Sunday, September 7, 2014

Melbourne inner north and CBD pet minding and dog walking




Please visit: 
www.facebook.com/pawfriend for the latest 2017 photos of Paw Friends pets 😊


RATES effective as of 12th March, 2017:
  • Dog Walking = $25 per hour weekdays, $35 weekends, $30 public holidays
  • Pet Feeding/Companionship = $20 per visit, $25 public holidays
  • Feed + Walk the Dog Combo = $30 per visit, $35 public holidays
  • Extra animal = $5 each
  • Pet and House sitting = $45 a night, $7+ nights = $40 a nightff  friendly, caring and reliable pet minding and dog walking service for the Brunswick area of Melbourne
Dog Walking Dogs need regular exercise to prevent destructive behaviour stemming from loneliness and boredom.  Whether you would like your dog walked regularly or just for short spells, I spend a quality hour walking and playing with your dog.  Water flask carried on walks.
This rate is for 1 dog. Additional dogs are $5 extra per walk.
Pet Feeding/Companionship*   If you need your cat or dog fed while you're away, or your treasured pet to have some company during the day, I can visit to feed and provide companionship and a play session. Rate includes refilling water bowls, changing kitty litter, lots of pats and brushing if requested. 
Maximum 2 cats or 2 dogs included in this rate.  Extra pets are $5 each per visit.

I can also feed other animals including chickens, rabbits, fish, guinea pigs and reptiles. Please enquire about the rate.

Feed + Walk the dog combo*   Whether you have a long busy day planned or are away, l can feed and exercise your pooch once or twice a day. Up to 1 hour walk, depending on size of dog.
This rate is for a household of 1 dog and 1 cat.  Additional pets are $5 extra each per visit.

House and Pet Sitting*  For when you prefer your pet to stay in the safety net of your own home with minimum disruptions (ideal for nervous, sick or elderly pets that dislike kennels and catteries). I provide a presence for pets, while keeping your property safe at the same time. Price includes walks, feeding, giving of medication (if required), and quality companionship and affection.
This rate includes up to 2 dogs.  Additional pets are $5 extra each per night.

Dog Sitting in my home   This is sometimes available. Small breeds only are accepted and they must be cat-friendly. The rate is $35 a night. Please contact me with any enquiries.

*These services include mail collection, watering of plants and bringing in/putting out of bins if required.

SUBURBS SERVICED:  Brunswick, Brunswick East, Brunswick West, Carlton, Carlton North, Clifton Hill, Collingwood, Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, CBD (includes Southbank + Docklands), North Melbourne, East Melbourne.
If you live in Bayside or a neighbouring suburb, feel free to contact me to check for availability.

Look forward to hearing from you!

Emma Smith of Paw Friends
Putting Paws First

Email: emmasmith@live.com.au
Phone: 0413922102
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pawfriend

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Dog Lovers Show Wrap



Rainy Melbourne weather didn’t deter a large turnout to the annual Dog Lovers Show at the Exhibition Building in Carlton over the weekend.  Lucky double pass winners from the Paw Friends Facebook page among them.  The point of difference from most Melbourne ‘show events’, where the focus seems to be sales above everything?  The presence of our four legged friends! They added a literal soft touch to the event. 

The Show’s emphasis seemed less about selling and more about dog appreciation and celebration. Interspersed between stalls spruiking doggy foods, coats, toys, and pet photography deals, pooches surprised and delighted.  Large malamutes, tiny Chihuahuas, bull terriers, pugs and others from breed-specific rehoming groups were available to learn about and pat.  While upstairs, dog breed clubs proudly showed off staffies, golden retrievers, French bulldogs, poodles etc.  I discovered the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, two-thirds the size of a golden retriever and absolutely gorgeous.

Two stages hosted information sessions about managing dog health and behaviour, while entertainment rocked the main arena.  TV vet Dr Katrina Warren showcased the talents of the Wonder Dogs, a group of border collies. While Farmer Dave, of Big Brother fame, compered the main arena action, entertaining the crowd with witty commentary as dogs participated in agility, races, obedience and fun tricks. He told of how he grew up on a farm, the youngest of 11 kids, with the job of feeding all the farm dogs.  Thus began his love affair.  He lives on the farm still, just a mere 30 minute drive to his parents’ home - on the same property!

The focus on the hope rehabilitation offers rescue dogs, and the presence of older dogs, was well thought out and effective.  Pablo, a small dog that has been rehomed four times due to aggressive behaviour, won all the races in the small dog K9 x-country event and displayed excellent manners. Finally some wins for the little guy!  Another dog who originated from a puppy farm -and who had to learn to stand when rehomed due to the cramped conditions there - performed tricks on stage with finesse.  And an 8 year old dog completed the agility course, proving it’s a fun activity for any dog, regardless of age.  They all received great applause.

The Dog Lovers Show is for dog owners, prospective owners and also dog lovers in general.  Even if you don’t or can’t own a dog, but love dogs, this show is for you.  So head along next year!