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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.
  • Misc.
Open post

A Full List of Pet Holidays Throughout the Year

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post Photo of a growling black-and-white dog

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

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post Life after quarantine

How to Prepare Your Pet for Life After Quarantine

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Misc.
Open post Pet Care Professionals COVID-19

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

Melissa Smith 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.

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

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

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Misc.
Open post

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

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Food and Nutrition
Open post Best dog food delivery service

Best Fresh Pet Food Delivery Services

Melissa Smith By Melissa SmithMar 1, 2020April 20, 2020

Say goodbye to the days of having to drive to the store just to buy food for your dog or cat.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

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

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Pet Health
Open post

My Dog’s Experience With Myasthenia Gravis and Megaesophagus

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

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

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

4 Reasons Your Dog May Be Carrying Their Food Away

Melissa Smith By Melissa SmithSep 4, 2019April 20, 2020

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

  • Dog Breeds
Open post

10 Biggest Dog Breeds in the World

Melissa Smith 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.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

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

Melissa Smith 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.

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

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

Melissa Smith By Melissa SmithJun 11, 2019May 27, 2020

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.

  • Misc.
Open post How Much Should I Pay My Pet Sitter?

How Much Should I Pay My Pet Sitter?

Melissa Smith 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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