Blog — Category_SparkandBark

5 Tips for Anyone Interested in Fostering Dogs Every year, 1.6 million shelter dogs are adopted, according to the ASPCA. Some of those dogs go straight from the shelter to their forever homes, but many are cared for by foster families first. Some dogs need a little extra love and care to become healthy, happy, and well-behaved before being adopted. Fostering is a rewarding experience for pet and person, but it is a serious commitment. If you are considering fostering, take into consideration these important steps you’ll need to take during the process. Prepare Your Home Dog-proofing your home is...

Puppies usually get adopted from shelters pretty fast. After all, who can resist those big eyes and round puppy tummies? But what about the dogs that are a little bit older? They deserve a family too! Read on to discover why welcoming an older shelter dog into your home might make your family complete.   Set personalities and looks. Puppies that are still growing may change in their personalities. Adopting an older shelter pup means that what you see is exactly what you’ll get. If you adopt a social dog, odds are that dog will continue to greet everyone he...

How to Introduce a Second Dog into Your Home Sometimes it is just impossible to say no to a second pair of imploring puppy eyes. If you are thinking about bringing another dog home, whether a puppy or an adult, check out these five tips to make the transition as smooth as possible. Fashion portrait of a dog wearing sunglasses sitting outdoor in the park Carefully Arrange the First Introduction Even if your first dog is well socialized, there is a good chance he or she will feel at least a little territorial about their home and you. A new...

How to Introduce a Cat to a New Home We here at Sparky Steps understand that bringing home a new cat is an exciting time; the world is full of possibilities, and you can’t stop thinking about how much love you are going to give your new friend. While adopting a cat is ultimately an amazing adventure, it can be a little stressful at first for both cat and owner. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to introduce a new cat to your home while reducing the stress on both ends.   Use a Carrier Use a...

5 Things to Know About Rescue Dogs Dogs are man’s best friend, but a lot of pups are still looking for a home. If you are thinking about adopting a four-footed companion, here are five things to know about rescue dogs.   There are a lot dogs in animal shelters Each and every year, approximately 3.3 million dogs are taken in by animal shelters. The annual shelter adoption rate for dogs is about 1.6 million per year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. That means at any given time there are millions of dogs...