VIP Blog
Pet Care Hub
Local guides for Dallas Metroplex and Austin Metro pet parents, plus practical advice on pet sitting, dog walking and everyday pet care.
Dallas Metroplex and Austin Metro guides
Dallas Metroplex
Pet-Friendly Weekend Getaways from Dallas
A weekend away with your dog sounds simple until you check the map. From Dallas, Waco is about an hour and a half by car. Fredericksburg is about four and a half hours and San Antonio about five, so they work best as a long weekend rather than a quick escape. This...
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Plano, TX
DINING OUT WITH YOUR DOG IN PLANO Dogs are welcome on the patios of many Plano restaurants, which makes a meal out an easy way to include your dog. Trusted since 2001, VIP Pet Services provides in-home pet sitting and dog walking across the Dallas Metroplex, and we...
Austin Metro
Austin Pet Guide
Dog parks, dog-friendly patios and campgrounds in Greater Austin, plus official City resources.
Practical guides for every pet parent
Summer Travel with Your Pet
Bringing your pets on summer trips can be great, but you need to plan ahead and know the rules. Different places have different requirements for pets, including vaccinations, health certificates, and travel arrangements. To make traveling easier for your pet, get...
Keeping Your Indoor Cat Happy When You’re Away
Planning a getaway this summer? While you’re enjoying your vacation, it’s important to ensure your indoor cat remains happy and stress-free at home. Cats are creatures of habit, and changes in their environment or routine can cause anxiety. Here are...
Three Reasons to Meet with Your Pet Sitter in Advance
One essential step in planning to be away from your pets is meeting with your pet sitter before you finalize your plans. At VIP Pet Services, we understand that your pet is more than just an animal – they are a cherished member of your family. That’s why when...
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Latest articles
Feline Urinary Tract Infections: Types, Symptoms And Treatments
By: Cate Burnette Our cats, whether they live inside our homes or inhabit our back yards and gardens, are subject to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). FLUTD can be caused by any number of reasons, including cystitis, urethral obstruction and...
Ready to Celebrate Autumn? 5 Reasons to Take a Hike!
National Take a Hike Day is November 17th, and there’s no better time to load up your dog and get into the fall spirit! You may be surprised to learn that hiking carries a few unique health benefits, for both humans and dogs. 1. Nature relieves stress....
Tools for Happier Walks Part II: Dog Body Harnesses
By: Chris Pearcey There are many tools on the market that can help you teach your dog not to pull on walks. In a previous post, I discussed head harnesses. Another option is a body harness, but it is important to know that all body harnesses are not built equally....
It’s Almost Winter In Texas — How Does Cooler Weather Affect Our Pets?
By: Cate Burnette With the seasons changing and cooler weather moving in, it’s not just the humans in our families that will be affected by the cold. As caring pet parents, we need to become aware of how cooler temperatures influence the health and safety of...
4 Ways You Can Make a Difference During National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week
If you’re looking for a great fall activity this year, November 5th through the 11th is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. This is a perfect opportunity to catch up with the shelters and animal rescue groups in your area and learn how they help animals in...
Pet Cancer – What It Looks Like, How to Help
Pet Cancer Awareness Month By: Cate Burnette Veterinarians estimate the 6 million pets will be identified with various cancers this year. Cancer is the top disease-related killer of our beloved animals, with 1 in 4 dogs and cats diagnosed with a disease that...