snowy, or icy weather, test it out to keep them safe.
Winter is unavoidable here in New England so we might as well make the best of it! Understanding your pet and their needs will help you decide what actions to take when it comes to outdoor activities, proper grooming, and knowing their limits. Always cleanup toxic spills, remain visible when out at night, be mindful of the nature around you, and do what is best to always keep your pet safely in your care. These 8 simple tips will have your pet enjoying winter all season long.
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