Happy Halloween.....

Pets Allowed.. Tips for both tenants and landlords

For many with pets, renting an apartment is more difficult than it should be. It can depend on the market at a given time in a given locale, landlord's past experiences, and the ability of prospective renters to represent themselves and their pets as responsible tenants.

There are benefits to renting to people with animals. Studies show that renters with pets are more likely to stay in pet-friendly apartments for longer periods of time. Being open to tenants with pets widens the poll of potential people to rent the property. Responsible tenants with pets will also likely have a higher level of commitment to the property, the community and the neighborhood. Landlords seeking responsible renters can find that responsible tenants with pets can make great long term residents.

People who have pets and are seeking an apartment can make this process easier by allowing enough time for the search and having documentation about pets, including veterinary records, behavior classes, and any other information to demonstrate responsible pet guardianship. Some people will have letters of recommendation from past landlords available (with phone numbers) and offer to pay the full legally allowed security deposit for damage. Offering to introduce your animals(s) to a prospective landlord can be helpful. some people also have had success working with Realtors who advertise as pet friendly and looking in sections of a city that are know to be welcoming to pets. When you do land a rental be sure to live up to the standard as a highly responsible tenant.

The Massachusetts Animal Coalition (MAC) has more information for both landlords and renters at massanimalcoalition.org (click on Resources). This includes model guidelines and agreements, checklists and other valuable tools.

Be Well!! 10 Tips To Keep Your Pet Happy...

We love our pet. so of course, e want to give them everything they need to live long and happy lives. The following is a list to keep your pet in tiptop shape.

1. Spay or Neuter: These procedures may help prevent breast cancer and uterine infections in female cats and dogs as well as decrease the chances for prostate disease and hernia in Male cats and dogs.

2. Vaccinate: This is important for all pets and yes, that means indoor cats, too!!

3. Vet Visits: Even if your pet is healthy, it is a good idea to bring them in for regular checkups. Preventative care is the best line of defense against the onset of serious diseases.

4. Exercise, Exercise!!! Wheter you have baby pets, adult pets or senior pets, keep your animals moving. Exercise stimulates blood flow and helps keep muscles and joints flexible and strong.

5. Fee Your Dog Dog Food And Feed Your Cat Cat Food!! There is a good reason why pet food companies create recipes targeted specifically for canines and felines. They have different needs and dietary considerations, and could become very ill by eating the wrong food.

6. Add supplements: They often help with specific issues such as joint and muscle pain, as well as promote general health.

7. Microchip: In case your pet gets lost, microchipping will help identify your pet quickly so he/she may be returned to you in a timely fashion.

8. Beware The Elements: Here is a good rule of thumb. If it is too cold or hot for you it is too cold or hot for your pets. Make sure you keep your home at a comfortable temperature and limit all outside activities to a minimum in extreme weather conditions.

9. Especially For The Month Of October!! No Candy!! Halloween usually means extra sweet treats in the home. They may be tasty for humans, but they are dangerous for pets.

10. Shower Your Pet With Love: A happy affectionate, well adjusted pet makes for a healthy pet.

Flu That Effects Dogs....

There is a new flu around that only affects dogs.

Talk to your vet to find out if your dog should be vaccinated.

If you have ever had the flu, you know how bad it can make you feel.

And it is no different for dogs.

Over the past several years, dogs in 30 States have been sickened by a new year round dog flu that continues to spread.

It is highly contagious , and virtually every dog is vulnerable to infection.

Fortunately, there is a new canine influenza vaccine available to help protect those loved ones who cannot speak for themselves.

To learn more visit - doginfluenza.com

Blessing Of The Animals...

Sunday, October 3 @ 10 am
Blessing Of The Animals

In honor of the feast of St.Francis, all animals and creation will be celebrated and blessed this Sunday. Please bring your pets, restrained as if going to the vet. In prior years such exotic pets as ferrets, geckos and a snake have attended, in addition to a menagerie of cats and dogs. Pictures and stuffed animals may also be presented. Holy Communion will also be celebrated at this service.

Christ Episcopal Church
66 Fellsway West, Somerville
(Facing Foss Park, between Broadway & Mystic Ave.)

For more information: 617-628-4519, The Rev. Christopher Fike, Priest.

Christ Church is an open and inclusive congregation affirming all people.
Families and individuals are warmly welcomed and invited to participate in the life and work of our parish: growing in knowledge of God's love for us and sharing it with others in our daily lives.

Hit The Web Before You Hit The Road...

Summer is over, but travel season isn't.

Whether your next trip is a dog show, an off-season vacation or home for the
holidays, use GoPetFriendly.com to find the most dog-friendly accommodations along the way.

The proud sponsor and official pet travel website of Meet the Breeds, GoPetFriendly.com was founded by Amy and Rod Burkert, who created the site using their experience traveling with their dogs, Buster and Ty.

The free service provides users with pet friendly hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, beaches, wineries and dog-parks throughout the United States and Canada.

One particularly handy feature on the site is the Toad Trip Planner.

By inputting your starting and ending locations and estimating how many miles you will travel each day.

GoPetFriendly.com provides driving destinations and suggest hotels or campgrounds along the route.

Bon Voyage!!

Time To Unwind, Fall is Here

You know when fall is coming when the air is crisp and the leaves fall off the trees.

What I hate most is that it gets dark at 7 pm and my mum cannot take outto look at the garden. Whay you say too dark and the so many bugs.

So glad she brought my chair in so I can get warm and watch her work on the computer.

We have a mini sale going on at the store so stop on by and check it out, along with new items coming in for the season , plus holiday giftware for kitties like myself.