The Bandito Bulletin - December 2021

End of Year Review​
Happy Holiday Season! As we close out another trip around the sun I feel like I have learned a lot over the past year and would like to start sharing information on a regular basis. Topics will stem from questions that clients have come to me for advice on over the past 10 years and also tidbits you may not even be aware that you wanted to know! Let’s learn and grow together. 

Did you know?
Mental stimulation helps:
-Decrease boredom
-Releases pent-up energy
-Increases confidence
-Keeps the memory sharp
-Improves trainability
-Strengthens your bond
-Gives the feeling of accomplishment
 
Mental stimulation examples:
-Nose work
-Hide and seek
-Obedience & trick training
-Agility/obstacle course

​Pet Spotlight - Bosch

Over the course of the past 10 years I’ve been privileged to meet and work with so many different pets of all sizes and species. Mr. Bosch is one of the original Bandito members! We first met in 2011 when I worked at a kennel in Duxbury. It didn’t take long for his family and I to form a solid connection with each other that led them to staying with me as I started and grew my own business. They consider me extended family and the feeling is mutual.

Bosch is about 10 years young now and was a rescue from down south. He did struggle for a long time with separation anxiety and he is definitely the happiest surrounded by his people. He loves long walks on the beach, hide and seek, treats of many varieties and LOVES car rides to anywhere. He was visibly saddened when Bandit died, as they were best buddies and we helped each other to heal. He is a gentle giant in more ways than not and I look forward to caring for him during his retirement years.  

Holiday Plants 101

The following plants can cause stomach upset, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, perforated stomach or throat (from sharp needles), head shaking, lip smacking, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, lack of appetite, increased or decreased urination, seizures and even death.

Seek immediate veterinary help if you believe your pet has been exposed and/or ingested any of the following: Christmas cactus, Christmas rose, Christmas trees, Holly, Lilies, Mistletoe and Poinsettias.

Here are some safer alternatives: Autumn Olive, Bromeliads, Roses and Rosemary.

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Enrichment Zone - Sniffari

What the heck is a sniffari? A sniffari is a type of dog (or cat!) walk where they can spend as much time sniffing around as they like. The walk length may be very short but by letting your dog sniff everything they will burn as many calories as if they had been on a long walk and mentally will be very satisfied!

Pro tip: use a long leash for sniffaris. Recommended lengths: 10 ft, 15 ft or 20 ft. Need guidance on handling a long leash? Send me a message, I can give you a lesson!