Taking Care of Your Dog’s Choppers

February 11th, 2012 by 2hounds



February is Pet Dental Health Month, and NOVADog Magazine is marking the occasion by reminding pet owners about the importance of regular dental care for their four-legged loved ones.

Preventive tooth care is not only necessary for pets, it’s financially sound for pet owners. According to Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the average claim last year for pet teeth cleaning was $164. In contrast, the average claim amount for treating tooth-related disease was $238. Keeping your pets teeth and gums clean can actually save you money.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), an organization dedicated to advancing the science and art of veterinary medicine, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of 3.

Pet owners should have their pets’ oral and dental health evaluated regularly by a veterinarian. Between regular check-ups, pet owners should look for the warning signs of gum disease such as bad breath, red and swollen gums, yellow-brown crusts of tartar along the gum lines, and bleeding or pain when the gums or mouth are touched.

For a detailed video on how to care for your dog’s teeth between professional cleanings, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsNlLLSBWLU

Our partners are celebrating Pet Dental Month with the following specials and savings: (make sure to tell them NOVADog sent you!)

Nova Mobile vet: During the month of February, get 10% off the complete cost of the dental. That includes the exam, blood work, anesthesia, extractions, and any medications. Have any questions or want an individual estimate? Please e-mail amylvt@novamobilevet.com to schedule your pet’s dental. Visit them online at www.novamobilevet.com

Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates: Dog and Cat owners can save $120.00 on scaling and polishing for dentals, during the month of February. Appointments 7 days a week…   Filling up fast.   Call for appointment. 540-338-7387. Or email info@blueridgevets.com for additional information.  visit them online at  www.blueridgevets.com

Bark N Bubbles Dog Wash:  During the month of February, for only $5 you can receive a pre-treatment spray that helps loosen up the tartar, a water pick treatment and finish with a good tooth brushing to get those teeth clean!!! Visit them online at www.barknbubblesdogwash.com

Dogma Gourmet Dog Bakery and Boutique—Shirlington location. During the month of February, come in Tues – Saturday to get your dog’s teeth cleaned for $10 with Cassandra.  No appointment necessary.  Also receive a free teeth cleaning for first-time grooming appointments for the rest of February. Visit them online at www.dogmabakery.com

DogtopiaIs celebrating pet dental month on Wednesday, February 22nd at the following Dogtopia locations: Herndon, Tysons Corner, & White Flint locations.  They will be giving away pet tooth brushes to any new or current client that come to visit on that day. For more information, visit www.dogdaycare.com/

Uptown Pet Bistro and Boutique: Sunday, February 12 is customer Appreciation Day. Save 10% on Food 15% on everything else. Stock up on dental wipes and breath drops.  First time customers always receive a 20% discount.  Cannot be used with any other discounts. Visit them online at www.uptownpetboutique.com

Whole Pet Central, Inc: Now carries the Vet Tech Dental Care System that’s designed for senior dogs or cats, or ones at any age that have sensitive teeth or gums.  It’s a brush that uses a microfiber pad with a cleansing liquid.  The liquid does not contain any artificial colors or flavors.  It’s a good alternative for dogs or cats that resist the tooth brush, as the pad is wiped across the teeth instead of the brushing with bristles. Visit them online at www.wholepetcentral.com/store/

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Prince William County Residents and Park Authority Work Together to Build County’s First Dog Park

February 8th, 2012 by 2hounds


In 2002, a needs assessment conducted by Prince William County (PWC) identified off-leash dog parks as the number one write in request from citizens. 10 years later, that request is finally on the horizon of becoming a reality. Following many legislation revisions, discerning an appropriate location, passing through the Parks Planning Commission, and continued community support throughout the span of a decade, The Prince William County Park Authority Board of Directors voted on a master dog park plan at 13251 Sturbridge Rd, Lake Ridge VA  (near the intersection of Minnieville Road and Colby Drive) this past October, voting unanimously in its favor. While two other privately owned dog parks operate in Manassas and Gainesville, this park will be the first in Prince William County supported by the Park Authority.

While the dog park is supported by the Prince William County Park Authority and the Prince William County Parks Foundation, all expenses for the construction of the park must be privately funded by citizens, and Prince William County Residents have formed a support group  to encourage volunteer involvement, in kind donations, and corporate and individual sponsorships to give the county’s furry friends a place to play. The Mission of Prince William County Dogs (PWC Dogs) is to work in partnership with the Park Authority and Parks Foundation to establish a fenced -in, off-leash dog park where well-behaved canine citizens can exercise in a clean, safe environment, and educate the community on responsible pet ownership.

 

Fence installation costs are estimated by the Prince William County Park Authority to be $12,050. However, this cost does not include additional amenities to enhance the park, such as waste bag dispensers, benches, bulletin boards, and park water supply. Thus far, the group has raised approximately $1,000 and is partnering with local community individuals and businesses to continue raising the funds needed to construct the park. In 2011, Occoquan restaurant Cock and Bowl supported the Dog Park through a series of Yappy Hour proceeds nights, and there are local fundraising efforts taking place in the month of February to further the group’s fundraising efforts. PWC Dogs fundraisers are in place for February, and like all great community efforts, need additional community support to be successful!

Amanda Sterber, a Scentsy consultant in the area, will be donating a portion of her wickless candle sales to the dog park (anywhere from 20-25%). Additionally, in the month of February all Scentsy products are 10% off for customers, so it’s very much a “give and get” month-long fundraiser.  You can support  this fundraiser at https://wicklessmoments.scentsy.us/.

Additionally, Dogtopia of Manassas will be having an indoor dog park event this Sunday, February 12th at their doggie daycare and boarding facility (10352 Balls Ford Road  Manassas, VA 20109), and charging $5 for current Dogtopia Manassas customers, $10 for non-customers as a benefit for the PWC Dog Park (all attending dogs must be up to date on their vaccinations to party, just as they should be when the actual dog park opens!). Dogtopia has been promoting this on their Facebook page if you need additional information about the event. Big pups play 11am-1pm, little dogs play from 1-3pm.

If you can’t support a fundraiser but would like to donate, you can do so online or by check. The Prince William County Park Foundation has set up a separate holding account for any donations solicited for dog parks in the count, and have requested that donors clearly identify that the donation is to go toward supporting dog parks. All donations are tax-deductible!

To Donate Online, simply go to http://www.pwcparks.org/parksfoundation/SupportYourParks/MakeaGift/tabid/730/Default.aspx for the direct link to the PWC Parks Foundation giving page.  Once there, simply click on the “Donate” link and fill out your credit card information. When you are asked to confirm your donation on the next page there will be a little box that asks for “Instructions to Seller”. In this box, write “DOG PARK” or something noting your donation is restricted for Dog Park use.

Checks should be mailed to: The Prince William County Park Foundation, Dog Park Account, 14420 Bristow Road, Manassas, VA 20112. Once again, please make sure donations specifically state “Dog Park Account” on it. The Park Foundation supports a number of community projects, so if your donation is in support of the Dog Park, you must note this to ensure it goes there!

PWC Dogs meets as a group on the second Thursday of each month, and new volunteers are always welcome. You can also visit the Prince William County Dogs Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/pwcdogs for continued updates on fundraising events and ways to volunteer. You can also follow them on Twitter at @pwcdogs.

In order to get more involved with volunteering, fundraising, donating, or hosting fundraising events for the Prince William County Dog Park, contact Lynn Heun, Community Partnership Coordinator, at princewilliamcountydogs@gmail.com.

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Bringing Home Your New Dog

January 28th, 2012 by 2hounds


January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

HERE IS BLOG POST #5:

Bringing Home Your New Dog



by Brian Kerchner, Good Dog Workshop, LLC

No matter how excited you and your family are to greet your newest pack member, your goal is a calm, balanced pup. Here are the steps to head you in the right direction.

First, you need to establish yourself as Leader with your new dog using calm and confident energy. When you show your dog that kind of Leadership, he’ll respond with respect and trust—and that’s the first step to achieving a happy, healthy and balanced relationship with a dog.

Next is the most important part: the initial walk. Make it a long walk—the longer the better. The walk offers so many benefits to a dog: it releases energy which ultimately relaxes the mind and makes him more receptive to training; it strengthens the bond between you and your dog; and, it reminds him which end of the leash is the Leader and which end is the Follower.

Next, lead him around your yard. The size of the yard doesn’t matter. What’s important is that YOU, the pack Leader, are introducing him to his new surroundings, and make sure you explore his new environment with him. Letting him race around or sniff on his own at this point is allowing too much freedom too soon and will not reinforce his status as a Follower.

Lastly, when you enter your home with him, remind him he can only enter calmly. This is your “den” and he must be respectful of it.

Do all these steps with calm, confident energy and you’ll be off to a great start with your new dog.

About Good Dog Workshop: Brian Kerchner (pictured above with Morgan, Rose and Aston) founded Good Dog Workshop with one aim in mind: helping dogs. After years of seeing so many people struggle with their dogs’ behavioral issues, he recognized the need to help people understand and communicate with their dogs. In essense, to teach them to “Speak Dog”. Brian has been a student of dogs for many years. His interest in dog behavior combined with his passion to help dogs led him to volunteer with dog rescue groups where he has fostered and found homes for dozens of dogs and continues to evaluate dogs and provide in-home assistance to people who might otherwise have surrendered their dogs.

10% OFF your next Evaluation or Training Session. Need a review of some techniques you learned from us? Want to learn some advanced skills? Or maybe you have a new canine addition to your family. Whatever your behavior training need is, now is a great time to call Good Dog Workshop! Start off the New Year by making your relationship with your dog even better! To receive the discount, just mention NOVADog Magazine when you call to schedule your appointment. Contact Brian at 703.489.1319  or visit www.GoodDogWorkshop.com.

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Training for the Real World

January 25th, 2012 by 2hounds


January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

HERE IS BLOG POST #4:

Training for the Real World: Make Training a Way of Life



By Jenn Garan Guerriero of Big City Dogs (www.bigcitydogs.net)

So many people who make the effort to train their dogs think they need to spend an hour a day or more focusing on exercises. The truth is, every interaction you have with your dog you are in fact training—So make everything count.

Make your dog sit before feeding him/her, sit at doorways even when you are entering a dog park, sit at curbs before crossing the street, wait or stay on a stairwell until you pass by, down or place while you are preparing and/or eating your meals.

Anytime you pick up the leash, practice loose leash walking even if you are in a hurry. If you only require obedience during structured time slots, then your dog will master those skills only in those time lots and when you really need it he/she will fall short.

One of the biggest distractions for a dog on leash out for a walk is another dog. Many dog owners allow their dog to pull when they see another dog because of the over the top excitement the dog has. This may seem innocent in and of itself but can be dangerous for both you and your dog at any given time. Not all dogs are friendly nor want to be approached, and not all people are prepared for the sudden jolt.

In addition, dogs who struggle to get to another dog while the owner pulls back on the leash to try to control the dog can build so much frustration in a dog that eventually turns in to leash aggression. As a trainer, I like to teach impulse control and allow dogs to approach another dog only if given permission. I don’t want a dog to think any and every dog is a cue for them to engage.

I prefer them to take their cues from the handler. Once you know the other dog is friendly and you want to interact make sure your dog is under control before approaching. If they can show signs of control around another dog, the ultimate reward is to approach and engage. Control doesn’t happen on it’s own, you have to work at it.

Jenn Garan Guerriero of Big City Dogs brings City Wise common sense training to both owners and dogs. Her training is based on the specific needs of each family and their dog. With extensive experience of the city and life in urban environments, Jenn brings a strong foundation of comprehensive approaches matched with experience and learning from the University of City Life to help owners and their dogs to enjoy the very best of living together. Contact Jenn at www.bigcitydogs.net or 917.628.8015.

Receive a 10% discount on private training when you mention you saw this on the NOVADog Blog!

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Reward Appropriate Behavior

January 22nd, 2012 by 2hounds


January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

HERE IS BLOG POST #3:

Reward Appropriate Behavior



By Anne Davis, Rudy’s Friends Dog Training

Dogs have difficulty doing two things at the same time. If your dog is doing something you don’t like give him a more appropriate behavior. Find something that your dog does well and build on it. A great example of this is our reactive 11-year-old Lab, Rudy. We have glass in our front door and he lets us know if anything moves outside. I let him bark once or twice since that’s his job,  and then I ask him to sit. My voice is calm but the tone is urgent. Rudy usually sits quickly and then just quietly watches the distraction outside.

Does your dog jump on you when you come home? There’s an easy solution: Have several wonderful treats in your hand as you come through the door—which means you may need to keep a stash in your car or garage.

Calmly but quickly extend your hand with a treat out to the dog’s nose. This helps to keep him away from your body.

Try to have him sit and quickly reward. Repeat, repeat, repeat!

Make it happy and fun so now it’s a game. Your dog sees you and he sits.
The same technique can be used as you open the crate door. Quickly allow the dog to smell the treat and ask for a sit. Reward well and use lots of praise which reinforces the idea that good things happen when your dog responds to you.

Winter is a great time of year to concentrate on dog training. The holidays are over, many outdoor sports are on hold until spring and family routines are back on schedule. Rudy’s Friends is adding more Basic Manners classes to our calendar at Pro Feed in Vienna with sessions during the morning, evening and on week-ends. The groups are small, 4 dogs, so everyone gets lots of attention! Find out more at www.RudysFriendsDogTraining.com.

Anne Davis (pictured above with Rudy, Missie and Cooper) is a Certified Dog Trainer and owner of Rudy’s Friends Dog Training, which is rated “A” by the Better Business Bureau. She is also affiliated with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and the International Association of Canine Professionals. Contact her at www.RudysFriendsDogTraining.com or 703.395.9450.

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Slow Down and Be Quiet: A Strategy for Reactive Dogs

January 17th, 2012 by 2hounds


January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

HERE IS BLOG POST #2:

Slow Down and Be Quiet: A Strategy for Reactive Dogs

By Keri Putonen, Unleashed abilities

When a dog is in a heightened state of excitement or anxiety it is important for the handler to remain as calm and quiet as possible. This can be difficult. Our first reaction to an excited or reactive dog is to get excited ourselves. There are many dogs who are reactive to various things…other dogs, squirrels, the mailman, etc…

When I’m out walking my own dogs  I see people with reactive dogs who are jerking the leash and shouting at their dogs to “Sit!” or “Be Quiet” or Stop It!”.

Generally, the dog is completely ignoring the owner and the owners actions are only adding to the chaos. Next time, try waiting patiently, with a high-value treat in hand, for your dog to settle down.  As soon as your dog makes eye contact with you, reward, reward, reward.

Teach your dog that the sooner they settle down and look at you, the sooner they will get a delicious goodie. You will quickly notice that the time it takes for your dog to calm down will decrease.

Remember that your dog will mirror your energy. Take a deep breath, relax, and pay attention. Your dog will do what you want if you guide them gently and use the right motivation. Be drama-free. It’s so much nicer for you and for your dog.

Keri Putonen is the founder and lead trainer at Unleashed Abilities in Falls Church, VA. Contact Keri for more information or a consultation at 703-371-9800 or keri.putonen@unleashedabilities.com

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4 Swimming Safety Tips for Dogs Afraid of Water

January 12th, 2012 by 2hounds


*This blog posting is a supplement of NOVADog Magazine. Read the Destinations article, where writer Sophia Malakooti explores local indoor doggie swimming pools with her canine sidekick Lilo. (click here)

So you want to take advantage of one of the many local indoor swimming facilities for dogs that we listed in the Winter issue of NOVADog Magazine? But what if your dog is not that crazy about water in the first place? There are many health benefits of swimming for your furry friend, but if he is skittish around water you’ll want to take it slowly so as not to traumatize him even more. Brian Dove, Pet Care Director at Olde Towne Pet Resort, gives us some tips.

While most people assume dogs are natural swimmers or instantly comfortable in water, experienced dog handlers and pet care professionals know this is just not the case. “Some dogs do have a fear of the water,” says Dove. “Pet parents have to work with their dogs and encourage them around water to build their confidence.”

Dove, who has witnessed his fair share of dogs avoiding indoor swimming or any kind of water-related activity, says owners should not feel too immediately discouraged. “With a little time, encouragement, consistency and patience, water-fearing dogs can become far more at ease and experience less trepidation about swimming or water play.”

For families with H20-phobic canines, Dove shares the following tips for helping your pup adapt and overcome his or her fear of water:

1. Introduce bodies of water during regular walks. If you are able to walk your dog off leash in a park where there is a body of water, walk your dog towards the water and gently splash water their way. Encourage water play and stay positive to build their confidence.

2. Play water fetch. As your dog becomes more comfortable around water, try playing fetch by throwing a ball in the water. This will provide your dog with first-hand experience being in the water during a fun activity. Additionally, the fun play time will help to distract your doggie from his or her water phobia or discomfort.

3. Try a baby pool at home. This tip may not work well for larger dogs or breeds but for smaller dogs, it may work just fine. Simply, try helping your canine family member continue his or her water activity or water exposure at home using a baby pool. This allows your pet the opportunity to extend water play time from outdoors to indoors.

4. Use personal floatation device (PFDs). “PFDs are very important,” shares Dove. “You want to make sure your dog’s PDF is secure, comfortable and fits well around their chest.” The PDFs harness, adds Dove, allows you to quickly lift your dog in and around the water quickly, easily and as necessary. “If the dog begins to sink in the water, the harness allows for effortless retrieval of your pet.”

Ultimately, the most important factor in helping your dog overcome his or her fear of the water is building up their confidence. “If your dog refuses to get into the water, do not try to stress them,” shares Dove, who has seen many a dog owner become frustrated or want to give up. “You can’t force the dog to like or want to be in the water. It takes multiple times and gradual baby steps to get a dog feeling ready, willing and able to engage in water activity.”

Brian Dove is Pet Care Director of Olde Towne Pet Resort Dulles. For more than nine years, Olde Towne Pet Resort has provided Northern Virginia and Washington DC metro area canines and felines premier boarding, day camp and grooming services. For more information, please visit www.OldeTownePetResort.com or contact 703.455.9000.

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Socialization: The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Dog

January 9th, 2012 by 2hounds


January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

HERE IS BLOG POST #1:

Socialization: The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Dog

By Fur-Get Me Not (www.furgetmenot.com)

Socialization is the most important activity you can do for yourself and the greatest gift you can give your dog. A well socialized dog can learn and perform obedience cues in a variety of environments and different distractions. A dog that is good at responding to obedience cues in a familiar setting but not well socialized becomes unpredictable outside of his comfort zone and all the obedience training goes out the window.

Socialization is not only about exposing the dog to new environments, people, animals and objects and making it a good experience. It is a life-long commitment that also will allow your dog to experience a full life outside of your own four walls. It will help maintain a confident dog that can exert self-control and has the ability to think for himself and look for guidance from the owner when confused on what to do in a situation. A dog that you can bring anywhere.

TRAINING TIP BROUGHT TO YOU BY: The dog trainers at Fur-Get Me Not, 4140 S Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington, VA 22206.  Fur-Get Me Not offers puppy and group classes via a teaching structure called Levels Training. This allows each student to attend class at an individual pace as the same classes are offered a couple of times a week and gives ultimate flexibility to attend at different days or multiple times each week if so desired. Visit them at www.furgetmenot.com for more information.

SPECIAL EVENTS: Fur-Get Me Not is holding several events  and workshops this month. A great chance for you to get out and get involved with your dog! (www.furgetmenot.com for more information about each event!)

Ask the Trainer
Sunday, January 15th @ 1pm
FREE

AKC Canine Good Citizen Test
Sunday, January 29 @ 1pm

Canine Game Night Workshop
Monday, January 30 @ 8:30pm
$35
Learn other ways to build a better, more positive relationship with your dog, while having FUN at the same time!

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Is Your Dog an Angel?

January 9th, 2012 by 2hounds


Is your dog an angel?





(we know YOU think so!) Or could you use a few training tips? Maybe you have a counter surfer on your hands, or need just a few brush up tips on walking on a loose leash?

January is National Train Your Dog Month, and NOVADog Magazine is here to help.





Each year, hundreds of thousands of pets are turned into animal shelters because their owners couldn’t find a reliable resource to help them with their pets’ behavior problems. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers has designated the month of January as National Train Your Dog Month to bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training for all pets. January was selected as the perfect month because so many animals are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays.

NOVADog Magazine hopes to help families and their pets start the New Year off right with information on the behavior needs and training of their pets. Our local partners and dog training experts will share tips in a series of NOVADog Blog postings during the month of January.

Stay tuned for Blog post number one, blasting this week.

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Holiday Helper: Finding Good Pet Care NOW!

December 16th, 2011 by 2hounds


Are you hopping a plane, a train, going by automobile? If you are leaving town for the holidays and still need to arrange professional care for your pets, we are here to help!

Here’s a listing of all of our partners who still have openings for holiday pet care! Please visit their individual web sites and call or e-mail to find out more information. Don’t wait! The holidays are almost here!

Make sure to read the NOVADog article on holiday pet care for great tips and information from these and other partners! CLICK HERE TO GIVE IT A READ!

All Friends Pet Care (www.allfriendspetcare.com) has holiday pet sitting available in the Reston, Herndon, Sterling, Alexandria, Springfield, and Lorton areas.

Always There Pet Care (www.alwaystherepetcare.com) has holiday pet sitting available in Falls Church, and North Arlington.

Belly Rubs Pet Care (www.bellyrubspetcare.com) has holiday pet sitters available in Arlington, Sterling and Ashburn.

Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates (www.blueridgevets.com) has a large boarding kennel and can still take reservations for cats, dogs and all exotics. Full vaccines are required!   Staffed 24/7/365.   Contact MISTY, Kennel Manager for rates and details.

Dogtopia Locations (www.dogdaycare.com) in Woodbridge, Manassas, White Flint, & Herndon have holiday boarding spaces left. All dogs need to be evaluated prior to attending and up to date with shots. Schedule an evaluation by calling the location.

K9 Nirvana (www.k9nirvana.com) has ample availability for vacation visits in all service areas including: Fair Lakes, Centreville, Clifton & Burke, and limited availability for overnight stays.

Karing by Kristina (www.karingbykristina.com) has some availability in Alexandria and Arlington for holiday pet sitting. Plus they are able to host overnight stays in their Bed and Barkfast…only 3 spaces available though!

Passionately Pets (www.passionatelypets.com) can accommodate anytime visits (cats, etc) in the Lincolnia, Landmark, Cameron Station, Old Town, Fairlington, Annandale & Arlington areas, but has limited availability for visits that require a certain time frame (dogs). They are booked with overnights.

The Backyard Pack (www.thebackyardpack.com) in Lorton area has holiday boarding availability for new clients (5 spaces).

The Dog Eaze Inn (www.dogeazeinn.com) in Woodbridge is wait list only for Christmas boarding, but has boarding openings for New Year’s eve weekend.

The Next Best Thing Pet Care (www.thenextbestthingpetcare.com) still has a couple of spots open for holiday pet sitting in Fairfax City, Oakton, Fairfax Station, and Fair Lakes.

And please tell them that NOVADog sent you so they’ll take extra special care of you. Happy Howl-idays!

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