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<p>As your trusted Oshkosh pet sitter, I've had the privilege of caring for countless furry friends throughout our community. With the new year upon us, I wanted to share some achievable resolutions that can make a real difference in your pet's life. These insights come from my years of experience providing personalized pet care to Oshkosh families.</p><h2>1. Establish a Consistent Exercise Routine</h2><p>Wisconsin winters can make it challenging to maintain regular exercise, but it's crucial for your pet's physical and mental well-being. As a professional dog sitter in Oshkosh, I've seen firsthand how regular exercise can transform a pet's behavior and overall happiness. Consider these winter-friendly options:</p><ul><li>Indoor obstacle courses for both cats and dogs</li><li>Scheduled play sessions at consistent times each day</li><li>Short, more frequent walks when temperatures allow</li><li>Interactive toys that encourage movement</li></ul><h2>2. Create a Preventive Health Calendar</h2><p>One of the most important things I've learned as an in-home pet sitter is that preventive care makes a huge difference. Create a calendar that includes:</p><ul><li>Regular vet check-ups</li><li>Monthly flea and tick treatments</li><li>Dental cleaning schedule</li><li>Grooming appointments</li><li>Medication refill dates</li></ul><figure id="figure-i0496iuzbm5mmvnu0"><img id="i0496iuzbm5mmvnu0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36v8BWAdaaN8sH4AxvkFLw8kPXtLFX9idyo5sLZrLqltaHar6wSx1fu6dziF67ac.jpg" alt="A happy blonde cockapoo playing fetch with colorful toys in a cozy living room, warm lighting, hardwood floor" title="A happy blonde cockapoo playing fetch with colorful toys in a cozy living room, warm lighting, hardwood floor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h2>3. Enrich Their Environment</h2><p>Whether you have a cat or dog, environmental enrichment is crucial. During my house sitting visits in Oshkosh, I've noticed that pets with enriching environments tend to be calmer and more content. Consider:</p><ul><li>Rotating toys weekly to maintain interest</li><li>Creating designated watching spots near windows</li><li>Setting up puzzle feeders for mental stimulation</li><li>Adding new scratching posts or toys seasonally</li></ul><h2>4. Plan for Their Care During Your Absence</h2><p>As your local Oshkosh pet sitter, I always recommend planning ahead for pet care when you're away. Make it a resolution to:</p><p>- Book pet sitting services well in advance<br>- Keep your pet's emergency information updated<br>- Maintain a consistent routine even when you're gone<br>- Have a backup care plan for unexpected situations</p><figure id="figure-q4ut0n5bwkm5mmpc34"><img id="q4ut0n5bwkm5mmpc34" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1EY7s6WVvS3Siwrq1t7hHv4LKyWxDxhmtB4kJvxlu0UQRulwTngw96JGoixH1Ags.jpg" alt="A pet sitter relaxes on a comfortable couch gently petting a content cat while checking a smartphone, warm evening lighting, cozy home environment, houseplants in background" title="A pet sitter relaxes on a comfortable couch gently petting a content cat while checking a smartphone, warm evening lighting, cozy home environment, houseplants in background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1EY7s6WVvS3Siwrq1t7hHv4LKyWxDxhmtB4kJvxlu0UQRulwTngw96JGoixH1Ags.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>5. Strengthen Your Bond</h2><p>The strongest pet families I work with as an in-home pet sitter make quality time a priority. Try:</p><ul><li>Setting aside 15 minutes of undivided attention daily</li><li>Learning new tricks together</li><li>Creating special traditions (like "Sunday Funday" play sessions)</li><li>Taking photos to document your journey together</li></ul><h2>6. Focus on Nutrition</h2><p>In my experience as a pet sitter in Oshkosh, nutrition plays a huge role in pet health. Consider:</p><ul><li>Measuring portions consistently</li><li>Gradually transitioning to healthier treats</li><li>Consulting your vet about diet improvements</li><li>Establishing regular feeding times</li></ul><h2>Personal Experience Corner</h2><p>As your Oshkosh pet sitter, I recently helped a client's elderly golden retriever, Max, adapt to a new exercise routine. By breaking up his daily walk into three shorter sessions, we managed to maintain his activity level while accommodating his joint sensitivity during cold weather. This simple change made a remarkable difference in his mobility and happiness.</p><h2>Looking Ahead</h2><p>Remember, these resolutions don't need to be tackled all at once. Start with one or two that resonate most with you and your pet's needs. As someone who provides professional pet sitting services throughout Oshkosh, I'm always happy to help maintain these new routines when you're away.</p><p>Need support with your pet care resolutions? As your dedicated Oshkosh pet sitter, I'm here to help maintain consistency in your pet's routine, whether you're home or away. Contact me to discuss how we can make 2025 your pet's best year yet!</p><p>---<br>CJ is a professional pet sitter in Oshkosh, WI, providing dedicated dog sitting, cat sitting, and in-home pet sitting services to local families. With 30+ years of experience, CJ is committed to ensuring your pets receive the best care possible in their own comfortable environment.</p>

New Year's Resolutions for Oshkosh Pet Parents: Making 2025 Your Pet's Best Year Yet

<p>Hello there, Oshkosh pet parents! I'm CJ, and I want to share why I'm passionate about providing personalized, in-home pet care rather than running a traditional doggy daycare. After years of working with pets, I've seen firsthand how dogs thrive with individualized attention in their own environment.</p><h2>The Comfort of Home</h2><p>While doggy daycare in Oshkosh offers group play, I've noticed that many dogs actually prefer staying in their familiar space. Your pup gets to nap in their favorite spot, play with their own toys, and stick to their regular routine. No adjustment stress, just comfortable, happy days at home.</p><figure id="figure-qxqstgivqem52uo7yg"><img id="qxqstgivqem52uo7yg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28Dwkrup22yngoqlbSf4yZ4usCwBedPuddm2pB9oIMgnI2yUKc4VbQIGzv2Oo2tm.jpg" alt="Female pet sitter walking a dog on a sidewalk on a tree-lined residential street, winter weather, midwest neighborhood setting" title="Female pet sitter walking a dog on a sidewalk on a tree-lined residential street, winter weather, midwest neighborhood setting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28Dwkrup22yngoqlbSf4yZ4usCwBedPuddm2pB9oIMgnI2yUKc4VbQIGzv2Oo2tm.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Personal Attention Matters</h2><p>Here's what makes my service different from a traditional doggy daycare setting - your dog gets my undivided attention. During my visits, we can focus on exactly what your pup loves, whether that's:</p><ul><li>Extended walks around your Oshkosh neighborhood</li><li>Playtime in your fenced yard</li><li>Training reinforcement</li><li>Cuddle sessions on their favorite couch</li><li>Specific feeding schedules</li></ul><figure id="figure-aissqj0nwm52uqwzn"><img id="aissqj0nwm52uqwzn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dv66Ojp9a99nrcYp8BjAMsxwz2nSRIJpLQJBrQRxombwn2yL9PYqkBC1B11kDEF.jpg" alt="A female pet sitter and dog entering home with caring expression, early winter morning light, as a male business professional is preparing to leave for work" title="A female pet sitter and dog entering home with caring expression, early winter morning light, as a male business professional is preparing to leave for work" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dv66Ojp9a99nrcYp8BjAMsxwz2nSRIJpLQJBrQRxombwn2yL9PYqkBC1B11kDEF.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Flexible Scheduling</h2><p>Unlike fixed doggy daycare hours in Oshkosh, I work around your schedule. Early morning meeting? Late evening event? No problem. Your dog stays comfortable at home while I provide care exactly when you need it.</p><h2>Why Choose In-Home Care?</h2><p>After serving countless pets in the Oshkosh area, I've seen these benefits consistently:</p><ul><li>Less stress for anxious or older dogs</li><li>No exposure to kennel cough or other shared space concerns</li><li>Maintained routine and diet</li><li>Regular updates about your pet's day</li><li>Peace of mind knowing your dog isn't competing for attention<br></li></ul><h2>An Example</h2><p>Let me share a quick story about Emma, a high-energy Lab who used to attend doggy daycare in Oshkosh. While she enjoyed playing with other dogs, her parents noticed she'd come home overtired and sometimes stressed. Since switching to my in-home care service, Emma gets the perfect balance of exercise and rest, following her normal routine while her family is at work.</p><h2>Beyond Just Dog Sitting</h2><p>When you're looking for doggy daycare in Oshkosh, consider the extra value that in-home care provides:</p><ul><li>House security with regular visits</li><li>Quick response to any pet needs</li><li>Flexible scheduling for last-minute changes</li><li>Regular photo updates</li><li>Maintenance of your dog's training progress<br></li></ul><h2>My Commitment</h2><p>As your local Oshkosh pet sitter, I'm committed to providing the kind of care I'd want for my own pets. That means reliability, communication, and lots of love for your furry family members.</p><h3>Ready to Try Something Better Than Traditional Doggy Daycare?</h3><p>If you're in Oshkosh and considering pet care options, let's talk about how in-home care could be perfect for your pup. I offer free meet-and-greets so you can see firsthand how I might be a great alternative to traditional doggy daycare.</p><p><a data-mce-href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact" href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact">Contact me</a> today to schedule a visit or learn more about how I can provide personalized care for your dog right in your Oshkosh home.&nbsp; Read more about my Doggy Daycare Services <a data-mce-href="https://cjspetsitting.com/doggy-daycare-oshkosh" href="https://cjspetsitting.com/doggy-daycare-oshkosh">here</a>.</p>

Why I Choose to Provide In-Home Care Instead of Traditional Doggy Daycare in Oshkosh

<p>As we welcome the New Year, let's keep our furry friends safe and comfortable during the celebrations. Here are some important tips to help your pets stay calm and protected:</p><p>Create a quiet space for your pet away from noise and crowds. A room with their favorite bed, toys, and fresh water can serve as a peaceful retreat. Consider playing soft music or white noise to mask firework sounds.</p><figure id="figure-y7dgxllt6rm52tv5pw"><img id="y7dgxllt6rm52tv5pw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6lSlBTD78L8h6Pgl2aYYRses0hcrwufQJi7eazbHRWM2Wiamv83d7wo7qAnodATL.jpg" alt="A younger brunette woman sitting on the floor next to a calm cat, New Year's holiday decorations in background, warm lighting." title="A younger brunette woman sitting on the floor next to a calm cat, New Year's holiday decorations in background, warm lighting." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6lSlBTD78L8h6Pgl2aYYRses0hcrwufQJi7eazbHRWM2Wiamv83d7wo7qAnodATL.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>Keep an eye on party treats and decorations. Chocolates, alcoholic drinks, and party snacks can be harmful to pets. Streamers and confetti might look tempting to curious pets but can cause serious problems if swallowed.</p><p>Make sure your pet's ID is up to date. The loud celebrations might startle pets, causing them to bolt. Updated ID tags and microchip information are crucial if your pet gets scared and runs away.</p><p>If you're celebrating away from home, consider professional pet sitting services. Having a trusted sitter means your pet can stay in their familiar environment while receiving caring attention during the festivities.</p><p>Need a pet sitter during the holidays?&nbsp; Give me a call at (920) 385-3736 or fill out my <a data-mce-href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact" href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact">contact form</a>.</p>

New Year's Eve Safety Tips for Your Pets

<p>The holidays are when I'm most vigilant about food safety during my pet sitting visits. Those delicious aromas and extra treats around the house can be super tempting for our four-legged friends! Here's what I keep in mind when watching over your pets:</p><h2>The "Definitely Not" List</h2><p>I've had my share of close calls with curious pets, so let me be clear about what's absolutely off-limits:<br></p><ul><li>Chocolate (especially those wrapped gifts under the tree!)</li><li>Anything with artificial sweeteners (particularly xylitol)</li><li>Cooked bones from turkey or ham</li><li>Garlic and onions (yes, even in stuffing)</li><li>Grapes and raisins (watch those fruitcakes!)</li><li>Rich, buttery foods that can upset tummies</li></ul><h2>Turkey Talk<br></h2><p>Here's something I've noticed - lots of folks think it's fine to share turkey with pets. While a tiny bit of plain, cooked turkey can be okay, I always remind my clients to skip the skin and seasoned meat. And those drippings everyone loves? Too rich for our furry friends.</p><figure id="figure-gh75funqhm52tixl8"><img id="gh75funqhm52tixl8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22psWUQ2EqaUW8qzboeMmhmf3BjAkxX3P6KsTEH8eFKMrAw9soZwxm7grIvlOmGw.jpg" alt="A pet sitter nudges a curious dog away from food on the counter.  A black and white dog " title="A pet sitter nudges a curious dog away from food on the counter.  A black and white dog " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22psWUQ2EqaUW8qzboeMmhmf3BjAkxX3P6KsTEH8eFKMrAw9soZwxm7grIvlOmGw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Counter Surfing Alert</h2><p>As a pet sitter, I've learned that even the best-behaved pets can turn into opportunistic snackers during the holidays. My pro tip? Keep counters clear and trash cans secured. You wouldn't believe how creative some pets get when they smell something tempting!</p><h2>Safe Treating<br></h2><p>Want to include your pets in the holiday feast? I keep pet-safe options on hand for my clients:</p><ul><li>Small pieces of plain, cooked turkey (no skin or seasoning)</li><li>Raw or steamed carrots</li><li>Plain green beans</li><li>A spoonful of pure pumpkin (not the pie filling!)</li></ul><figure id="figure-yfqpf7luim52tf2fc"><img id="yfqpf7luim52tf2fc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22CBY7wPKMFlf4lzFk4FjWZQCaVi7pHNjqOHOibd6kpFLBkuUOQKvp3Oir6UxX2j.jpg" alt="A blonde, middle-aged pet sitter eating at a dinner table during Christmas with a dog and a cat looking at the food.  Candles and holiday decorations adorn the table." title="A blonde, middle-aged pet sitter eating at a dinner table during Christmas with a dog and a cat looking at the food.  Candles and holiday decorations adorn the table." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22CBY7wPKMFlf4lzFk4FjWZQCaVi7pHNjqOHOibd6kpFLBkuUOQKvp3Oir6UxX2j.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Emergency Preparedness</h2><p>During holiday visits, always keep your vet's number handy, along with the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic. Better safe than sorry, right?</p><h2>A Quick Story<br></h2><p>Last Christmas, I was watching a clever Lab who managed to snag a chocolate cookie when someone left it on a coffee table. Quick action and a call to the vet turned what could have been an emergency into just a cautionary tale. It reminded me why I'm extra careful during holiday pet sitting visits.</p><p>Remember: When I'm watching your pets during the holidays, my priority is keeping them safe and happy - which sometimes means being the "fun police" when it comes to holiday treats! Let's save the festive feasting for the humans and keep our pets happy with their regular food and pet-safe treats.</p><p>Need a pet sitter during the holidays? &nbsp;Give me a call at (920) 385-3736 or fill out my contact form.</p>

Holiday Food Safety for Pets - What I've Learned as a Pet Sitter

<p>As a pet sitter who cares for pets in many different homes, I've learned that every holiday brings its own unique safety considerations. Hanukkah, with its beautiful traditions and eight nights of celebration, requires some special attention to keep our furry family members safe. Let me share what I've learned from years of caring for pets during this special time.</p><h2>Menorah Safety: The Heart of Hanukkah</h2><figure id="figure-u2eg86bf7cm4bi72l5"><img id="u2eg86bf7cm4bi72l5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/154QhkWNGNoSk55A0DlCG47ztiCabOXV62GsbngnluQsHjKN261yj0BCKZUeOT7b.jpg" alt="A curious small dog sits on a floor, a menorah with all 9 candles is displayed on a fireplace shelf, warm candlelight, modern home setting" title="A curious small dog sits on a floor, a menorah with all 9 candles is displayed on a fireplace shelf, warm candlelight, modern home setting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/154QhkWNGNoSk55A0DlCG47ztiCabOXV62GsbngnluQsHjKN261yj0BCKZUeOT7b.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>The menorah is central to Hanukkah celebrations, and as someone who's watched many curious pets around open flames, I've gathered some important safety tips:</p><ul><li>Place the menorah well out of reach of wagging tails and jumping cats</li><li>Consider using an elevated surface away from curtains and other hazards</li><li>Create a secure barrier around the menorah area during lighting</li><li>Never leave lit candles unattended with pets</li><li>Keep matches and lighters safely stored</li><li>Consider LED options if you have especially curious pets</li></ul><h2>Dreidel Games and Small Objects</h2><p>Last year, I was pet sitting for the Cohen family when their puppy, Bailey, decided a dreidel looked like the perfect chew toy! Here's what I've learned about keeping game pieces safe:</p><ul><li>Store dreidels and gelt out of reach when not in use</li><li>Supervise all play with small objects</li><li>Count game pieces before and after play</li><li>Consider larger, pet-safe versions for homes with pets</li><li>Keep an eye on gift wrap and ribbons from gelt</li></ul><figure id="figure-mz0rqm3gsxm4bia2e5"><img id="mz0rqm3gsxm4bia2e5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9xpuaESCg7Rze2uwIMnptkkuCKmi5kecd4pNHEbHY9TKJYd5bphSmLa7HqBdFmHH.jpg" alt="A cozy pet bed area decorated with pet-safe blue and white Hanukkah decorations, puzzle toys, soft lighting, home setting" title="A cozy pet bed area decorated with pet-safe blue and white Hanukkah decorations, puzzle toys, soft lighting, home setting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9xpuaESCg7Rze2uwIMnptkkuCKmi5kecd4pNHEbHY9TKJYd5bphSmLa7HqBdFmHH.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Food Safety During Festivities</h2><p>Traditional Hanukkah foods smell wonderful to our pets, but some can be hazardous. Here's my quick guide:</p><ul><li>Keep latkes out of reach (fried foods can cause upset tummies)</li><li>Watch out for onions and garlic in traditional dishes</li><li>Secure olive oil and other cooking oils</li><li>Be careful with chocolate gelt - chocolate is toxic to pets</li><li>Store sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) safely away</li></ul><h2>Managing Holiday Gatherings</h2><p>Eight nights of celebration means multiple gatherings! Here's how I help pets stay comfortable:</p><ul><li>Set up a quiet room away from the festivities</li><li>Maintain regular feeding and walking schedules</li><li>Brief guests on pet safety rules</li><li>Watch doors during guest arrivals</li><li>Keep pet emergency numbers handy</li></ul><h2>Creating Pet-Safe Celebrations</h2><figure id="figure-ny05c78dfom4bih3eg"><img id="ny05c78dfom4bih3eg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/25n3GIPhid0Rh5fzqGNWCgRrizTzMmaJaUlwn5VRyg4P1x7vIvmd9vCTnZTJk5dl.jpg" alt="A dog looks on at a Hannukah family gathering" title="A dog looks on at a Hannukah family gathering" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/25n3GIPhid0Rh5fzqGNWCgRrizTzMmaJaUlwn5VRyg4P1x7vIvmd9vCTnZTJk5dl.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>I love helping pets participate safely in the holiday! Some ideas I use with my clients:</p><ul><li>Offer pet-safe treats in blue and white colors</li><li>Create holiday-themed puzzle toys</li><li>Use pet-safe decorations at their level</li><li>Maintain consistent routines despite the excitement</li></ul><h2>My Emergency Preparation Tips</h2><p>As a professional pet sitter, I always ensure:<br></p><ul><li>Emergency vet information is readily available</li><li>Pet first aid kit is stocked and accessible</li><li>Clear paths to exits are maintained</li><li>All holiday supplies are securely stored</li><li>A list of toxic items is posted</li></ul><p>Remember, enjoying Hanukkah with pets just takes a little extra planning. If you're celebrating this year and need someone to check on your pets, I'm here to help keep them safe and happy throughout all eight nights!</p><p>Happy Hanukkah to you and your pets, 🕍🕎<br>CJ</p><p>Need a pet sitter during the holidays? &nbsp;Give me a call at (920) 385-3736 or fill out my <a data-mce-href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact" href="https://cjspetsitting.com/contact">contact form</a>.</p>

Keeping Pets Safe During Hanukkah: A Pet Sitter's Guide to the Festival of Lights

<p>After spending five holiday seasons caring for other people's beloved pets (and keeping my own mischievous cat, Luna, from redesigning my Christmas tree), I've learned that holiday pet-proofing is an art form. Just last year, I walked in on my client's puppy, Max, treating himself to a tinsel buffet – thankfully, we caught him before any damage was done! Let me share what I've learned about keeping our four-legged family members safe during the festive season.</p><h2>The Christmas Tree Challenge</h2><figure id="figure-qw8hapfi8zm4bh9rlb"><img id="qw8hapfi8zm4bh9rlb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0WSWDNbvRYwQK5sP7wUT3sETMMqWWWFjzN8Y6SE2JVnBDnDYd3ybzof4dYH5vu00.jpg" alt="A decorated Christmas tree secured to the wall with a decorative tree skirt, plastic ornaments on lower branches, no tinsel, warm living room lighting, pet-safe holiday decorating" title="A decorated Christmas tree secured to the wall with a decorative tree skirt, plastic ornaments on lower branches, no tinsel, warm living room lighting, pet-safe holiday decorating" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0WSWDNbvRYwQK5sP7wUT3sETMMqWWWFjzN8Y6SE2JVnBDnDYd3ybzof4dYH5vu00.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>I'll never forget walking into the Johnson's home to find their cat, Mittens, swinging from a branch halfway up their Christmas tree. While it made for a hilarious photo, it taught me some valuable lessons about tree safety:</p><ul><li>Secure your tree to the wall (trust me on this one!)</li><li>Keep trees in a corner where they're less likely to be "explored"</li><li>Use a tree skirt to cover the water reservoir – tree water can contain harmful chemicals</li><li>Skip the tinsel entirely – it's just too tempting for pets</li><li>Consider a smaller table-top tree if you have especially curious pets</li></ul><h2>Hidden Hazards: The Decorations Dilemma</h2><p>Over the years, I've developed what I call my "paw-level rule" – anything within reach of curious paws needs extra attention:</p><ul><li>Opt for plastic or wood ornaments below the midpoint of your tree</li><li>Secure ornaments with twist ties instead of hooks</li><li>Keep lights and electrical cords covered or taped down</li><li>Store gift wrapping supplies in closed containers</li><li>Be especially careful with ribbon and string – these are irresistible to cats!</li></ul><h2>Plants and Presents: The Pretty but Problematic</h2><figure id="figure-hm7snzt7crm4bhi867"><img id="hm7snzt7crm4bhi867" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/391cWMSwYX4QJdKYce41QpZLF2qYImEZqRzdUKytOjGEI20U4m38QmOsvur9atil.jpg" alt="A small dog and a cute kitten are curious about a poinsettia plant that is perched on a coffee table" title="A small dog and a cute kitten are curious about a poinsettia plant that is perched on a coffee table" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><p>Working with pets has made me incredibly aware of holiday plants. Here's what I keep out of reach:</p><ul><li>Poinsettias (while not deadly, they can cause upset tummies)</li><li>Holly and mistletoe (these are the real troublemakers)</li><li>Christmas cactus (safest up high)</li><li>Artificial alternatives are your friends!</li></ul><p>For presents:<br></p><ul><li>Keep wrapped gifts in a closed room or high shelf until Christmas</li><li>Watch for edible gifts that might tempt pets</li><li>Remove ribbons and bows as soon as gifts are opened</li></ul><figure id="figure-wnvrsoc8u9m4bhejg9"><img id="wnvrsoc8u9m4bhejg9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27ENfkT96jfXoLaaBTllc5itDFWf432Povy1o8BhHZGopnw0ZhphU0TcnPOgY6EP.jpg" alt="Wrapped Christmas presents arranged on an elevated surface or closed shelf, no dangling ribbons, secure wrapping, holiday decor in background, warm lighting" title="Wrapped Christmas presents arranged on an elevated surface or closed shelf, no dangling ribbons, secure wrapping, holiday decor in background, warm lighting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27ENfkT96jfXoLaaBTllc5itDFWf432Povy1o8BhHZGopnw0ZhphU0TcnPOgY6EP.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>My Emergency Prep Recommendations</h2><p>As someone who's spent more than one holiday evening at the emergency vet (not with my clients, thankfully, but it taught me to be prepared!), here's what I suggest:</p><ul><li>Keep your vet's emergency number handy</li><li>Know your closest 24/7 emergency vet clinic</li><li>Have a pet first aid kit ready</li><li>Save the pet poison control number: (888) 426-4435</li></ul><h2>Food Safety During Festivities</h2><p>The number of times I've had to kindly but firmly tell well-meaning guests not to share their plates! Here's my quick guide:</p><ul><li>Keep holiday treats in sealed containers</li><li>Brief your guests on no-sharing rules</li><li>Watch the punch bowl and alcoholic beverages</li><li>Be careful with sugar-free treats containing xylitol</li></ul><h2>Making It Special (and Safe!)</h2><p>I love helping my client pets enjoy the holidays safely. Here's how:</p><ul><li>Set up pet-safe decorations at their level</li><li>Create holiday enrichment activities (puzzle toys are great!)</li><li>Maintain regular routines despite the chaos</li><li>Provide plenty of approved holiday treats</li></ul><p>Remember, a safe holiday is a happy holiday. If you're traveling this season, I'm here to help make sure your pets enjoy the festivities as safely as you do!</p><p>Wishing you and your pets a wonderful, safe holiday season, 🎄🎅<br>CJ</p>

CJ's Pet Sitting in Oshkosh

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