The holidays are on the way, which is usually a hectic time. This is especially true if you're preparing for travel. Whether it’s business or pleasure, it’s inevitable that you will forget to write something down for your pet sitter.
If you're worried about your dog being treated for Alopecia X or Black Skin Disease, it can be especially stressful. You don't want to miss any treatments while you're gone as yeast can expand quickly, but it's often challenging to explain how to apply the Skin Rescue Lotion to your dog while you're away.
We've created a few tips for explaining to your pet sitter, neighbor, or boarding facility the importance of treatment so that they can provide the best care for your pet.
1. Explain the Importance of Lotion Application
Pet sitters are animal lovers and they want the best care for your pet. Asking them to provide extra care while you're away is still a big ask. Make sure you explain the importance of this application and how it will help your pet. Once they understand the issue, reputable pet sitters will have no problem applying the lotion daily.
2. Provide Disposable Gloves for Pet Sitters
Make it very easy for your sitter to apply the lotion. DERMagic Skin Rescue Lotion is formulated with extra "sticking" power. Our Hot Spot Salve, even more so.
This is not every person's favorite thing, but it makes our lotions and salve very effective.
Provide your pet's caretakers with a box of disposable gloves (latex-free, nitrile gloves work best for most).
2. Remember to Leave Old T-shirts or Onesies
Old t-shirts (or onesies for small dogs) work well for keeping the lotion in place during the day. If you're only scheduled for two visits, it's a good idea to have a solid stock of these.
Ask your sitter to put the used ones in the washer or special hamper so that the lotion doesn't get on your own (or their) clothing.
3. Identify Possible Sensitivities
Some dogs may have extra stress while you're away and this can impact their recovery. Explain to your pet sitter what to watch for in the event your dog experiences irritation or worries at a specific area on their skin.
Sensitivity to lotion, rashes, or other strange skin conditions should be reported to you even if you're on vacation. Ask them to provide photos should this happen. This will give you the opportunity to evaluate whether it's a sensitivity or stress response.
Should your dog become overly sensitive to the lotion, or experience severe rashes, ask your sitter to stop application for a day or two.
4. Explain How DERMagic Works
We have many helpful articles on our website that will not only educate, but potentially help other animals your pet sitter watches. Don't be shy about directing them to our informative pages.
These are a few of our favorites:
5. Tip Generously
Remember that applying skin rescue lotion to your pet is an extra service and be prepared to pay extra and/or tip generously.
If you feel trapped at home during the holidays because your dog is demanding, rest assured that they will be fine. Even if your sitter refuses to apply the lotion while you're away, you can start over when you return.
Whether your dog will be at a boarding facility, home with a pet sitter, or watched by a neighbor, a little education goes a long way towards their recovery (and perhaps the recovery of other dogs they care for).