Raining Cats & Dogs

03/09/2025

Queens Road In Shepton - keep your eyes open for these two that escaped this morning.

03/09/2025

Today was all about my own cats. They had their well pet health review Shepton Vets and it was such a lovely experience.

Pavlova (left) has had lots of health issues in his 13 years and Gonk has nevr had an issue but is very scared of new people or being away from home.

Both cats were treated with such kindness.

I've been to many vets in my time with my animals, found animals and client pets so I know how stressful it can be for them - often made worse by long waits and surgery noise. Shepton vets were well organised and the vet we saw was really thorough.

Both cats now home and eating some salmon treats watching the rain.

03/09/2025

Little Meadow in the meadow

A rescued stray only 9 months old. She's only been with her owner for a month and is adapting really well.

New walks with dogs, especially recently rescued are all about observation. It's paying attention to triggers and understanding that everything is new for them.

Ex strays and dogs from other countries may have barely experienced rain before let alone farm animals or busy roads.

Walks can be over stimulating so the key is shorter walks and allowing them to sniff where they want and even, to some extent lead you to where they wish to go.

For you, I'd ask you not to react or feel anxious where possible. Recognise that dogs may pull on the lead in excitement so just slow your pace a little rather than quicken, use clear one word commands and do NOT forget treats.

Have a great Thursday

03/09/2025

New puppies and recently adopted dogs

I have quite a few dogs that I take out that are in training. They might be puppies or adult dogs that are newly adopted.

AS we all know, training can take a while in terms of recall but also the excitement to 'break free' and run like the Pedigree Chum advert dogs is often lurking.

Buying a good lead is great - I always bring my own leads house to house but try to use yours where I can.

Just as important, if not more is the harness. In the past I've had a few pups wriggle out of harnesses as many can come loose when a dog pulls. This is why I will alway take a pup to an enlcosed space initially and regularly check harnesses every fifteen minutes to ensure it is still fitting.

I really urge you to invest in a good harness if you can when training such as this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Harness-Reflective-Breathable-Adjustable-Training/dp/B0BGGR8TH3?th=1

The double strap and handle means you know that the dog is secure so you have peace of mind.

Huntboo Escape Proof Dog Harness - Every adventure is worth exploring with your furry friend! Our escape-proof dog harness is made with premium quality and fully reflective nylon fabrics, durable and breathable mesh,front and back 2 sturdy metal D-ring leash clips, and a padded handle. You will n...

01/09/2025

Poor old Cleo - currently in foster in Bristol and looking to spend her retirement in a calm kind home

01/09/2025

Finally in the 'ber' months. Autumn (though coming a little early) is my favourite time - that lovely quiet pause after summer holidays and before festive madness begins...mother nature gets ready for the long sleep.

Doggies enjoy the new scents and sounds of the world and kitties are jumping on falling leaves and cosying on laps at night.

Enjoy the pause

30/08/2025

Delilah was incredible today. Cats, park runners, cyclists, other dogs and general NOISE - took it all in her stride

29/08/2025

28/08/2025

Been blamed by all the felines I’ve visited in the last few days because of the rain.

28/08/2025

Private Dog Walking Fields - Shepton.

There are a few private dog walking fields around Shepton Mallet that are bookable. These are ideal for a variety of reasons: nervous dogs, reactive dogs, off lead training and recall.

If I feel a secure field is necessary with any training I will let you know though I haven't found this yet. Also, if you feel your dog would benefit from having a few sessions in this environment then please let me know.

These fields tend to cost around £10 an hour or £6 for half an hour - with a nominal cost for additional dogs. If needed, I will simply add this on to the cost of the walk at face value.

A great link below to find your closest field if holidaying outside the area.

https://britishdogfields.com

Photo : Elmo

28/08/2025

A client contacted me to say her dog had passed away suddenly this week.

He was a doggy I had seen recently for a two week sit.

When my cat of 12 years passed away, I remembered how upset my own pet sitter was...I really felt that with this - it's the first furry client that I've known to have passed away in all my time of doing this.

The pet is at peace but for the owner, life goes on but. with a big hole in it - life is centred around our furry friends. It's a beautiful friendship full of love and joy.

For me, I"m so grateful how you furry family accept me into their homes, lives and routines. They allow me to be alongside them, play with them and be a part of their lives - sometimes as a one off but also over years on a regular basis.

I'll miss seeing this little one, his little quirks and stubborn ways - enjoy heaven - I'm sure the treats are unlimited.

26/08/2025

I love living in Shepton. It doesn’t matter where my doggy clients are in the town, you’re always close to fields and open spaces.

Maybe I appreciate it more coming from the flats of Norfolk as I can see fields and hills above most of the houses here.

Max had a trial walk today - we both bossed it. He’s such a big soft teddy bear full of love.