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Author: Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith, discussions manager for Petful, has been researching and writing about pet behaviors for several years. Her work has been recognized with Certificates of Excellence from both the Dog Writers Association of America and the Cat Writers’ Association. A longtime animal lover, Melissa is a professional pet sitter on Cape Cod through her company, Fresh Start Services.
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A Full List of Pet Holidays Throughout the Year

By Melissa SmithJan 1, 2021February 1, 2021

You can celebrate your pets — and those who work with pets — from January to December. This list of pet holidays is fully updated for 2021.

Open post Photo of a growling black-and-white dog

Do Dogs Smell Fear? Yes. (And Here’s How, According to Science.)

By Melissa SmithAug 31, 2020August 31, 2020

When you are afraid — or even when you are happy — your body produces certain chemical signals that a dog can detect.

Open post Life after quarantine

How to Prepare Your Pet for Life After Quarantine

By Melissa SmithMay 26, 2020May 25, 2020

Going back to work soon after weeks of working from home? Here’s how to help your dog or cat cope with these big changes.

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For Pet Care Professionals, COVID-19 Has Been Devastating for Business

By Melissa SmithApr 27, 2020April 27, 2020

“I’ve been trying to stay positive and stay healthy, which is the best we can all do,” says one pet sitter.

Open post What Happens to My Pet If I Catch COVID-19?

What Happens to My Pet If I Catch COVID-19?

By Melissa SmithMar 30, 2020April 24, 2020

It’s crucial to plan ahead so your pet isn’t left uncared for if you get sickened by the COVID-19 coronavirus. Here’s how to prepare now — just in case.

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Coping With a Pet’s Death: A Pet Sitter’s Perspective

By Melissa SmithMar 11, 2020April 20, 2020

When it’s your pet’s time to go, your pet sitter is grieving right along with you. Let us help you. It’s our function and our calling.

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Is My Cat Lonely? Sure, It’s Possible, and Here’s Why.

By Melissa SmithJan 8, 2020August 26, 2020

If your cat seems lonely, here is how to create an environment that allows your cat to do what cats want to do: stalk, pounce, hunt, climb and scratch.

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My Dog’s Experience With Myasthenia Gravis and Megaesophagus

By Melissa SmithJan 7, 2020May 30, 2020

People ask me why I devoted so much of my life to caring for my ailing German Shepherd. All I can say is that I got so much more in return than what I gave.

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Does Your Cat Really Hate You? (You Should Read This.)

By Melissa SmithJan 1, 2020August 26, 2020

Chances are, your cat doesn’t really “hate” you — they’re just trying to tell you something super important. Here’s what you need to know.

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4 Reasons Your Dog May Be Carrying Their Food Away

By Melissa SmithSep 4, 2019April 20, 2020

If you’re constantly stepping on kibble after mealtime, this may be why.

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10 Biggest Dog Breeds in the World

By Melissa SmithJul 31, 2019May 6, 2020

Mastiffs, Saint Bernards and Great Pyrenees lead the way as the biggest dog breeds in the world. Check out the full list here.

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How to Calm Down an Energetic Dog: Quick Tips for Any Breed

By Melissa SmithJul 15, 2019April 20, 2020

Does your dog have way too much energy? Here are some things you can do right now to calm down your energetic dog.

Open post How much to tip dog walkers and cat sitters?

How Much to Tip Dog Walkers, Pet Sitters, Groomers, Trainers, Vet Staff

By Melissa SmithJun 11, 2019April 3, 2022

I’m a pet sitter and dog walker, and I also interviewed several experts to get their thoughts on tipping for pet care. Here’s what I’ve learned.

Open post How Much Should I Pay My Pet Sitter?

How Much Should I Pay My Pet Sitter?

By Melissa SmithJun 5, 2019April 20, 2020

Wondering how much you’ll need to pay for a pet sitter? Expect to pay $20–$40 per day or more, although rates can vary depending on many factors.

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Emergency Pet Fund: Why You Should Save for Unexpected Expenses

By Melissa SmithMay 29, 2019April 20, 2020

Opening a savings account with Varo will help ensure that when your pet needs you, you can be there for them 100%. #sponsored

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