Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Prancing Poodle Pet Care & Dog Walking Services ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Your Home Is Wonderful. It’s Also Full of Things That Could Hurt Your Pet This Spring](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/your-home-is-wonderful-its-also-full-of-things-that-could-hurt-your-pet-this-spring/): A practical guide to National Pet Poison Prevention Month — and why March is the right time to pay attention. - [Love Them Well: 7 Everyday Habits That Quietly Add Years to Your Pet’s Life](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/love-them-well-7-everyday-habits-that-quietly-add-years-to-your-pets-life/): Loving our pets is the easy part. We kiss their noses, share the couch, take too many photos, and celebrate their birthdays as if they personally requested the cake. - [Why Doesn’t My Dog Act Like a Normal Dog?](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/why-doesnt-my-dog-act-like-a-normal-dog/): Here’s the truth that’s both comforting and inconvenient: there is no such thing as a normal dog. - [Making the Right Choices for Pet Care](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/making-the-right-choices-for-pet-care/): In today’s fast-moving world, we all crave peace of mind, especially when it comes to those we love most. For many of us, that includes our pets. At Prancing Poodle Pet Care & Dog Walking Services, we don’t just care for pets, we also care for you and your peace of mind. Our clients know the freedom and joy that come from having a reliable, loving, and highly professional team standing by to support them and their animals every single day. - [Why Reliable Pet Care Is a Secret Weapon for Busy Professionals](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/why-reliable-pet-care-is-a-secret-weapon-for-busy-professionals/): In today’s fast-paced world, success often demands long hours, relentless focus, and the ability to manage both personal and professional responsibilities with precision. For busy professionals, every detail matters, from the timing of meetings to the care of the family pet. And while it might not make the front page of the Wall Street Journal, reliable pet care is one of the smartest "secret weapons" a high-achiever can have. - [Feeding for Health: Why Your Pet’s Diet Deserves a Closer Look](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/feeding-for-health-why-your-pets-diet-deserves-a-closer-look/): In today’s world of glossy packaging and emotionally charged marketing, it’s easy to assume that what’s on the shelf is what’s best for our pets. But the truth is, many commercially marketed pet foods are designed to appeal more to the human buyer than to meet the real, biological needs of the animals we love. - [4 Simple Ways to Bond with Your Dog This Winter](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/4-simple-ways-to-bond-with-your-dog-this-winter/): Winter may bring chilly temperatures and shorter days, but it also offers unique opportunities to strengthen your bond with your dog. While summer is full of beach walks and park adventures, winter can be just as rewarding with a little creativity. Here are four simple, heartwarming ways to deepen your connection with your furry friend during the colder months: - [4 Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Bond with Your Cat This Winter](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/4-simple-ways-to-strengthen-your-bond-with-your-cat-this-winter/): Winter is the perfect season to slow down and spend quality time with your feline friend. While cats are known for their independent streak, they also thrive on connection and routine. The cozy days of winter provide the ideal opportunity to deepen your bond with your cat and show them how much they mean to you. Here are four simple ways to strengthen your connection with your cat during the colder months: - [Why Your Dog Needs Extra Attention Now That School’s Back](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/why-your-dog-needs-extra-attention-now-that-schools-back/): As the school year begins and your kids head back to their classrooms, your dog might find himself feeling a bit left behind. After months of summertime fun, their daily routine is suddenly disrupted. This change can leave many dogs feeling lonely, restless, or even anxious as they adjust to quieter days with fewer people around. - [Prancing Poodle Newsletter, Winter Edition!](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/prancing-poodle-newsletter-winter-edition/) - [Making New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Pets](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/making-new-years-resolutions-for-you-and-your-pets/): Getting healthy is a common New Year’s resolution for us, but what about for our pets? It’s a great time of year to think about achieving good health for both you and your animals. Here are a few ideas on how you can promote fitness for yourself and your pets. - [Trick or Treat: Halloween Hazards for Dogs](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/trick-or-treat-halloween-hazards-for-dogs/): Tis the season of goblins and ghosts, tricks, or treats, and fun for all. What’s not so fun are the hidden Halloween dangers for dogs that can be found in candy, the excitement of the night itself, costumes, and decorations. With over 60 percent of Southeast Michigan residents owning pets, keeping dogs safe this time of year can save owners the high cost of vet bills and the heartache of losing a furry friend. - [How to Tell If a Cat Is Happy](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/how-to-tell-if-a-cat-is-happy/): So what are some behaviors you might look for to know if your cat is happy? - [Why Some Dogs Shouldn’t Visit Dog Parks](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/why-some-dogs-shouldnt-visit-dog-parks/): Dog parks can be a great place for canine friends to socialize, exercise, and have fun. However, not all pups are suited to the dog park environment. Dog owners need to assess the dog park environment before taking their pups there. Once there, smart owners will always be watching and evaluating the situation for their dogs as they play and interact with others. Every new dog introduced to the group will change the dynamic. A visit to a dog park is not a good time for owners to be doing anything other than watching their dogs. - [Pet Theft Awareness: Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/pet-theft-awareness-tips-for-keeping-your-pets-safe/): Owners should always be mindful of their pets’ safety. Pet theft is a growing problem locally, with many pets "disappearing" from their homes. While pet theft can happen to any pet and any owner, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the likelihood that you and your pet will become unfortunate victims of this crime. - [Keep Your Pets Safe in Your Holiday Celebrations](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/keep-your-pets-safe-in-your-holiday-celebrations/): From snuggling on the couch while watching holiday movies to joining you and your family for a festive meal, there are lots of ways to include your furry friends in the holiday festivities. But it’s important to keep safety in mind, too, when integrating your pets into your holiday celebrations. - [Playing Mind Games with Your Dog: Help Keep Your Dog Mentally Fit](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/playing-mind-games-with-your-dog-help-keep-your-dog-mentally-fit/): One of the best things you can do for your dog is to keep his mind active and stimulated. Just as we need intellectual stimulation to stay healthy, so does your dog. Playing games with your dog is a fun way to keep him mentally fit, as well as physically active. Here are some ideas for how to challenge your dog’s mind and keep him entertained! - [Why You Should Let Your Dog Stop and Sniff on Their Walks](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/why-you-should-let-your-dog-stop-and-sniff-on-their-walks/): When you take your dog out for a walk, do you let her stop and sniff around? If not, you might want to reconsider. Though it may seem like she’s just being lazy and trying to waste time, stopping to smell the roses (or, in this case, the fire hydrant) is really important for your pup. - [Home Grooming Tips for Your Dog: How to Keep Your Dog Clean, Healthy, and Looking Great!](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/home-grooming-tips-for-your-dog-how-to-keep-your-dog-clean-healthy-and-looking-great/): Dogs need to be groomed regularly just like people do. Not only does it make them look and feel better, but it’s also important for their health. In this blog post, we will give you tips on how to groom your dog at home. We’ll cover everything: shampooing and drying your dog, brushing and trimming your dog’s fur, cleaning a dog’s teeth, and trimming your dog’s nails. From the tip of their nose to the nails on their toes, we’ll help you keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best. - [How to Choose the Best Pet for Your Family](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/how-to-choose-the-best-pet-for-your-family/): When it comes to adding a new pet to your family, there are many things to consider. Pets can provide companionship, love, and security – not to mention hours of entertainment! But before you run out and adopt the first furry friend you see, take some time to think about what kind of pet would be best for your family. Your lifestyle, finances, and even your allergies, are factors to consider when making your decision. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of adding a new pet to your family and offer some tips on how to choose the right one for you! - [5 Steps to Help If Your Dog Is Lost](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/5-steps-to-help-if-your-dog-is-lost/): It's hard to describe the feeling of panic when you realize that your dog is lost. Millions of dogs are lost every year. Some find their way back home. Many do not. What can you do to improve the chances that your dog will be returned to you? Here are some simple steps you can take to increase the likelihood you and your best friend will be reunited. - [January is Walk Your Dog Month](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/january-is-walk-your-dog-month/): January is Walk Your Dog Month! It’s a great time to get active and take your dog for a daily walk. Walking should be enjoyable for both you and your dog, so why not work on some skills that will help both of you enjoy your time outside together. When walking your dog, it’s important to establish that you are the one in charge.  This is your time together, so focus your attention on your dog.  Don’t let your dog wander ahead of you or around you while you give your attention to texting on your phone or listening to music.  Focus on your dog, providing correction when needed and rewards when earned.  Be the Alpha.  Keep your head up, shoulders back and have your dog walk by your side or slightly behind you. If your dog has the habit of pulling forward, stop and refuse to move forward until the pulling stops. Then, provide positive reinforcement and soon your dog will learn to walk correctly. A good leash for walking your dog is important. Choose one that feels comfortable and provides secure control over your pet. In the beginning, keep the lead short, but not too tight. A harness often provides better security and more control over the dog than just a collar. This is especially important for little dogs with delicate necks or larger dogs who pull all the time.  In the beginning, your walks may seem more like a training session than a peaceful time together, but soon your dog will learn to walk nicely. Don’t always follow the same route on your walks. Dogs love the chance to take in all the various smells (they say the smells are like email for dogs), so take different routes to keep your dog’s mind engaged and stimulated.  If you are walking for exercise, walking at a good pace without stopping away from home and then letting your dog sniff on the way back exercises both the mind and body. If your dog is overweight or hasn’t been walked in long time, it’s a good idea to check with your vet to make sure there are no health issues. Just like humans, dogs need to be exercised slowly at first, building their conditioning over time. Finally, while on your walks, don’t forget doggie bags. Pet waste is a health hazard and if you don’t pick up after your pets, you’ll not only irritate your neighbors but you could be fined. With these tips in mind, both you and your dog will look like pros in no time. You’ll enjoy your time together in the great outdoors and build your bond. - [Train Your Dog Month](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/train-your-dog-month/): This year, the 8th annual National Train Your Dog Month takes place in January and is being promoted through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. As a professional pet sitter, I always ask if a dog has a “come” command and a “stay” command.  I know from experience that these two commands can save a dog’s life - [How Long is Too Long to Leave Your Dog Home Alone?](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/how-long-is-too-long-to-leave-your-dog-home-alone/): When dog owners schedule trips, the added cost of pet care is sometimes an unwelcomed surprise.  To cut down on the expense, they ask for two quick daily visits for dogs that are being left home alone for 24 hours a day for several days. - [How to Fight Dog Obesity – America’s #1 Dog Health Problem](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/fight-dog-obesity/): The most  recent survey from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention indicates that 53.8% of U.S. dogs are overweight or obese.  That translates to 41.9 million dogs! As for cats, 58.2% or 49.9 million are overweight or obese. - [COVID-19, You, and Your Pet](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/covid-19-you-and-your-pet/): Your safety when taking care of your pet during the COVID-19 pandemic is paramount. Now that we are out and about more, developing habits that put your health as a priority is important. Before reviewing how to keep yourself safe, what role do your pets play during this pandemic? - [How to be Your Pet Sitter’s Favorite Client](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/pet-sitters-favorite-client/): A good pet sitter is dedicated to providing the best possible care for  your pet in your absence.  But even the most trustworthy, experienced sitter can run into trouble if you don’t make sure that your responsibilities are met.  - [What To Do Now to Help Your Dog When You Return to Work](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/what-to-do-now-to-help-your-dog-when-you-return-to-work/): This time at home has been a special opportunity to spend lots of time together with your dog. But when you return to work and your former social activities, your dog will be left alone for a large part of each day. Here’s what to do now to help your dog when you return to work.  It’s a good idea to start working a little each day to get your dog get used to being left alone again. - [In-Home Care or Kennel? Here’s a Menu You and Your Pets Will Love](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/understanding-personalized-services-fees-professional-pet-sitter/): Potential clients sometimes have difficulty understanding how the cost of in-home pet care compares to the costs of a boarding facility or kennel.  If you are thinking about making the switch from boarding your pet at a veterinarian or boarding facility to leaving them at home in the care of a professional pet sitter, the following analogy may be helpful. - [The Initial Consultation with Your Pet Sitter/Dog Walker – What to Expect](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/the-initial-consultation-with-your-pet-sitter-dog-walker-what-to-expect/): Before confirming any services with new clients, we will schedule an initial consultation. At this meeting, the Pet Sitter will visit you and your pets at your house. - [Vaccinations: Keeping Your Pets Healthy](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/vaccinations-keeping-your-pets-healthy/): Many contagious diseases are airborne, and your pets could be exposed through an open window or even one visit outside. Boarding pets, taking them to the groomer, or visiting a dog park also raise the risk for exposure to contagions. - [Overnight Pet Sitting](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/overnight-pet-sitting/): Prancing Poodle Pet Care Services is pleased to offer clients overnight pet sitting service. Boarding at a kennel or your veterinarian’s office is not always the best option when you need to travel. The noise and proximity to other animals in the boarding facility can be difficult for pets used to the quiet of home. Playtime outside their crate is minimal. Personal attention is limited. Exposure to disease is a concern. Pets can usually spend a few nights at home alone without problems. A pet sitter visiting early in the morning, during the day, and late in the evening will meet their needs. But what happens when you need to be away for a week or longer? - [Signs of Illness in Pets](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/signs-of-illness-in-pets/): Responsible pet ownership requires a commitment to our pets’ health needs and being aware of the most common signs of illness. Establishing a relationship with a veterinarian we trust and following their advice is the first step towards securing a healthy life for our pets. But we must also be watchful and aware each day of the health-related signs our pets are giving us. They may not be able to tell us when they are not feeling well, but they let us know by demonstrating symptoms and changes in behavior. Knowing when to see your vet to secure the care and treatment your pets need is essential to their long-term well-being. - [Hints for Summertime Safety](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/summertime-safety/): Companion animals have been bred in ways that have left them susceptible to temperature extremes.  Summertime is fun, but hot weather poses some unique pet care challenges.  When the temperatures get extremely hot, pet safety should be top of mind.  - [Why Hire a Professional Pet Sitter?](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/hire-pet-sitter/): A qualified, professional pet sitter provides many benefits for your pet, as well as for you.  When you’re away from home, a professional pet sitter provides you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your pet is being cared for by a professional and that your home is being looked after. ## Pages - [Dog Sitting](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/dog-sitting/): We love ALL dogs, regardless of their breed or size. - [Summer Pet Care – Greater Lansing](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/summer-pet-care-greater-lansing/): Every year, pet owners in the Lansing area face the same dilemma: you have worked hard for your trip, and you deserve to enjoy it without spending time wondering whether your dog is being walked or your cat has fresh water. The difference between a relaxing vacation and an anxious one often comes down to a single decision made before you leave. - [Package TY](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/package-ty/): Your discount coupon will be emailed to you shortly, along with a special gift! - [dog walking packages](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/dog-walking-packages/): Save $125 Now on Daily Dog Walking Packages - [Employment](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/employment/): We visit clients’ homes 1 – 4 times a day to care for their pets.  Assignments can be for a day, a week, or several weeks.  We also offer daycare visits that provide 8 hours of continuous care.    - [Looking for the Perfect Pet Sitter?](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/looking-for-the-perfect-pet-sitter/): 🐾 Are you struggling to find a pet sitter who understands your unique needs? - [Form test](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/form-test/): TEST FORM Pop Up - Looking for the Perfect Pet Sitter? First Name(Required)Last Name(Required)Email(Required) Submit Δ - [Zoom](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/zoom/): If you’ve ever wondered how working with a trainer and a behaviorist intersect or diverge – and which expert would be the most helpful to you and your pet – join us to learn more. - [Book Now](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/book-now/): A free consultation is the first step of our process. Following the consultation, you will be asked to complete an on-line profile in our scheduling application. After that, you can book the services you need. We are then available to help with your pets on an as-needed basis. A simple call, an email, or submitting our on-line contact form is all it takes to start the process. - [Dog Walking Lansing](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/lansing-dog-walking/): CALL US | EMAIL US - [Pet Sitting Lansing](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/pet-sitting-lansing/): Get started with a free consultation in your home when you will: - [Contact](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/contact/): Get Started! - [Blog](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/blog/): by Prancing Poodle | Mar 17, 2026 | Pet Health, Pet Safety - [FAQs](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/faqs/): Professional Pet Care Assistants are just what the description implies – professional. While having friends, family, or neighbors care for your pets may seem like a logical choice, professional pet care assistants do this for a living and have the experience necessary to care for your animals. We are insured and belong to several industry trade associations. This means that you can trust us to act responsibly when we enter your home. Since this is our job, you can always count on us to be there. - [Service Area](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/service-area/): Pet owners outside of our service area are invited to contact us about fees for our personalized care services in their area. Additional rates may apply for travel distance and time. - [Wedding Services](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/wedding-services/): Pets in weddings can be delightful, but they can also be a source of stress. Let us attend to all the pet-related details of your special day and ensure that your pet is safe, happy, and well-cared for. - [Cat Sitting](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/cat-sitting/): Big cats, little cats, friendly cats or shy cats… - [Dog Walking](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/dog-walking/): We love ALL dogs, regardless of their breed or size. - [Services](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/services/): Choose from our standard services or talk to us about special needs you and your pets have. We will create a custom service plan that provides you with peace of mind and keeps your pets happy and healthy. - [About](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/about/): Prancing Poodle’s mission is to help you help your pets live their best life. Our personalized service to pets and their parents is unsurpassed. - [Privacy Policy](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/privacy-policy/): Our website address is: https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com - [Home](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/): Licensed, Insured, and Bonded Concierge Pet Care Services in Okemos, East Lansing, Haslett, Holt, Lansing, and Williamston ## Divi Areas - [Video popup](https://prancingpoodlepetcare.com/divi-area/video-popup/)