Pet-Safe Foods to Keep in Mind This St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is a day full of good food with family and friends, but it’s important to remember, while we’re celebrating with corned beef, cabbage, and soda bread, that not all holiday favorites are safe for our pets. Here’s a helpful guide to what’s pet-safe (in...
Our Top 5 Dog Walking Tools
At Claws and Paws, we put your pets first. Every walk, drop-in visit, and pet sitting stay is built around one goal: keeping your pet safe, happy, and comfortable. Over the years, we’ve refined the tools we rely on daily, and have come up with our top five necessities...
North San Diego Dog Owners: How Walks Help Training and Behavior
As a pet sitter who has worked with hundreds of dogs across North San Diego, from Encinitas to Rancho Santa Fe, I see every day how consistent walks and structured outings can make a huge difference in a dog’s behavior and training success. If your goal this new year...
Winter Fun Indoors: Creative Ways to Keep Your Pets Active and Happy with Enrichment
Why Indoor Enrichment Matters in Winter Winter evenings in North San Diego are cozy, but with the sun setting as early as 4:30, keeping your pets active and engaged can be a challenge. At Claws and Paws Pet Sitting, we know pets thrive on both physical activity and...
Thanksgiving Treats Your Pets Will Gobble Up: Because They Deserve a Feast Too
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude, and that includes our pets. At Claws and Paws Pet Sitting, we’ve been feeding our pets ‘people food’ for their health since the ’90s, and we love finding ways to include them in the celebration safely. Homemade, pet-friendly recipes are a great way to share the holiday spirit without risking tummy troubles.
Pet-Friendly October Events Near Encinitas and North County San Diego
Fall is one of the best times of the year to get out and enjoy life with your dog. The air cools, the golden light lingers, and pumpkin-spiced vibes make everything feel cozier. If you live in Encinitas, La Jolla, or anywhere in North County San Diego, October is your...
September is Animal Pain Awareness Month: What Every Pet Parent Should Know
September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, established by the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) to raise awareness about recognizing pain in pets. Unlike humans, our pets cannot simply tell us, “this hurts.” Instead, they rely on body...
A Day in the Life of a San Diego Pet Sitter
When people imagine being a pet sitter, they picture endless puppy snuggles, playful cats, and leisurely walks in the sunshine. And while those moments do happen (and they’re truly wonderful), the reality is that it’s hard, physical work and long hours. No two days...
Fun in the Sun: Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool and Engaged
Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of chances to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. But when temperatures climb, finding ways to keep your dog cool, safe, and entertained can take a little creativity. In North County San Diego, there aren’t many...
Traveling This Summer? 5 Smart Pet Prep Tips (and Why In-Home Pet Sitting Beats Boarding)
Summer is a great time to get away and recharge. But leaving your pets behind? That can be stressful! How do you know they’ll be safe, comfortable, and cared for while you’re gone? Having a reliable plan for pet care makes all the difference. Instead of noisy, crowded...
What Pet Owners Need to Know About Domoic Acid at Southern California Beaches
Southern California's picturesque coastline provides a wonderful getaway for both humans and their furry companions. However, beneath the beauty of its beaches lies an environmental concern that pet owners should be mindful of—domoic acid toxicosis. This article aims...
Snakebite Avoidance for Dogs in Encinitas and Surrounding Areas
Did you know rattlesnake bites are a growing risk for dogs in Encinitas? According to San Diego County's Department of Animal Services (DAS), calls for rattlesnake removals have tripled compared to the same time last year. I personally have seen two reports of...
Embracing Holistic Approaches to Manage Seasonal Allergies in Dogs and Cats
As the seasons change, so does the scenery in our backyards and parks, bringing with it the beauty of blooming flowers and budding trees. However, with this natural beauty often comes the onset of seasonal allergies for our beloved pets. Just like humans,...
Celebrating National Cat Health Month: 5 Tips for Keeping Your Feline Friends Healthy
February is National Cat Health Month, a perfect opportunity to shine the spotlight on our beloved feline companions and their well-being. As a professional pet sitting service, we are dedicated to helping cat owners ensure their pets lead happy and healthy lives....
How to Help Pets Affected by the LA Fires
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have not only affected countless humans but also left many pets in dire situations. As pet lovers and responsible community members, it's helpful to know how we can assist these vulnerable animals. Here’s a comprehensive guide...
A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Home for Holiday Guests with Pets
Set up a quiet area where pets can retreat if they become overwhelmed. Include a comfortable bed, toys, and water.
10 Key Items to Have in Your Pet’s Emergency Evacuation Bag
November is here, but there’s no chill in the air lately. It’s been warmer and drier than it should be, which reminds me...it’s fire season here in Encinitas and Southern California. Have you felt the following: dry skin, hangnails, bloody nose, dry eyes, headaches?...
Seven October and Halloween Pet Events in North County San Diego
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, San Diego North County comes alive with the spirit of autumn, offering a cornucopia of delightful events for pet lovers and their furry companions. This year, Claws and Paws Pet Sitting Service is thrilled to...

















