This September, it’s Pet Sitter Education Month, so we thought we’d share our knowledge and tips on how to choose the very best babysitter for your loved ones. Whether going on a vacation, visiting a sick relative, or going away for work, sometimes, our sweet furkiddos are not able to come along. It’s in those cases where we find ourselves worrying about who will take care of your pet, and regardless of if it’s for a day or a month, the decision is an important one. This can be incredibly challenging and worrisome since our pets can’t communicate about how their stay was, so asking the right questions and doing your research are great first steps.
To make life a little bit easier for you, we’ve comprised a list of the various options, with their pros and cons, and tips of what to look for.
Someone You Know
The best-case scenario is always finding someone you and your pet know. You’ll already know that your pet likes them, feels comfortable around them, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your friend, family, or neighbor is a responsible person. If your friend hasn’t met your pet, we suggest bringing them over for a “meeting” to see how the two of them interact, to see if they get along well.
Depending on your pet, having someone you know house-sit as well would allow for your pet to feel more comfortable since they’ll still be in their space. If your pet is older, this can be especially beneficial since having to get used to a new place, climbing stairs, or not having access to a backyard might cause them anxiety or an accident.
Having a cheat sheet can be very useful. When you hand over the leash, you can quickly go over any medications, routines, food requirements, and any other special instructions that you think they’ll need to know. If they don’t have a pet, don’t assume that they know how to care for one. Giving them the number to your veterinarian in case of emergency may also come in handy.
Another perk, it’s free! Although a little thank you gift like homemade cookies or a small token of your appreciation is always welcome.
In-Home Pet Sitting
Did you know there are professional pet sitters?
Did you know there are professional pet sitters? If none of your friends or family are available, this is your next best choice. The great thing about professional pet sitters is their knowledge of pets (i.e first aid training) and their dependability. Something may come up in your friend’s life, and they may need to cancel. With a professional service, you will know that you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’ll show up.
There are many variations of pet sitters. Some can come to stay in your home, or some can stop by a few times a day to walk, feed, water, let out, or change the litter box. Prices vary, but you should expect to pay anywhere from $25-75/day for this service.
1. When choosing a professional pet-sitter, you should do your research and ask them these questions. 2. Do you belong to a professional organization like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Professional United Pet Sitters? 3. Do you have a business license? 4. Do you know pet first aid? 5. Will they come to meet the pet before hiring them? 6. Do they have any references? 7. What is their cancellation policy?
All of these questions will help give you an idea of their qualifications and will give you more peace of mind while you are away.
Boarding Kennel
When and if you have to go to a boarding kennel, there are many things to consider. First of all, if your dog is anxious, old, doesn’t get along with other dogs or humans, then a boarding kennel is probably not the best option, and can cause mental anguish on your pet. You’re also potentially exposing your pet to the other pet’s illnesses. Some kennels only take the dogs for walks for an additional fee and don’t let them outside at all. Some will even administer medication if your dog is misbehaving or won’t settle down. Asking the right questions when deciding on a kennel, visiting it, and asking to see where they’ll be sleeping is a great way to gauge what the kennel is like.
Some things to consider or ask when visiting the kennel:
Is the kennel clean?
Are there windows and access to the outdoors?
Is the temperature comfortable?
Is the staff caring and well-trained?
Are the other pets that are boarded there required to have all their vaccinations?
Will your pet have their own space to sleep and be outdoors?
Pro Tip: Ask around. Your veterinarian, friends, and family, or frequenters at your dog park might be able to recommend a reputable one. When making the decision, trust your gut. If you don’t feel good leaving your loved one there for an extended period of time, then make other arrangements.
Luxury Pet Hotels
Although it can be considered a boarding kennel, these luxury pet hotels deserve their own section. From Loft Suites featuring gel comfort beds to Luxury Suites with full-size beds with duvet, pillows, a flat-screen TV, windows, private lounge areas, and a 24-7 webcam, there are options for many budgets. Some of these hotels/resorts even offer spas with bubble baths, blow-dries, and daily brushing. Some of these resorts range from $39-$110/night.
Supplements That Can Help
If your pet suffers from anxiety and separation anxiety, or if you’re unsure of how they’ll react to you leaving them, there are a few supplements that can be started a few weeks prior to you leaving and continued while you’re away to help with this. Matricalm is one of our supplements that should be taken for relaxing nervousness and aggressive behavior. Lesstress, on the other hand, helps reduce hyperactivity, calms agitation, helps reduce anxiety caused by separation, improves their disposition, and reduces destructive behavior.Matricalm is great for both cats or dogs, while we find Lesstress is more beneficial for dogs over cats. Both of these supplements are a great way to help get ahead of issues that may occur while you’re away.
When it comes to any of these options, it’s important to do your due diligence. Check reviews thoroughly, ask your pet community, family, and friends for their recommendations, and check out the place if possible.
Everyone knows what stress feels like, and we all know that too much stress can make us ill—high blood pressure, ulcers and even cancer can result from excessive stress. Like us, dogs can get stressed by numerous factors as well. Help your furkiddo relax into a long and happy life with NHV Lesstress - a natural dog stress support.
Beneficial for stress, anxiety and other nervous system issues
May be used for both situational stress and chronic stress
May reduce hyperactivity and destructive behavior
Supports healthy immune function
Everyone knows what stress feels like, and we all know that too much stress can make us ill—high blood pressure, ulcers and even cancer can result from excessive stress. Like us, dogs can get stressed by numerous factors as well. Help your furkiddo relax into a long and happy life with NHV Lesstress - a natural dog stress support.
Beneficial for stress, anxiety and other nervous system issues
May be used for both situational stress and chronic stress
With a heightened sense of hearing and smell, small events that seem mundane to us can be terrifying and stressful for your dogs. Sometimes the stress is from the ride to the office, or maybe they are missing their human companions. This all contributes to changes in behavior like excessive panting, drooling, sweaty paws, dilated eyes, pacing, excessively shedding, or just completely shutting down. Some dogs become so stressed that it may lead to fear and aggression.
Other forms of stress in a dog’s life include:
Working dogs that are pushed too hard
Flying on a plane
Special events (eg. fireworks)
Staying in a shelter
The loss of an owner
The loss or addition of a furry playmate
Going to a new home
Moving
In addition to panting, excessive barking/whining, chewing on themselves, shivering (when it’s not cold), panicked tail wagging, or tense muscles, stress can also cause GI tract issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The key to a healthy pup is balance. Too much or too little activity can be harmful, as well as too much or too little socialization. A balanced, clean diet also helps maintain the body and the mind. If your dog is susceptible to stress, you can use calming herbs like those found in NHV Lesstress. This formulation gently acts on the nervous system and immune system to provide a natural dog stress reliever.
How NHV’s Natural Dog Stress Relief Eases Stress and Anxiety
For stressful experiences such as separation anxiety, the loss or addition of a furry friend, special events (eg. fireworks) and illness (stress can cause conditions to worsen), the natural (non-addictive) sedative properties of Lesstress gently relax the nervous system and endocrine system. Ingredients like Chamomile, Passion Flower and Lemon Balm work to calm nerves while ingredients like Reishi, Eleuthero, and Echinacea Angustifolia are very beneficial for helping the body adapt to stress and illness and stimulate healthy immune function.
Help Support Your Dog Naturally
All NHV supplements like Lesstress are 100% natural and created by a holistic veterinarian and a master herbalist, specially formulated for pets. Feel free to contact our veterinary professionals to get more insight into your little one’s health and wellbeing.
item number
PH1050d
weight
0.7
volume
3.4 fl. oz. (100ml)
form
liquid
life stages
adult, senior, puppy
made in
canada
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Lesstress for Dogs
Chamomile—Known to be a general-purpose calming herb for its antispasmodic and sedative qualities; may be especially helpful for calming digestive issues triggered by nervousness and hyperexcitability
Echinacea Angustifolia—Beneficial for its immunostimulatory properties (derived from polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid, essential oils, alkylamides and polyacetylenes)
Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)—Well known for its ability to help the body deal with and adapt to stressful situations; may increase energy levels
Lemon Balm—Has been used since the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety; beneficial support for nervous disorders, excitability and anxiety
Passion Flower—Contains alkaloids and flavonoids which are natural non-addictive sedatives; anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic properties are also beneficial for relieving general discomfort
Reishi—Beneficial for helping the body deal with and adapt to stress eg. managing high blood pressure (that may be brought on by stress and anxiety); known to be a smooth muscle relaxant and may help restore immune health
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and places the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favourite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Lesstress in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
With a heightened sense of hearing and smell, small events that seem mundane to us can be terrifying and stressful for your dogs. Sometimes the stress is from the ride to the office, or maybe they are missing their human companions. This all contributes to changes in behavior like excessive panting, drooling, sweaty paws, dilated eyes, pacing, excessively shedding, or just completely shutting down. Some dogs become so stressed that it may lead to fear and aggression.
Other forms of stress in a dog’s life include:
Working dogs that are pushed too hard
Flying on a plane
Special events (eg. fireworks)
Staying in a shelter
The loss of an owner
The loss or addition of a furry playmate
Going to a new home
Moving
In addition to panting, excessive barking/whining, chewing on themselves, shivering (when it’s not cold), panicked tail wagging, or tense muscles, stress can also cause GI tract issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The key to a healthy pup is balance. Too much or too little activity can be harmful, as well as too much or too little socialization. A balanced, clean diet also helps maintain the body and the mind. If your dog is susceptible to stress, you can use calming herbs like those found in NHV Lesstress. This formulation gently acts on the nervous system and immune system to provide a natural dog stress reliever.
How NHV’s Natural Dog Stress Relief Eases Stress and Anxiety
For stressful experiences such as separation anxiety, the loss or addition of a furry friend, special events (eg. fireworks) and illness (stress can cause conditions to worsen), the natural (non-addictive) sedative properties of Lesstress gently relax the nervous system and endocrine system. Ingredients like Chamomile, Passion Flower and Lemon Balm work to calm nerves while ingredients like Reishi, Eleuthero, and Echinacea Angustifolia are very beneficial for helping the body adapt to stress and illness and stimulate healthy immune function.
Help Support Your Dog Naturally
All NHV supplements like Lesstress are 100% natural and created by a holistic veterinarian and a master herbalist, specially formulated for pets. Feel free to contact our veterinary professionals to get more insight into your little one’s health and wellbeing.
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Lesstress for Dogs
Chamomile—Known to be a general-purpose calming herb for its antispasmodic and sedative qualities; may be especially helpful for calming digestive issues triggered by nervousness and hyperexcitability
Echinacea Angustifolia—Beneficial for its immunostimulatory properties (derived from polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid, essential oils, alkylamides and polyacetylenes)
Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)—Well known for its ability to help the body deal with and adapt to stressful situations; may increase energy levels
Lemon Balm—Has been used since the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety; beneficial support for nervous disorders, excitability and anxiety
Passion Flower—Contains alkaloids and flavonoids which are natural non-addictive sedatives; anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic properties are also beneficial for relieving general discomfort
Reishi—Beneficial for helping the body deal with and adapt to stress eg. managing high blood pressure (that may be brought on by stress and anxiety); known to be a smooth muscle relaxant and may help restore immune health
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and places the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favourite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Lesstress in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Birds can be prone to stress and anxiety, which can lead to other health conditions such as feather plucking. Help to reduce stress and anxiety in your bird with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet.
item number
PH1100b
weight
0.7
volume
3.4 fl. oz. (100ml)
form
liquid;life stages=all"
made in
canada
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety.
Valerian – Stops heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system.
Hops – Eases tension and anxiety in pets.
For birds: 1 drop per two pounds twice a day
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and place the drops into your bird's favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the bird’s mouth.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Matricalm in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Birds can be prone to stress and anxiety, which can lead to other health conditions such as feather plucking. Help to reduce stress and anxiety in your bird with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet.
How to Administer Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provide and place the drops into your bird's favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the bird’s mouth.
For Best Results Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and wellbeing of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications Do not use Matricalm in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve, or deteriorates after continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.
Help reduce aggressive behavior and provide anxiety and stress relief for your cat with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet. Cats can become anxious or aggressive when exposed to other animals or to people they are unfamiliar with. When this occurs they may hiss, scratch, howl, or urinate inappropriately.
It’s important to remember that a significant cause of illness in pets results from stress. Helping to keep your cat stress free can help keep them healthier for longer. NHV Pet Experts also often recommend Matricalm for cats dealing with FIV, cancer, kidney issues, hyperthyroidism, and more.
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties. Chamomile also helps the immune system and has a strong affinity for the nervous system.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative. It helps increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps cause a feeling of relaxation. Passion Flower also has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety. In addition, lemon balm helps lower blood pressure.
Valerian – Helps stop heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system. Valerian also helps improve sleep latency and sleep quality.
Hops – Tension, anxiety, and stress relief in cats. Hops have traditionally been used to help with mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety.
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky. If this occurs, consider hiding the drops in foods most pets love, such as fish, chicken, yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food, then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently. Therefore, it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect; however, this interval will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives, or coloring. Shelf life after opening is six months, and it must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use Matricalm for cats as stress relief in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve or deteriorates after the continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Help reduce aggressive behavior and provide anxiety and stress relief for your cat with Matricalm, a natural herbal product designed to help reduce excitability in your pet. Cats can become anxious or aggressive when exposed to other animals or to people they are unfamiliar with. When this occurs they may hiss, scratch, howl, or urinate inappropriately.
It’s important to remember that a significant cause of illness in pets results from stress. Helping to keep your cat stress free can help keep them healthier for longer. NHV Pet Experts also often recommend Matricalm for cats dealing with FIV, cancer, kidney issues, hyperthyroidism, and more.
Chamomile – Contains sedative properties. Chamomile also helps the immune system and has a strong affinity for the nervous system.
Passion Flower – An effective, non-addictive sedative. It helps increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps cause a feeling of relaxation. Passion Flower also has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Lemon Balm – An aromatic herb used for nervous disorders, excitability, and anxiety. In addition, lemon balm helps lower blood pressure.
Valerian – Helps stop heart palpitations, relaxes spasms, relieves pain, and regulates the nervous system. Valerian also helps improve sleep latency and sleep quality.
Hops – Tension, anxiety, and stress relief in cats. Hops have traditionally been used to help with mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety.
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth.
Some pets can be finicky. If this occurs, consider hiding the drops in foods most pets love, such as fish, chicken, yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food, then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently. Therefore, it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect; however, this interval will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives, or coloring. Shelf life after opening is six months, and it must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use Matricalm for cats as stress relief in pregnant or nursing animals. Speak to your vet before using our products. A second visit is recommended if your pet’s condition does not improve or deteriorates after the continued use of the supplements.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.