Keeping your pets healthy and safe this summer

1. Provide plenty of fresh water: Make sure your pet has access to clean and fresh water at all times, especially during hot summer days.

2. Keep your pet cool: Provide shade and a cool area for your pet to rest. Avoid leaving them outside for extended periods during the hottest parts of the day.

3. Never leave your pet in a parked car: Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can rise quickly, leading to heatstroke and even death. It's best to leave your pet at home if you can't bring them inside with you.

4. Watch out for hot pavement: Asphalt and concrete can get extremely hot in the summer, which can burn your pet's paws. Try to walk your pet on grass or shaded areas and avoid hot pavement as much as possible.

5. Beware of parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more prevalent during the summer months. Make sure your pet is up to date on flea and tick prevention and consider using mosquito repellents specifically made for pets.

6. Provide proper grooming: Regular grooming can help prevent heat-related issues such as matting and overheating. Brush your pet's coat to remove loose fur and consider a summer haircut for long-haired pets.

7. Be cautious around water: Not all pets are natural swimmers, so never leave them unattended near pools, lakes, or other bodies of water. If your pet enjoys swimming, make sure they are supervised and have a safe way to enter and exit the water.

8. Avoid toxic plants and chemicals: Some plants, such as lilies, can be toxic to pets if ingested. Additionally, certain chemicals used in fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides can be harmful. Keep your pet away from these substances and opt for pet-safe alternatives.

9. Prevent sunburn: Just like humans, pets can get sunburned. Protect your pet from sunburn by applying pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas, especially on pets with light-colored or thin fur.

10. Be mindful of fireworks and loud noises: Summer often brings fireworks and other loud noises, which can be stressful for pets. Keep them in a safe, quiet place during fireworks displays or other events that may cause anxiety.

Remember, the well-being of your pet is a top priority, so it's essential to take these precautions to ensure their safety during the summer months.

How to properly fit your dogs collar.

Properly fitting a dog collar is essential for the comfort and safety of your furry friend. Here are some steps to help you ensure a proper fit:

1. Measure your dog’s neck: Use a flexible tape measure or a piece of string to measure your dog’s neck circumference. Place the tape measure or string snugly around the base of the neck or where the collar will sit. Make sure to measure without adding any extra length. take into consideration your dogs coat, especially if it is thick.

2. Add the appropriate size allowance: Once you have measured your dog’s neck, add a few inches (or centimeters) to the measurement to allow for a comfortable fit. This extra space will ensure that the collar is not too tight and allows room for adjustments.

3. Choose the right width: Collars come in different widths, and the appropriate width depends on your dog’s size and breed. For small dogs, narrower collars are generally more suitable, while larger dogs may require wider collars for better support and durability.

4. Adjust the collar length: Most dog collars have adjustable buckles or slide adjustments to customize the length for a proper fit. Start with the collar at its longest length, and then gradually tighten it until it fits snugly around your dog’s neck without being too tight or too loose. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog’s neck.

5. Check for comfort and safety: Once the collar is fitted, check for comfort and safety:

• Ensure that the collar is not too tight or too loose. It should fit snugly without causing discomfort or chafing.

• Make sure the collar is not obstructing your dog’s breathing or swallowing.

• Check that the collar is not positioned too high on the neck, as it can put pressure on the throat or windpipe.

• Look for any signs of irritation or rubbing. If you notice any redness or sores, adjust the collar or consider using a different type of collar.

1. Regularly check and adjust: It’s important to regularly check the collar’s fit as your dog grows or gains/loses weight. Ensure that the collar is still appropriately sized and make any necessary adjustments to maintain a comfortable and secure fit.

How to check if a flat collar is fitted properly

It’s simple, stand in front of your dog, take hold of each side of the collar and try to take it off without undoing it.

If it slips over the dogs’ head, it’s obviously too loose. In this case, tighten it a little and repeat this process.

Prepping Your Pet For the Camera

Groom Your Pet in Advance

If you regularly take your dog to a groomer, try to schedule an appointment the week before your session to make sure that your pet isn’t looking too shaggy. If you do your grooming at home, give your dog a bath and brush them before your session.

Brush Up on Basic Commands

Getting great photos will partly depend on how well your dog obeys basic commands. So take some time in the weeks before your session to practice sit, stay, down, and any other commands your pup knows. However, if your dog doesn’t know any of these commands or is just too excited during your session to listen, don’t worry! I’m willing to be patient and work with you and your dog to still get some great images.

Bring a Few Favorite Things

Prior to your session, collect your pet’s favorite toy and treats. Treats are great for helping your dog to sit still and look their best for photos or even do a trick or two. Squeaky toys are always a great hit and help encourage your pet to make some of those adorable, playful expressions. Toys and treats are also a great way to get your pup to look at the camera.

Get Ready to Assist

Your pet is most interested in you, so when you’re not in the photo with your pet(s) you can really help guide your pet’s attention to the camera. Getting a pet to stay while you back away and come right on top of the camera is a great, fun way to assist and get in on the action of pet photography.

Pack a Bag with Goodies

In addition to favorite treats, pack some water and a bowl for outdoor sessions, as well as bags for picking up waste, a brush for grooming, and your best collar and leash. I will edit the leash removal from all pictures.