Woodland Walkies Blog

Due to the Success of our business we are now looking for Walkers and Sitters in the following areas: Penarth, Dinas Powys, Wenvoe, Cardiff North  and Newport. If you need to earn aditional money and have a love of dogs, but need flexibility then this could be an opportunity for you. WE would expect everybody that works for us to pass a full CRB check. Get in touch we are ready to hear from you.

With warm weather upon us, please remember NOT to leave dogs in cars. It is not safe, even with windows open or when parked in the shade. Dogs overheat very quickly which means they may be a serious risk in a short time – 20 minutes could prove fatal.

Summer can be particularly dangerous, when its 22 ( 72 F ) outside, the temperature inside a car reach a horrifying 47 ( 117 F ) within just 60 minutes.

In this situation, a dog can’t cool down by panting and will die of heatstroke. Leaving a window open or a sunshield on the windscreen isn’t the solution, either it simply won’t keep the car cool enough.

Glass walled conservatories and caravans can get equally hot.

Other warm weather tips include a cool shady escape from the sun, providing good supplies of drinking water and carrying water with you for your dog on hot days, discouraging excessive exercise in hot weather.

Please take note of this serious summer warnings thank you …

Love & Licks

Kirstie Ann & Team at Woodland-Walkies

We all love our dogs. They’re apart of our family…They’re our best friends, companions, road partners and walking buddies – but how can  I become a better dog owner.  Here are the ideas that I found that were valuable for me and possibly for you . By the way, these all sounds so easy. But it takes a commitment from you to do these tips. Let’s see how many of these ideas you have in place. I know I needed to improve my owner’s skills.

My job at Woodland Walkies is to become involved with every aspect a dogs needs while their in my care. That’s always been my mission statement and my personal passion.

I see many dogs during a day, a week, a month. I know their personalities right down to how they want to be fed, talked to, and disciplined. I want all my dogs to be happier and healthier and benefit from these tips. And, I wanted their owners to get on the train with me.

1. Spend More time with your dog—Just spending some quiet time before work, after work, or midday, will make a big difference. Dogs love to be talked to and made to feel important.

2. Groom—Most dogs like to be groomed or bushed. This also stimulates the skin and gets rid of dead hair. Regular grooming will also help keep your house cleaner from less shedding hair.

3. Play—Play is good for both you and your dog.

4. Understand your dog–Know his or her favorite type of play and their favorite time of day to play versus rest.

5. Feed a consistent diet—Use a high quality food and supplement with healthy treats only in moderation.

6. Supply Plenty of fresh water at all times. Clean the water bowl once daily and make sure it’s always full to the top.

7. Provide a comfortable place to sleep. Whether inside or out, your dog should have a comfortable place to sleep.

8. Carefully choose toys for safety—Not just any toy will do. You really need to consider safety issues when choosing toys for you dog. For example, are there any parts that can be torn off and swallowed? Is it something he or she might “eat” thus causing a possible intestinal foreign body that could require surgery? Will it please your dog? Choose toys that cannot be chewed or swallowed. If you aren’t sure how your dog will interact with a toy, observe him. For dogs, the Kong is a great choice.

9. Supervise—Always keep a watchful eye on your dog for dangerous or destructive behaviors.

10. Exercise–Daily exercise will keep your dog fit. Additional exercise can help with some behavior problems as well.

11. Don’t let your dog get fat! Adjust food intake for body type, provide healthy treats, and exercise regularly to avoid extra weight gain.

12. Be Observant—Monitor absolutely everything your dog does. For example, did he eat all his food today? Has he been drinking water? Was his urine and bowel movement normal? Is his activity level the same? How does he look? Is his hair coat okay? If you massage him, do you feel any lumps? Have you seen any coughing or vomiting? Early recognition of symptoms can save your dog’s life.

13. Visit your veterinarian regularly. Be sure to maintain an appropriate schedule of wellness and recheck appointments. Your dog’s needs may continue to change depending on their life stage or health conditions.

Licks and Love,

Kirstie Ann

Woodland Walkies Pet Care Services.

Bruce loves being part of my Yoga session…Yoga for you and your dog…

Let’s do some Doggie Yoga…it’s called Doga

Dogs love to stretch it’s a wonderful feeling for both animals and humans – this brillient exercise helps to keep us both healthy and flexible.

Being a qualified dog behavioural therapist for dogs and experienced yoga student I utilize my holistic and calming attitude when looking after people’s pets. The calming effect it has on pets is quiet remarkable, using this wonderful gift encourages pets to feel relaxing during our first inital meeting.

Come and join us on one of our social walks on a Sunday to introduce your pets to some new friends…its a great way to get out and be active.

https://www.woodland-walkies.co.uk/social-walks-keep-fit-together/

Licks and love

Kirstie Ann

Woodland-Walkies

It’s that time again during the year when holidays are on the horizon – but you can’t go away as who’s going to look after your furry family member.

Not to worry Woodland – Walkies based in Penarth is on hand to help you…

To trust a company with your beautfiful pet is something we all want to try out but find it difficult…Trust is the Word…

Weather for the day or over a few weeks we are asked to look after your special family member – you can rest assure that your 4 legged baby will have a great doggie holiday break with us in Penarth…early beach walks and a long afternoon stroll in Cosmeston lakes are on their horizons ;)))

The welfare of all the animlas we look after is number 1 priority, ensuring a first class service of care and love.

Please email us for available dates…

Licks and Love

Kirstie Ann

Woodland – Walkies

Improving the Immediate Environment if your suffering this time of year…

1. Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It’s a good idea to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.
2. Limit fabrics. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics, steam-clean them regularly. Cotton-covered furniture is the smartest choice, and washable blinds or shades make good window treatments.
3. Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Other kinds of bags will permit allergens to blow back out of the vacuum.
4. Install an air purifier , Our modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air that is loaded with allergens, so it’s smart to let in some fresh air daily.
5. Use anti-allergen room sprays. These sprays deactivate allergens, rendering them harmless
6. Dust regularly. Wiping down the walls will also cut down on allergens.
7. Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.
8. Bathe your pet at least once a week. Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won’t dry out his skin. Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal’s fur.
9. Wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves.
10. Note any symptoms of dermatitis exhibited by your companion animal. Dermatitis often leads to accelerated skin and fur shedding, which will up your allergen exposure.
11. Brush or comb your pet frequently. It’s best to do this outdoors, if possible.
12. Wash your hands after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to allergens.
13. Designate a “pet outfit” from among your most easily washed clothes. Wear it when playing or cuddling with your companion, and you’ll leave other clothing uncontaminated.
14. Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms. Medications can often allow you and your companion animal to remain together happily ever after.

Spring has sprung, and with the change of season, our thoughts inevitably turn to Easter celebrations, spring cleaning and much-needed home improvement projects. But the new balmy weather can prove not-so-sunny for curious pets—or their unwitting parents. Before you embark on seasonal chores or outdoor revelry, take inventory of potential springtime hazards for your delicate, furry friend. To help you out have a look below to the potental hazards.

Easter Treats and Decorations Keep Easter lilies and candy bunnies in check—chocolate goodies are toxic to cats and dogs and lilies can be fatal if ingested by our furry friends.

Buckle Up!
While every pet parent knows dogs love to feel the wind on their furry faces, allowing them to ride in the car sticking their heads out of moving-car windows is dangerous. Flying debris and insects can cause inner ear or eye injuries and lung infections, and abrupt stops or turns can cause major injury, or worse! Pets in cars should always be secured in a crate or wearing a seatbelt harness designed especially for them.

Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition in many households, but be sure to keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way! Almost all commercially sold cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to pets. The key to using them safely is to read and follow label directions for proper use and storage.

Home Improvement
Products such as paints, mineral spirits and solvents can be toxic to your pets and cause severe irritation or chemical burns. Carefully read all labels to see if the product is safe to use around your furry friends. Also, be cautious of physical hazards, including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It may be wise to confine your dog or cat to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.

Let Your Garden Grow—With Care
Pet parents, take care—fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides keep our plants and lawns healthy and green, but their ingredients aren’t meant for four-legged consumption and can be fatal if your pet ingests them. Always store these poisonous products in out-of-the-way places and follow label instructions carefully.

Poisonous Plants
Time to let your garden grow! But beware, many popular springtime plants—including Easter lilies, rhododendron and azaleas—are highly toxic to pets and can easily prove fatal if eaten.

Out and About
Warmer weather means more trips to the park, longer walks and more chances for your pet to wander off! Make sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address, contact phone number and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (never choke!) collars, please.

Happy Spring…

Kirstie Ann @ Woodland-Walkies Penarth

Woodland Walkies in Penarth is now taking bookings.

Give us a call if you would like to make an appointment to have a chat.

Doggie heaven walks right on our doorstep…

Only a few miles from Cardiff situated within the beautiful Victoria town of Penarth where Woodland Walkies is based are Cosmeston lakes.

Cosmeston Lakes is one of the finest country parks in South Wales and has recently been designated with local nature reserve status. We are lucky enough to walk straight out our front door into the beauty of Cossy ( as the locals call it )

With a number of beautiful rural walks to choose from within our catchment area we will often vary where we go to provide as stimulating a walk as possible. The choice of route is also dependent on the weather and on hot, dry days we will always seek out the shade and cool of a woodland or river walk.

The fantastic doggie walks with stunning tranquility set in more than 200 acres of unspoilt Countryside centered around a series of lakes , ancient woodland walks and natural beauty is simply the perfect place for dogs to enjoy themselves.

We often change our walks to fun beach activities to boost your dogs wellbeing and make sure your Pet is getting plenty of fresh sea air at Penarth Beach.

With so many excellent local walking routes, Woodland Walkies in Penarth is the perfect location for your dog to explore the beauty of nature and enjoy the outdoors within a safe environment.

During our first initial consultation you will have the opportunity to meet us in person, check our references and insurance details and have a more in depth chat about your Pet.

Areas we cover and pick up your Pet include:

Penarth
Sully
Cogan
Dinas Powys
Landough
Barry
Wenvoe
Pontcanna
Llandaff
We will always contact you after the first walk to let you know how it all went and provide you with regular updates.

Prices

30 minute walk – £8
1 hour walk – £12
2 hour Walk – £18
If you have more than 1 pet in the family you will be charged half the price for any other pets that are walked at the same time.

Please Note

1 dog walker will walk 3 pets only during each walk, we wish to give maximum attention to each pet we look after.

All pets are always kept on their leads, unless other arrangements have been discussed with the owners. We do not walk pets that have to wear a muzzle due to aggressive behaviour towards other dogs.

Tel: 07583 638242

E-mail: mail@woodland-walkies.co.uk 

Woodland Walkies offers an overnight dog sitting service to people with small to medium size pets.

If you decide to visit the beautiful Capital City of Wales Cardiff bring your pet along with you.

Your pet can travel to Cardiff with you but stay over with us in Penarth, we will drop your pet back to you when you head home the following day. If you wish to go away for the weekend and you are from Cardiff just give us a call to make arrangements for us to look after your pet while your away for the night.

Prices.

Puppy and Adult Dogs – £25 per night this includes an hour walk in the beauty and nature of Cosmeston lakes.

Please note

Don’t forget to pack your puppy or dogs favourite blanket and toys for their overnight stay with us.

Woodland Walkies based in Penarth is now taking bookings for Pets in the local area. Have a look at all our caring pet service options we have for you to choose.