A floating yorkie!? Pet sitting stories with Doug the Dog Guy
You’ve heard plenty of funny pet stories - but this one might just take the cake! Savanna recently caught up with Dough the Dog Guy...
Our Blog
St. Paw-trick’s Day Special: Green Foods Your Pet Can Eat!
St. Patrick’s Day is a time for all things green—shamrocks, decorations, and maybe even a themed meal! While we humans indulge in green beer and...
Rehoming a Pet: A Responsible and Compassionate Guide
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, we find ourselves in a situation where rehoming a beloved pet is the best choice...
All About the Rat: Beginner Scent Work with Kathy Marble-Brown
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, far superior to humans. Scent work is a fantastic way to tap into their natural abilities, providing mental...
What Pet Parents Need to Know About Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
As a loving pet parent, your furry friends are part of your family, so it’s natural to be concerned when health warnings like the bird...
Why and How You Should Deep Clean Your Automatic Litter Box (Yes, Even Yours!)
So, you finally got an automatic litter box. You’re living the dream, free from daily scooping duty, and your cat probably thinks they’ve got the...
Can Dogs Get Seasonal Depression? Yes: Here’s How to Care for Them
The colder months and shorter days can cause mood shifts in your furry friend, affecting their overall well-being. Understanding how these changes impact your pet’s...
Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches in Central Florida
As the fall season kicks off, there's nothing better than enjoying cooler temperatures and festive pumpkin patches with your furry companion by your side.
Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Central Florida
Living in Central Florida has its perks—plenty of sunshine, beautiful landscapes, and, of course, easy access to some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the...
Pros and Cons of Different Dog Training Methods: Board and Train Facilities, In-Home Training, and Group Training
Training your dog is a vital part of ensuring they are well-behaved, happy, and safe. However, deciding on the best training method can be challenging....
The Pros and Cons of Dog Doors: Is It Right for Your Home?
Dog doors can be a fantastic addition to your home, offering convenience and freedom for both you and your furry friend. However, they also come...
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Dog Walker for Afternoon Walks
As pet owners, ensuring the well-being of our furry friends is a top priority. One way to provide excellent care, even when you're busy at...
Transitioning to Assisted Living or Memory Care: A Guide for Pet Owners
Transitioning to assisted living or memory care is a significant life change, especially for elderly parents who have cherished pets. Pets provide companionship, reduce stress,...
Reflecting on 9 Years of Paw-some Adventures: Lessons Learned from a Decade in Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
As we eagerly approach a decade in the pet care industry, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey that brought us here. From wagging...
Beat the Heat: Recognizing Signs of Heat Stroke in Pets and How to Respond
As the sun shines brighter and temperatures soar, it's essential to pay extra attention to our furry companions. Florida's scorching heat can pose serious risks...
How I Kept My Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Business Running While Traveling in Scotland
As the owner of a pet sitting and dog walking company, I often find myself tethered to my responsibilities and the needs of my clients....
Raw Foods Every Dog Owner Should Consider Giving Their Pet
Raw dog food has been a hot topic for many years now, and while everyone has their own opinion, there’s no doubt that a balanced...
Impacting the Pet Industry with the Florida Pet Services Association
Heidi Lewis-Pracko and Savanna Westwood, from the Florida Pet Services Association (FPSA), discuss the organization's mission to connect and support pet service businesses in Florida...
Common Poisonous Outdoor Plants in Florida
Playful pets enjoy the outdoors just as much as humans but be aware of these common Central Florida plants that can be poisonous to curious...
Summer Security: Keeping Your Home Safe While You Vacation
As the summer sun beckons us towards vacations and getaways, it's essential to ensure that our homes remain secure, especially when leaving furry friends behind.
Paws, Claws, and Clean Floors: A Guide to Pet-Friendly Cleaning Services
As a Pet Owner, you know firsthand the joy and companionship that animals bring into our lives. But let's face it; they can also bring...
Choosing a Boarding Facility: The Questions to Ask
Welcoming a furry friend into your life brings immense joy, but it also comes with responsibilities, including ensuring their well-being when you're away. Whether you're...
Understanding the Distinction: Dog Trainer vs. Behaviorist
As pet owners seek to provide the best care for their furry companions, they often encounter the terms "dog trainer" and "behaviorist." While these professionals...
The Savvy Sitter features on boldjourney.com
We were recently interviewed by boldjourney.com. View a copy of the article below or visit https://boldjourney.com/news/meet-savanna-westwood/.
Ensuring Furry Health: A Guide to Pet Vaccines in the Sunshine State
Living in the beautiful state of Florida comes with its perks, but it also means being aware of the unique health considerations for our beloved...
Mystery Respiratory Disease in Dogs
Many health officials and scientists have been working to untie the mystery behind the outbreak of the respiratory problem in dogs across the whole United...
Pet safe holiday tips
The holiday season is a time of laughter, joy, and festivities, but for our furry companions, there are numerous hazards during this time. From tempting...
Top tips for taking a nervous dog on holiday
Vacations are a great opportunity to relax and unwind, but for dog owners leaving their beloved pets behind, they can be a source of stress.
Nail Trimming: A Comprehensive Guide for Dogs, Cats, Birds, and Lizards
Proper nail trimming is important for your pets because it improves the overall health of your pets. When a nail grows too long it causes...
Beware of Green Threats: Dangerous House Plants for Pets
House plants are a source of fresh air and vibrant greenery in your home, but keep in mind that not all plants are safe for...
Redfin Guest Blog Post:9 Expert Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe While You’re Away for the Day
Leaving your furry companion at home while you’re away for the day can be a source of concern for many pet owners. Ensuring your dog’s...
Probiotics for Pets: Unveiling the Benefits of Gut Health
Probiotics are getting popular in the last few years and they have a lot of benefits for humans and animals. But did you know what...
Walking Your Dog at Night: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Experience
Taking your pet for a walk is an important part of their mental and physical well-being. Most pet owners take their dogs out for walks...
Is Raw Diet Good For Cats?
Raw diets for cats have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many pet owners turning to this type of diet as a way to...
When Your Pet Starts To Eat Poop?
There are many alarming things that your pet can do in their daily life, and one of them is eating poop. This behavior in pets...
7 Things People Do That Dogs Don’t Like
If you know about the likes and dislikes of your dog your dog's life becomes more peaceful.
Pride and Passion with Savanna
Podcast: How do you know when you’re overcommitted? Your commitment is a promise to others to render service or provide them something.
Getting and Staying Organized with Savanna
Podcast: Now is an excellent time to work on getting and staying organized.
Canine Nutrition: Understanding Your Dog’s Dietary Needs
Canine nutrition is a crucial aspect of a dog's overall health and wellbeing. Just like humans, dogs need a balanced and nutritious diet to thrive....
Enrich Your Cat’s Inner Hunter
Cat domestication is vastly different than dog domestication. Dogs and other animals like horses and sheep were bred and trained to help serve the working...
How Much To Feed My Dog
Dogs are known for being avid eaters, so it's important to provide them with the right amount of food each day. There is no one-size-fits-all...
Pet-Friendly Vehicle Detailing
Owning a pet can bring immense joy and companionship to your life, but it can also pose some challenges, particularly when it comes to keeping...
What Games Are Best for Your Dog?
Every dog breed was made for a purpose. Some hunted. Others herded sheep. The list of examples could go on. Nowadays, most dogs don’t work....
10 Popular High-Energy Dog Breeds
If you’re an active individual who loves the outdoors and is looking for a canine companion who will keep up with you on your adventures,...
Pets and Pests
Probably one of the number one questions that I am asked every day is “is this treatment safe for my pets and our children?“ And...
How to Respond to an Attack on Your Pet
Learn how to safely break up a pet fight and what to do if your pet is attacked.
7 Amazing Facts You Should Know About Toy Poodles
Here are seven fascinating details about toy poodles you need to know. You'll be astounded by what you learn about toy poodles.
Can Dogs Eat Chocolates?
Chocolate, that delicious sweet that melts in your mouth and not in your hand, also happens to be a favorite of humans and our canine...
How to Keep Your Pet’s Mouth Healthy
Your pet’s oral health matters. That’s why the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) created National Pet Dental Health Month.
Top Quiet Activities for Pets After Surgery
Think it will be impossible to keep your pet calm and entertained after surgery? Think again. We are going to share some ideas for keeping...
Why You Need to Choose Fear Free Professionals
Going to the vet is often stressful for pets. And it’s pretty easy to understand why. After all, there are a bunch of strange smells,...
Dangers of Retractable Leashes
Retractable leashes are a great idea. They give us the ability to enjoy our walks with dogs and still keep a safe distance from them....
What Toys Can I Leave In My Puppy’s Crate?
Every dog owner knows the importance of having a crate, especially when you want to leave the house and keep your dog in it at...
Pets and Wills
Many of us who have pets consider them to be an extension of our family. In many cases, our pets are our best friends, our...
Pets Urinating In the Home Causes and Treatment
It is very upsetting to get home and find that your pet has urinated on your carpet. It is frustrating. First of all, you have...
Great Central Florida Locations for Dog Photos by A Style Photography
Here are some of Amanda's favorite dog-friendly photo spots in Central Florida
Best Tips for Getting Your Picky Cat to Eat
Cats are great furry friends with many fantastic qualities. But they can also be picky, especially when it comes to food.
What Is Causing Your Dog to Dig and How to Stop It
Does your dog like to dig? That’s no surprise. After all, digging is an instinctual behavior that was passed down from wolves.
Ways Children Can Benefit From A Family Dog
A lot goes into raising a family. From instilling morals and emotional intelligence to ensuring their children appreciate the advantages of an active lifestyle, parents...
Raising Large vs Small Dog Breeds
Choosing a dog to fit your lifestyle requires a thorough look at various factors. From physical activity levels to financial commitments, there are many considerations.
Back to School: Preparing Pets
Just like kids, pets need time to adjust when the school year starts back up again. Pets are creatures of habit, so a change in...
Ways Canine Companionship Can Boost Your Health
Arriving home from work to see the happy face and wagging tail of your furry best friend can immediately turn around a bad day. While...
How to Remove Pet Hair From Furniture?
Pet hair is a big problem in many households, especially in people who have both dogs and cats at home. This can be made a...
Pet Cancer Diagnosis
As a pet owner, you try to give your animal companion the best possible care. That means taking your furry friend for walks, regularly monitoring...
How to Rescue Pets from a Hot Car
When the weather warms up, leaving your pet in the car becomes a huge risk. But not all pet parents realize this. So, what should...
5 Tips for National Take Your Dog to Work Day 2022
Take Your Pet To Work Week is June 20-24 this year, so it’s time to start planning! Whether your company will be celebrating Take Your...
How to Create a First-Aid Kit for Your Dog by Figo
Do you have a first-aid kit for your pet? If not, you're far from alone. According to the Northern Kentucky Tribune, only 10% of pet...
How to Solve Your Cat’s Litter Box Problems
Litter box issues are common issues among cats. Learn how you can help solve your cat's litter box issues.
How to Keep Pets Safe on Easter + Giving Pets as Easter Gifts
Easter is on the way. That means it’s time to think about two important topics: How to keep your pet safe on Easter and Should...
Beta Fish Care 101
ith its strikingly beautiful appearance, the betta fish has become a popular aquarium pet. But not everyone is ready to provide the care it needs. If...
How To Prepare and Provide Post-Op Care For Your Pet
If your pet is having surgery, you'll want to ensure you're prepared for surgery and post-operation care. Read more to learn how.
How To Care For Rabbits, Hamsters, and Guinea Pigs
Not ready to commit to a dog or cat? That’s okay. There are plenty of small pets that can give you just as much joy....
How To Choose Games For Dogs
Games For Dogs By Breed Every dog breed was made for a purpose. Some hunted. Others herded sheep. The list of examples could go on. ...
How To Tell If Your Kid Is Ready For A Pet
Are Your Kids Ready For A Pet? So, your kids want a pet. What should you do? Give in or not? Getting a new furry family...
Pet Dental Care Best Practices
How to Keep Your Pet’s Mouth Healthy Your pet’s oral health matters. That’s why the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) created National Pet Dental Health...
How To Find A Dog Trainer and Questions to Ask
Finding a new dog trainer can be stressful. Learn how you can make the process easier for you and your dog.
House Showing and Your Pet
With so many families owning animals, it might be hard to imagine anyone disliking yours. But at the end of the day, you want to...
When Should You Schedule a Pet Sitter or Dog Walker for Service?
As a Professional Pet Sitter one of the questions, I get asked a lot is how far out do you book services or when should...
Cool Things For Dogs
Taking care of your dog is a lot easier when you have the right supplies. We've found some of the newest and coolest things for your...
Best Toys For Indoor Cats
Keeping your kitty (especially young, energetic kittens) entertained can be hard, but is an essential part of keeping your cat healthy. Looking for new toys...
Benefits of a Mobile Veterinary Visit
about the benefits of a mobile veterinary visit and talk a little about preventive care. I know everyone is accustomed to the traditional vet visit...
9 Gift Ideas For Pet Owners
A list of the best gifts to give to a pet owner or animal lover in your life.
Canine Companions: A Service Dog Training Center
Learn about service dogs and types of service dogs from the provider Canine Companions.
Pets Allergies 101
Find out how you can tell if your pet has an allergy and what you can to to help treat them.
3 Steps To Finding A Dog Groomer
Finding a dog groomer can be overwhelming. We share how to easily find a dog groomer you can feel good about.
How to Take a Perfect Photo of Your Pet
Taking pictures of your pet can be fun and can create fond memories, as well as preserve your special memories with them. Amanda Myers with...
How Pumpkins Provide Health Benefits For Pets
Pumpkins provide a variety of health benefits and nutrients for your pet. Find out why.
Why We Must Always Remember the 9/11 Dogs
September 11th, 2001 is a day none of us could ever forget. Full of tragedy and unimaginable horrors, it was a pivotal event in history. ...
How To Find The Best Vet
Choosing a vet for your pet can be stressful and tricky. Use our checklist to ensure you find the best vet for you pet.
4 Things to Know Before Applying for a Rental with Pets
Looking for a new home is a process that could become very stressful depending on the marketplace and your particular needs. To that, you add...
5 Reasons Why Your Dog is the Best Exercise Companion
Exercising has benefits for you and your dog. Make your dog your exercise companion.
Keep Your Pet Busy With a Puzzle Toy
We explain what pet puzzle toys are and how puzzle toys can benefit your pet.
How to Prepare For a Puppy: 14 Must Do’s Around the House
Bringing a puppy home is a big adjustment for you and your new dog. Find out how to prepare your home and life for a...
Your Pet and Pool Safety
Prepare yourself and your dog for summer fun with these tips on summer pool safety.
Guide To Pet Washing and Cleanliness
Pet Bathing and Washing Guidelines Keeping your pet and its bedding, bowls, and bathroom area are some of the most important but often overlooked duties...
10 Questions You Should Ask A Pet Sitter and Dog Walker
Questions you should ask your pet sitter or dog walker to ensure that you and your pet find the best fit.
Dogs as Loyal Companions Amidst the Pandemic
How Pets Are Helping Us Cope With the Pandemic Nothing compares to the joy of knowing you have a loyal companion who’ll stick with you...
How Pets Can Help Kids Improve Learning Habits
Animals Help Kids With Learning Did you know that furry friends such as dogs, cats, or rabbits can be incorporated into school, therapy, and home...
The Aromatic Elixir: The Benefits of Essential Oils for Dogs – But Beware for Cats and Other Pets
As pet owners, we always strive to provide the best care for our furry companions. In recent years, essential oils have gained popularity as a...
Best Pet-Friendly Southern Vacation Areas
Pets are new to the family and the kids won’t want to leave them home, for others, they are too integral to the family and...
How to Prepare for Losing a Pet and Grieving Process
How To Prepare For Losing A Pet No one wants to think about saying goodbye to a beloved pet. But all pet owners must face...
Reiki and Your Pet
As a pet owner, you want to provide only the best for your furbaby! With more and more CBD companies popping up it is hard...
Tipping in the Pet Service Industry
Tipping is often found in the service industry, sometimes it is expected and other times it is not, but it is always a sign of...
CBD and Your Pet
As a pet owner, you want to provide only the best for your furbaby! With more and more CBD companies popping up it is hard...
How Do You Know Your Pet Loves You?
You adore your pet and show love to your precious fur baby in many different ways. But did you know that pets can also show...
Puppy Care 101
5 Puppy Care Facts You Might Not Know There’s always something new to learn about puppy care. That’s why we are going to share some important...
Kitten Care 101
Do You Know These Kitten Care Facts? If you want to learn more about kitten care, this article is for you. It’s got some great kitten...
Do You Know How Much Pet Care Will Cost You?
Thinking about bringing a puppy or kitten home? Be sure to consider the cost of a new pet first. Animals aren’t cheap. Read this article...
Florida Wildlife & Your Pet: Coyotes
Coyotes are found throughout Florida both in the urban and agriculture areas. You probably heard stories of coyotes going after smaller pets, as well cats...
Cooking for Your Pets
November 1st is National Cook for Your Pets Day, chances are you already share some of your food with your pets or they may be...
How You Can Socialize Your Puppy During COVID-19
Are you getting ready to move or travel to another country or state? If you want to bring your pet along, how will you transport...
Top 4 Reasons Why Picking Up Pet Waste is Crucial
Are you getting ready to move or travel to another country or state? If you want to bring your pet along, how will you transport...
How to Help Your Cat Settle in Your New Home
Are you getting ready to move or travel to another country or state? If you want to bring your pet along, how will you transport...
How to Help Your Dog Settle in Your New Home
Moving to a new home isn’t easy. Especially for your dog. But you can make the adjustment period less stressful for your pooch by following...
How to Transport Your Pet to Another Country or State
Are you getting ready to move or travel to another country or state? If you want to bring your pet along, how will you transport...
Protocols for Finding a Lost Pet
Whether your pet managed to get out the front door, the yard fence was open, or whatever the reason, a runaway pet can soon become...
Preparing Your Pet for Separation Anxiety Post COVID-19
Separation Anxiety is described as when a dog is excessively attached or reliant on a member of the family or the family in general. When...
Florida Wildlife & Your Pet: Alligators & Crocodiles
There are over 1 million Alligators that live in the lakes, swamps, rivers, ponds, canals and sometimes swimming pools in the State of Florida. We...
You Should Use These 10 Tips to Go Green with Pet Care
Many of us are concerned about the environment, which has prompted a massive movement towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. Even pet owners are finding ways...
What You Need to Know About Flea Prevention and Medication
If you have a pet, you need to learn about preventing and treating fleas. In this article, we are going to look at why it’s...
Here are the Facts on Pet Insurance You Should Know
According to the American Pet Products Association, the total expense of veterinary care reached $18.11 billion in 2018. Clearly, medical care for pets is expensive....
These Exercise Ideas Can Prevent Pet Boredom and Help Your Pet Lose Weight
We all need exercise, especially after celebrating the holidays, but did you know that includes your pet?
Pet Safety During Christmas Season
Christmas is a joyous occasion, but if you aren’t careful the foods and decorations of the holiday season can be dangerous for your pet. Learn...
These Thanksgiving Foods Are Dangerous for Pets
Thanksgiving is a fun-filled holiday centered around rich foods. Unfortunately, most of these foods are not safe for your pet to eat. Keep reading to...
How to Keep Your Pet Safe on Halloween
Halloween is right around the corner. You might be excited about all the fun activities surrounding the event, but have you considered how to keep...
Fireworks and Your Pet
The Fourth of July is a wonderful time for family, friends, celebrations and fun, but it is also the day more pets are lost than...
Preparing for a Hurricane with Your Pet
Hurricane season is here, and as pet owners, we need to make sure we are prepared for hurricane season as effectively as possible! In order...
Six Tips to Keep Your Pets Cool This Summer
As the summer fast approaches, it’s time to start preparing yourself, and your pets, for ways to keep cool and happy as temperatures soar. Florida’s summers...
Music for the Pets
Ever wonder why noises make your pet anxious? Long periods of silence means that your pet may become sensitive to any noise. Here are some...
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to your questions about the Savvy Sitter's services and policies.
