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We've been asked time and time again, How exactly do points work? Well, we're here to tell ya (along with some other useful info on how PawSwap works)! Here are all of the most common questions asked my our members, INCLUDING explaining how our Pay-It-Forward model (aka Points program) works! What is PawSwap? PawSwap helps you say goodbye to guilt! By developing a platform that allows you to create and customize your trusted list of pet sitters and friends, and introducing our own Pay-It-Forward Points system, finding a lending hand nearby has never been easier, or more affordable. Okay cool, but how exactly does it work? We're going to keep it super simple for you. Here's THREE steps on how to get started on the PawSwap App! 1) Create your profile Work from home and want a pal for your pup? Or, need someone to watch your dog while you’re on vacay? Tell others what you’re looking for and what you can offer via your profile! 2) Customize your "Pack" Find your friends, find your neighbours, find that person you met at the dog park last weekend! Add them all as a Friend on the app! Now you've got your trusted Pack that you can continue to grow. PS: You can find new friends by messaging owners in your neighbourhood that you'd like to meet. Connect by asking them to join you at the next PawSwap meet-up or organize your own doggy date! 3) Start swapping! Respond to requests that come in and send out requests whenever you need a hand. Use Points to keep track - no need to worry about who owes who! How do you know you can trust the people on the network? You don't. Bet you didn't expect that from us ;). Okay, here's the lowdown. The people in your Pack are NOT strangers. You build your Pack based on neighbours in the PawSwap network that you've met, friends you know, dog owners you've spoken to at a PawSwap meet-up, or even people at a bar you've met a few times, but always forgot what their name was so you add them as a Friend on the PawSwap App, because they're friends of friends and you've seen them out a million times....you get the idea. You already trust these people! You know these people. You like these people! Now, whenever you need a hand, you just send ONE message, which notifies everyone in your Pack (created by YOU). Whoever takes care of your pup earns Points! Now, our favourite topic... Points! How the heck do they work? We LOVE professional pet sitters. But, we know you can't always afford a professional pet sitter every day of the week. So, maybe you decide to leave your dog alone, not go on that vacation you planned, or you just bring your dog wherever you go (do "no dogs allowed" signs even exist? 🤷🏽‍♀️). Insert PawSwap Points! Option 1: Earn Points You earn Points by replying to your trusted Pack when they need a hand! Your dog gets a buddy to play with, and you earn Points! Option 2: Spend Points You use those Points towards pet sitting for your own dog. Voila! Your pet sitting just became FREE. 1 Point equals 1 hour, but don't worry about that. We do the math for you 😉. Or... You decide to spend them on products for your pup, like a BarkBox Super Chewer or a discount on your favourite dog shampoo! Option 3: Buy Points (aka: top up your account!) You purchase Points from us, which you can use for pet sitting for your pup. (They are only $1/point!). What's a PawSwap meet-up? PawSwap meet-ups are a great way to meet new friends and grow your Pack! They're either planned by our meet-up ambassadors (usually your neighbours who live close by), OR they're planned by PawSwap. Come on down to our next one and find new friends to add to your Pack! Well, can’t I just text someone instead of using the app? Yes! Of course. But, wouldn't you rather send one message to everyone in your trusted Pack of Friends for a hand vs. messaging each friend individually? And, wouldn't it be easier to just use Points (which you earned for helping another Friend out), vs. money, or needing to grab a $20 bottle of wine? Knowing that your Friends can use those Points towards pet sitting (or whatever THEY want to buy within the app) will give you peace of mind! Whats the deal with PawSwap? How did it start? Our story began with our founder, Aliya, and her dog Russell. If you're anything like her, then you understand the torturous daily routine of saying goodbye to your dog before leaving for your 8 to 10 hour work day. Closing the door behind your best friend, and seeing those puppy dog eyes is not only painfully hard, but it can lead to dogs developing anxiety, depression. and/or destructive behaviour. ​ She knew there had to be a solution, and PawSwap was born. ​ When you join the PawSwap community you'll meet your neighbours and find new friends that can lend a hand when you're in a bind! Reward whoever helps with Points, which you earn from helping other Neighbour's out. It's Pay-it-forward at its finest! So, what are you waiting for? Download the PawSwap App, and start creating your Pack of trusted pet sitters and friends that you can rely on, last minute, with the push of a button!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in West End, Natasha and her pup Raisin. Raisin is a very playful, energetic and friendly 7 month old Cockapoo. Raisin loves to go on long walks to the beach or to the dog park to play fetch. She likes to play with dogs her own size and who still have that puppy energy! Natasha and Raisin can... ✗ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✓ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✓ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're on vacay? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Raisin... How do you and Raisin usually start your mornings? Raisin is definitely an early morning riser so our typical day starts around 6:30 or 7:00 a.m. with a morning walk. We then head home to get ready for work aka, Raisin eats her breakfast and gets ready for her morning nap. Can Raisin join you at work? Unfortunately, Raisin cannot join me at work :( Pst: PawSwappers, add Natasha as a friend on the PawSwap App so you can earn points by lending a hand while she is at work! What does an average day look like for you two? Raisin stays at home while I go to work but conveniently, I work and live Downtown so I can pop back to her at lunch time for a quick bathroom outing. After work, our evening usually consists of going for a run together or going to play fetch at the dog park. Before bed Raisin usually gets the zoomies and she will hide under the coffee table so she doesn't have to go to sleep. What do you two get up to on weekends? Weekends follow a similar morning routine but if I'm lucky Raisin will snuggle in for extra cuddles as we don't have to get up so early. We spend a lot of time going on long walks to Sunset Beach Dog Beach and to new and exciting places for Raisin to explore. She also loves coming with me to visit friends and eat out on dog friendly patios! Why do you and Raisin love PawSwap? PawSwap helps Raisin to meet new dogs and puppies in our area and the app makes it super convenient to set up doggy playdates. Do Natasha and Raisin sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add her as a friend on the PawSwap App!

As a pup parent, there is so much you can learn from other dog owners. One of the best places to meet others as enthusiastic about their dogs as you are about yours is the dog park! We’re sure you hear over and over again how important it is to socialize your dog. And it’s true! Dogs that interact with other dogs and people develop unmatched confidence and have healthier lives. A social dog is a happy dog. Not only do dogs learn essential social skills at the park, but they also have tons of fun, which is why we host so many of our meet-ups at dog parks. Whether you’re a dog park veteran or you’re a pup park newbie, Carly, our community coordinator, has some guidelines to help you and your dog get the most out of your next dog park adventure. 1. Make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on his or her vaccinations! If your dog feels under the weather, let him or her rest and recover. The excitement of the dog park can be too much for a dog that doesn’t feel well. 2. Do the right thing and pick up after your pup. Don’t be embarrassed if your dog uses the bathroom at the dog park—it’s normal! But make sure you’re prepared to scoop up after them and toss the mess where it belongs. As you return time and time again to a dog park, you’ll develop pride in how clean it’s kept and cut down on any unpleasant smells. 3. Pay attention to your pup. If your dog is playing rough or feeling nervous, you want to be able to step in just in case. Dogs that are learning to pick up on cues and play nicely can get themselves into situations that might not know how to deal with. Luckily, as a great owner, you’ll be there to rescue them! 4. Leave the treats and snacks in your car. One thing you may notice is that off-leash time at the dog park can result in some dogs forgetting their manners: some may jump up while others will want to share your lunch. Don’t give them the opportunity to get in trouble by leaving the tempting treats in your vehicle. 5. Most dog parks have a rule against unaltered female dogs in heat. They can cause fights at the park, so better safe than sorry! 6. Even though most dog parks let your pup run free, you still want to make sure your dog is wearing a well-fitted collar. This will keep your dog safe if you need to leash them up quickly. 7. Watch for signs of toy possession. Dogs love fetch. And who can blame them? If your dog is joining in on the fun of another dog’s toy or vice-versa keep an eye on how they’re behaving. 8. Be friendly. Always treat other dogs how you’d want your beloved pooch to be treated. There’s no doubt that the dog park is dog-gone fun for everyone! We hope to see you at our next events and that you’ll check out PawSwap to meet other passionate dog owners. Now that you know the rules and guidelines at the park, join us for our next PawSwap meet-up so you can... ✓ Meet your neighbours who are also dog owners (and potential sitters!) ✓ Let your pup have a blast while playing with other dogs! ✓ Receive a FREE PawSwap Bandana for your dog ✓ Meet some of the PawSwap team, they can answer any questions you have about the app! Upcoming Meet-Ups: Saturday, May 11, 1 PM @ Vic West Dog Park Sunday, May 26, 2 PM @ Olympic Village Dog Park (215 W 1st Ave) Saturday, June 8, 2 PM @ Port Moody Off-Leash Dog Park for Barks and Brews!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in North Burnaby, Kamie and her dog Luna! Luna is a 4 year Husky Samoyed mixed, born on January 7th. She is a big baby and loves to be snuggled while watching a movie on the couch. Though she is a big snuggler, Luna loves to explore and is wild out in nature. Fun fact about Luna, she LOVES chasing rocks! Not balls, but rocks. You can throw a rock into some trees or bushes and she will bring it back every time! Luna can also be described as a garburator as she likes all kind of food! If she's not cuddling, exploring, or eating you can probably find her playing with her dog sister Keeda, or sharing yummy treats with her human sister! Kamie and Luna can... ✓ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✗ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✗ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're on vacay? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Luna... How do you and Luna usually start your mornings? We start the morning by cleaning the house, having breakfast and then we usually go for a nice long walk or if the weather is exceptionally beautiful we will go for a hike! What does an average day look like for you two? When I'm not working, an average day consists of ball fetching, long walks, a few nap times and Luna eating all the left overs from meals. On days where I have go to work, Luna's Grandpa will take her and Keeda for a walk in the middle of the day. Sometimes, once or twice a week, Luna will go to daycare and play with other dogs all day. Pst: PawSwappers, you can earn points by lending a hand while Kamie is at work! What do you two get up to on weekends? Always the park! Ice cream at Rocky point (they even have ice cream just for dogs). Playing in the backyard. And in winter time a lot of trail walks, Luna will play in the snow forever! Are there activities you do where Luna can't join? Mostly day to day things like grocery shopping, going to the mall, and visiting some family members. DID YOU KNOW: PawSwappers, there is no minimum time that you can have your dog watched. Just need an hour to run some errands? Easy, it only uses 1 point! Why do you and Luna love PawSwap? PawSwap introduces us to people that are like minded creating new friendships for our dogs. Do Kamie and Luna sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Download the PawSwap App to meet lots of new friends!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Yaletown, Sooah and her dog Gordon! Gordon is a funny little rescue from Puerto Vallarta! He started at his fur-ever home as a shy 5-month old but learned to be a confident snuggle bug. He loves when other dogs chase him, but he’s not much of a wrestler. He’s an easy-going dude and the biggest sweetheart. Sooah and Gordon can... ✗ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✗ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✓ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're on vacay? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Gordon... How do you and Gordon usually start your mornings? I work a regular 9-5 job, so we usually get up around 6 for coffee in bed with cuddles. Gordon sleeps in the bed with me and loves to fall asleep in a tiny ball, but I wake up to him sprawled and taking up as much space as possible. It’s really his bed that he’s sharing with me! After we go for a walk, he stays at home to nap (lucky boy). Can Gordon join you at work? Sadly, not! At my regular job, that is. My weekend job allows him to come to the spin studio and say hello to all of the members. Pst: PawSwappers, add Sooah as a friend on the PawSwap App so you can earn points by lending a hand while she is at work! What does an average day look like for you two? After I get home from work, we head straight to the dog park. He has a ton of energy when we’re out of the house, so off-leash time is important. He loves all dogs but puppies like him best. He’s an ear nibbler and loves to be chased. While he’s not a fan of the water or playing fetch, he loves to make new friends. What do you two get up to on weekends? We love to walk around the neighbourhood with a coffee in hand. In the summers, he loves to run along on a hike. Even in the winter, if temperatures permit, he’ll come along for snowshoeing! If we need a day to recharge, we love to snuggle on the couch and have some treats (brownies for me, sweet potatoes for him). Why do you and Gordon love PawSwap? PawSwap helps Gord to socialize and make new friends! It’s nice to know other dog families in the neighbourhood who are open to meeting up and getting together. Do Sooah and Gordon sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add her as a friend on the PawSwap App!

Adding a new furry member to your family can be a big decision. Becoming a new dog mom or dad can be overwhelming, but also fun and exciting! We still have a puppy hangover from our last meet-up, which brought together dog owner veterans and new paw-rents to socialize and chat about their experiences. The meet-up also included... ✔️ Puppy tips from Doug Leaf, CEO of Outpost Dog Food and a movie animal trainer (Guys, he trained #AIRBUD 🏀)! ✔️ Socialization for your puppy and new connections with other puppy parents ✔️ New friends on the PawSwap App so you can keep in touch! ✔️ Photos taken by professional photographer Vancouver Pet Photography And of course, there was lots of tail-waggin' and slobbery kisses! Did you miss out on the fun? Not to worry, with help from Doug, the trainer, we’ve compiled a list of 14 answers to the most common questions and concerns new puppy parents ask. 1. Beware when letting your puppy play other dogs until he or she has gotten their shots at 12 weeks. This can help your pup avoid possible exposure to various serious diseases Parvo, distemper, adenovirus, and rabies. 2. Socialize your pup as much as you can. There’s a whole world beyond your house and backyard for your puppy to explore. While keeping tip number-1 in mind, socialize your dog with your friends’ or family’s pups (just make sure they have their vaccines). Socialization isn't only fun for your puppy but also gets them more comfortable in a wider variety of situations preventing anxiety or aggression later on. The phrase “a tired pup is a happy pup” is true – keep your pup happy and tired with lots of socialization! 3. Expose your pup to the amazing world around them! This is the time when their brains create a photo album of memories and associations. The more photos and positive experiences you can put into that album, the better. Expose your pup to other dogs, children, and domestic animals. You should also handle your pup in different ways and let them play with a variety of toys. Let your pup learn about different places, sounds, and adventures and try and make it a paw-sitive experience wherever they go. 4. Train your puppy to associate you with treats! Humans rely on sight to make sense of their surroundings, but our dogs’ use their adorable noses! Dogs can smell 20-times better than humans, and so they rely heavily on it to make sense of their environment. That's why rewarding dogs with strongly scented treats while training works so well! This is why they’re essential for the right technique for beginning leash training and recall response with your puppy. 5. Start leash training and recall training early. You can start leash-training your puppy as young as 2 months old. To get your puppy to form positive response to the leash and harness or collar, begin by showing your pup the leash and collar, then rewarding him with a tasty treat. After a few days of this, beginning putting the collar and leash on him and providing a treat and positive praise. Eventually, you can take a few steps away and call your puppy’s name. When he comes to receive the treat, let him have it and praise him. As he gets older, he is less likely to pull if training begins young. If he does pull, stop him from walking, call his name, and wait for him to come to you. Treat him, then begin walking again. 6. Get them used to you touching their paws. Aren’t your pup’s paws cute? We recommend you spend some time playing with those petite toes and massaging their paws. This may sound funny, but this is essential if you have young children in the house. Dogs can be very sensitive about their paws if they’re not used to being handled. This will also come in handy when it’s time to clip their nails! 7. Take your puppy on car rides. Dogs, like children, might go through a stage of motion sickness the first few times they ride in the car, but starting them early minimizes the possibility of them developing a fear car rides later on in life. Your pup will also be happy to have the whole pack packed into the car together and take in all the new smells! 8. Never leave your puppy in a vehicle unattended. Within 30 minutes, 20-degrees Celsius outside can turn into 40-degrees. When it's that warm outside, the temperature inside the car could reach upwards of 78-degrees Celsius! As the temperature rises, dogs will try to cool off by panting, and their anxiety level will likely also rise due to their discomfort. After all, imagine wearing a furry coat in a small, 78-degree room, not knowing where your family is. Let's just say, if you leave your dog in the car and someone breaks your window, please thank them! While hotdogs may be tasty, hot dogs can be fatal. 9. Reduce biting and nibbles through pup-like play and responses. Puppies have surprisingly sharp teeth! To discourage your puppy’s biting and nipping habit during play, you need to think and play like one of his siblings. If your puppy gets too rough, you should respond with a high-pitched cry and stop playing. This is no fun for your puppy, which conditions him to play more gently. If your puppy is teething, provide plenty of chew toys to encourage appropriate chewing. 10. Crate training reduces headaches. Make your puppy’s crate a fun, safe place. Doug recommends getting a plastic crate instead of a wire one and putting a nice blanket or pillow on the bottom of the crate. Tie the door open so they can freely go in and out without the fear of being locked up. Remember, a crate is not a prison, and you shouldn’t punish your puppy by locking him in there. A crate is meant to mimic a den where your dog can relax with a little puppy privacy. To begin, put your puppy's food in the crate and let them eat in there. Throw in treats and toys and encourage them to retrieve them. Eventually, your dog will go into their crate and take a nap. Making their crate a safe relaxing zone will really help alleviate any additional stress if you need to travel with your pet! 11. Make sure your puppy has fun in the sun and access to drinking water. Your puppy needs fresh air and some vitamin D. However, unlike humans, dogs do not make vitamin D in their skin. When UVB rays strike their fur and activate oils to produce vitamin D. Keep in mind with the excitement of the new world around them, sometimes puppies don't know when it's time to take a break. It's important to keep an eye on your pup and ensure they are getting some fun in the sun with regular water breaks. 12. Obedience train your dog at 6 months. Young puppies have short attention spans, but you can expect them to begin to learn simple obedience commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “stay.” After 6 months, your puppy can absorb more information and start to understand the importance of basic manners. Whether it’s on your own, or with a professional trainer, understanding your pup's body language is a huge part of connecting and training your new family member. 13. Routine, routine, routine: Create and stick to a potty and feeding routine! Dog thrive when they have a schedule to follow. This can reduce separation anxiety and unwanted behaviours. That’s why we saved the best for last. Experienced dog owners know that this may be the most relatable and important tip, yet. Accidents are bound to happen, but creating a routine that your puppy can get used to will greatly minimize accidents in the house. The hard part is sticking to it, so make sure to work out a plan that your whole family can get on board with. 14. Feed your puppy 3 - 4x per day Did you know your puppy grows while he or she is asleep? Your puppy will grow fast over the next few months. So make sure she or she gets lots of nutrients! Vets recommend keeping a consistent schedule (this will help with potty training, see tip 13) and feeding your puppy up to 4 times a day until they reach 5 months old. After that, switch over to a breakfast and dinner routine. Pro tip from Doug: raising puppies on a raw food diet sets them up for success mentally and physically. Bonus tip from Doug: I highly recommend reading the book: Give Your Dog a Bone by Dr. Ian Billinghurst The most important things to remember when bringing home your new best friend is to enjoy the moments when your pup is small and learning. At times it may be tough, but your love for your new puppy will be returned with licks and loyalty, and unforgettable memories. And of course, these outweigh a few accidents here and there and those surprising puppy nibbles! P.S. Always contact your vet for any questions or concerns regarding your animals. Their opinion matters most!

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Mount Pleasant, Vanessa and her pup Teddy! Vanessa is a first time dog mom! She adopted Teddy in 2012. Like most rescue pups, Teddy Bear was very anxious and suffered from separation anxiety. The first time Vanessa brought him out for a walk, he just sat there and wouldn't budge. After years of love and training, Teddy is now a happy and well-adjusted city dog who confidently prances around Vancouver with his head held high. Vanessa and Teddy can... ✓ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✗ Take care of dogs on weekends ✗ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✗ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're at work? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Teddy... How do you and Teddy usually start your mornings? We start off every morning with a short walk around the block. Teddy isn't really a morning person so he won't get off his bed until the absolute last second when I'm dressed with my shoes on and his leash in my hand. Then he'll do a big yoga stretch and give me the laziest yawn before trotting over to me so I can put on his leash. What does an average day look like for you two? I am the Vancouver lifestyle blogger behind: modernmixvancouver.com. Most of my work is done at home on the computer, so weekdays for Teddy aren't very exciting. He's just content to chill and nap all day. Maybe he'll get up and follow me around for a bit if I'm making a delicious-smelling lunch! Pst: PawSwappers, add Vanessa as a friend on the PawSwap App so she receives your notifications when you need a hand! Can Teddy join you at work? When I first got Teddy, I worked at an ad agency in Downtown Vancouver which was pet friendly. When I switched jobs, we had a few years where Teddy had to stay home (boring!). But since starting my own freelance marketing business, I now work from home, so Teddy and I can be together all day again. What do you two get up to on weekends? Vancouver is a fairly pet-friendly city so when I'm out and about running errands on foot, Teddy usually comes with me as my patient little sidekick. Did you know most banks allows for dogs inside? Sometimes mine will even give him a treat! He especially likes shopping in neighbourhoods like Gastown, Main Street, Kitsilano, or South Granville because he gets so much attention from dog-loving store staff and other shoppers. Teddy is really sweet, I like seeing him put a smile on the faces of people we encounter. Why do you and Teddy love PawSwap? We love connecting with the community and meeting with other dog owners. Do Vanessa and Teddy sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add her as a friend on the PawSwap App!

Every pup parent knows how hard it can be to see their dog’s sad eyes watch them grab their keys and close the door. Leaving your house can be even more difficult and emotionally draining when your dog experiences separation anxiety. If your dog has expressed separation anxiety, you’re probably well aware of the signs and symptoms: drooling, crying, trying to squeeze around your ankles and dashing to the car. There are also the destructive and inconvenient side effects, like howling until the neighbours feel the need to call, forgetting how to hold it and making a mess on the carpet, pacing, and possibly chewing and destroying furniture and toys. So how can you prevent this? First, Why Do Dogs Experience Separation Anxiety? There is not one correct answer as to why some dogs will develop separation anxiety, while others never seem to mind or notice when you leave the house. One theory is because dogs are pack animals, they naturally don’t go at it alone. Another relates to your dog’s upbringing and past. If your pup came from a shelter or had a troubled life before you adopted him, he may be more fearful of being left alone. So, when he’s alone he may react negatively by becoming upset, barking continuously, crying out, or having accidents in the house. How Can You Help Your Dog Deal with and Heal from Separation Anxiety? From the chewed up pile of fluff to non-stop barking, a dog struggling with separation anxiety can be stressful for everyone involved. But, there is a lot you can do as a dog parent to help eliminate and prevent it. Here are a few steps on how to help your dog live a happier and healthier life by dealing with their separation anxiety: Exercise Your Dog Regularly: Your dog has a lot of built up energy stored away, and exercise is a sure-fast way to not only tire him out, but also reduce anxiety. How much exercise to give your dog depends on the breed, but a dog with separation anxiety should receive double the recommended amount of exercise while you’re trying to break the habit. Ensure your dog receives plenty of walking and mental stimulation to help her feel ready to rest when you leave. PS: PawSwap has monthly meet-ups that are sure to tire your pup out, and you'll find new friends even faster! Don’t Make a Scene When You Leave or Return Home: We attach to certain actions, like kissing and hugging to showing we care. This isn’t something your dog understands. These actions are primarily to make us feel better, not your dog. When we perform these actions, it confuses your dog and essentially makes the problem worse. To solve this problem, don’t talk to your dog when you’re entering or leaving the house. Ignoring her is the best thing you can do before greeting her when you get home. When you leave, don’t say goodbye, your dog will associate this with being alone and ultimately lead to anxiety until you return. Consider Adopting a Companion Dog: Sometimes, getting a second dog will help keep your bff company. If this isn’t possible, why not ask your neighbour if your dogs can hang out together while you’re gone, and you’ll do the same for them when they’re gone (hey, we may know the perfect app for that 😉). Leave a Little Noise or Entertainment: Leave the TV or radio on before you leave the house. This not only helps with anxiety, but it also helps with excessive barking while you’re gone. The noise drowns out outside sounds and will make your dog feel more at peace. There are also tons of YouTube videos you can stream, made especially for dogs with anxiety. Leave this on while you’re out, and you’ll come back to a relaxed and happy doggy. Practice Makes Perfect When you begin using some of these techniques, practice leaving for a few minutes at a time, ignoring your dog when you leave and enter each time. Spread it out over 1 minute, then increase it to 2, 3, 4 and so on until you do it for a few hours at a time. Again, no saying bye, no hugging, no kissing, no high-pitched voices – ignore, ignore, ignore! Final Thoughts Whatever you do, don’t leave the issue alone as it will get worse. The longer you go without fixing a problem, the more habitual it will become. Remember to be patient with your nervous pup without making a huge deal out of the situation.  As with any sort of training, consistency is key. Make sure everyone in the family or any Friends and Neighbours know the steps that help your pup get over his fear. Some dogs take more time than others, but don’t worry there is a light at the end of the tunnel - we promise! While we know it’s cute having a dog that’s super attached to you, the stress could end up shortening your best friend’s life, and no one wants that. As your dog builds confidence, and you learn what approach works best for him, he will begin to feel less anxious and happier. So, grab the leash, take your dog on a walk, remember to leave the tv on when you go to work, and get started on an anxiety-reducing, dog-friendly routine.

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Yaletown, Nadine and her pup Furnando! Furnando (who goes by Furdi or Furdaniel) just turned 3 and is a fluffy cuddle-bum! He has a gentle, calm energy, but also loves running through the woods and smelling everything along the way. Nadine and Furdi can... ✓ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✓ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✓ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a buddy while you're at work? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Furdi... How do you and Furdi usually start your mornings? When I show signs of life Furdi snorts and tail wags his way up to my face for a few minutes of morning snuggles but he loves to sleep in so it’s his way of trying to make me stay in bed. Our first order of business is a cup of green tea and the seawall, rain or shine! We see a lot of the same faces every morning so our days always start with happy greetings as we make our way from the bottom of Davie to George Wainborn Park and home again before breakfast! What does an average day look like for you two? I’m incredibly fortunate to work from home so after our morning walk or run (depending on the day) it's gym time and then settling into my home office for work. He makes a cameo on most of my WebEx meetings because he sits in my lap for 90% of the day and pops his head up from time to time At lunch, we usually just have a quick loop around Yaletown with a stop at Emery Barnes Park and then it’s back to business. I try to break from work with enough time to hit Kits dog beach because it’s our happy place and most nights we meet up with some friends for some social time. Pst: PawSwappers, add Nadine as a friend on the PawSwap App so she receives your notifications when you need a hand! What do you and Furdi get up to on weekends? Our weekends almost always include a trip to the north shore or pacific spirit park for trail runs and some fresh air. A weekend is also not complete without some bestie time with @indypitstop! Because I work from home, we tend to be very social during the evening and weekends to help with cabin fever! Lucky for us, all of our friends have dogs and most times, the pups are included. Are there any activities you do where your pup can't join? I love going to live shows: concerts, theatre, galleries! I’m also a bit of a gym rat but Furdi tucks himself into bed around 8pm so he doesn’t mind kicking it at home when I go train. (PawSwappers, help out Furdi's mom when she wants to hit the gym early or have an evening out!) What do you and Furdi love about PawSwap? We love the meet-ups and most recently, we met a new pal who just lost her fur baby to take care of Furdi when I travel. I travel quite a bit for work and even though our friends all love to have the extra company, for longer trips it’s nice to have someone who’s just all about Furnando that will love him like I do when I’m away. Does Nadine and Furnando sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add them as a friend on the PawSwap App!

There’s no doubt about it: dogs love going on walks. As soon as you say the word “walk,” your dog’s heart begins racing, her tail starts to wag, and she probably rushes toward the door. Walks are fun for us, too. Nothing makes dog parents happier than providing our pups with a fun, exciting, and safe experience which is why your walking gear matters! When it’s time for a walk, your dog’s leash, collar, and harness are important, and choosing the right ones can be quite the task. While the dog collar is by far one of the most popular dog products, many owners have been moving towards using harnesses, instead. If you’ve been considering if a harness is a better option for your dog, we’ve got an answer for you. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Dog Collars Collars are great for many reasons. They allow fur-parents to easily let their pups out for a quick bathroom break, they provide a place to hang ID and vaccination tags, and of course, they are a cute accessory! However, for longer walks, and if your pup is still learning leash-etiquette, collars alone aren't necessarily the best option. Collars can cause strain on your pup’s neck and spine if used incorrectly. For certain breeds, like Bulldogs, collars can sometimes slip right off, because they have virtually no neck! Using just a collar for long walks over the course of your dog’s life can lead to issues like: Spine issues Chaffing Throat injury Breathing issues That is why we always suggest a collar and harness combo! But the options that big box stores have to offer can be boring or poor in quality. When shopping for a harness, you want to make sure you’re choosing one that will last and keep your pup happy for years of happy walks. 5 Qualities to Look for When Shopping for the Perfect Harness All dogs have unique builds. From short-legged Corgis to tall, thin Greyhounds, our best friends come in all shapes and sizes. The right harness is a necessary investment, no matter how big or small your best friend is. So, how can you choose a harness that will properly fit your dog, provide the control you need on walks, and help your dog feel and stay comfortable? 1. Safety comes first. With so much variation in dogs’ sizes and body build, make sure you choose a harness your dog won’t squeeze out of. You also want to be able to put your dog into her harness quickly and easily without applying pressure to her joints. 2. Choose a clip location that works best for you and your pup. A front clip provides a bit more control for dogs who pull, but a back-clip prevents your dog from tripping over her leash all the time. 3. Choose a material and thickness that works for your dog. Materials that are too stiff or heavy can cause skin irritation. Usually, lightweight breathable materials work well for most dogs. 4. Padded or unpadded? Padded. There’s a wide range of benefits of padded harnesses. The biggest advantage is that they’re comfortable and reduce the risk of skin issues. 5. Durability is a must! You want a harness that won’t come apart mid-walk and last while. A good harness will be made from materials that won’t breakdown from wear or weather. What Dogs and Their Parents Have Been Waiting For: A Stylish and Comfy Harness We’ve hunted around, and there are a ton of collars and harnesses on the market. Luckily, we found one brand that goes above and beyond the rest. It is both comfortable and as cute as your canine: Blue Paw Co. Blue Paw Co. products are not only stylish, but extremely high quality. Their harnesses are specifically made to have a great fit for French Bulldogs, Pugs, and other breeds. But don't fret, Blue Paw Co. harnesses also fit other breeds as well. We had Olive, PawSwap’s Marketing Assistant, give them a go (as seen in the photo below). Why You’ll Love Blue Paw Co. Harnesses Blue Paw Co.’s harnesses are breathable, so your dog won’t get as hot on walks. This also helps them dry quickly for pups who love to splash in puddles. They’re perfectly padded. This makes them comfy for dogs of all shapes and sizes (especially for those pups with broad chests or dogs that tend to pull). They’re as adorable as your dog! They come in great colors and patterns that are sure to amplify how adorable your pup is. They’re built to last. Say “good-bye” to buying your dog a new harness every other month, these harnesses are weather-resistant and tough. They are super secure, so your pup won’t slip out. They’re perfect for night walks! These cute harnesses come with reflective patches to help you keep a close eye on your pup at night. Which Blue Paw Co. is Right for Your Pup? The classic dog harness: This is great for all kinds of pups. It goes over their head, and clips around their chest! The reversible dog harness: This is for the stylish diva dogs or fashionable male model pups. These harnesses have two different adorable prints that you can switch between. The adjustable dog harness: Finally, a harness for the Bulldogs and other oddly shaped pups! This harness allows you to fully adjust the neck and chest straps to ensure a paw-fect fit! Other Great Blue Paw Co. Products that You and Your Dog Will Adore Blue Paw Co. also offers dog collars, leashes, bow ties, bandanas, and hoodies. These all come in a variety of cute and original prints. Want your dog to be the ultimate fashionista? You can even get a collar, harness, leash, and bandana all in the same print! The Inspiration Behind the Blue Paw Co. Brand When dog-obsessed business owner, Marion, was having a tough time finding a harness with a perfect fit and stylish design for her French Bulldog, she decided to take matters into her own hands and founded Blue Paw Co.! The Blue Paw Co. team consists of Marion and her 4-year-old Blue Brindle French Bulldog, Zoey. Zoey is what she likes to call her "furry CEO" that doubles as a model (@zoeythebluefrenchie).  Zoey was the inspiration behind the brand, with her being a Blue Frenchie and the company logo being a French Bulldog. You may have not noticed, but if you look closely, the logo includes a heart on the dog’s nose to reflect the heart shape that is created by shadows on Zoey's forehead. Before Blue Paw Co. After graduating university with a Bachelor of Business Administration and double concentration on Marketing and Human Resources, Marion worked for an HR Consulting Firm. She then moved on to working as an event planner for corporate events for a few years. Most recently, after working in digital advertising and starting her first company, Crystal Communications Inc., Marion wanted to take her love for dogs and fill the gap in the market for bully-breed friendly harnesses. That is when Blue Paw Co. came to life! Local Business Lowdown We asked Marion about being a business owner and what her favourite part was. Her response: "Having the autonomy to make your own decisions and seeing those play out. You might put more hours than you would working a 9-5, but it's the most rewarding feeling seeing that hard work directly translate into something great that you are proud of." Marion saw the importance of small businesses to generate new ideas, concepts, and product diversity in the marketplace. She said it best, "It takes risk to start a business: most small and local businesses will put their heart and soul into their products, as their business is a direct reflection of themselves". A statement that we couldn't agree more on! After hearing Marion's story, and of course meeting Zoey, we knew we had to share this company with our PawSwap members. Final Thoughts Celebrate walk-time with the ideal harness and collar combo for your dog. Blue Paw Co. harnesses with matching collars and leashes are a great way to go. They make the perfect harness to keep your beloved dog comfortable, safe, and stylish for years of walks to come. So, leash-up, enjoy the fresh air, and happy walking! Open the PawSwap app and check out our Rewards tab for a special discount on Blue Paw Co. Download app here: https://apple.co/2Q9sZUp

Meet one of our PawSwap members in Downtown Vancouver, Stu and his pup Ruckas! Ruckus is in her Tenth revolution around the sun and is fun, playful and full of life. This feisty girl is always on a mission to live up to her name. Ruckus is a purebred red Boston Terrier born with heterochromia iridis which resulted in a golden right eye and a blue left eye. Comfort is a priority for Ruckus, she will wrap herself up in her blankets or a stolen hoodie and snooze for hours. Stu and Ruckus can... ✗ Take care of dogs while people are at work ✓ Take care of dogs on weekends ✗ Take care of dogs in the evenings or overnight ✗ Take care of dogs over holidays or when someone is on vacation Does your pup need a weekend playmate? Learn more about a typical day in the life of Ruckas... How do you and Ruckas usually start your mornings? The first noise I wake up to is usually the sound of Ruckus quietly snorting beside my bed in an effort to get my attention, she usually tries to wake me about 10 minutes before my alarm. As I get out of bed Ruckus leads me directly to the kitchen where I make my morning coffee and feed her breakfast. What does an average day look like for you two? The average day for Ruckus and I starts with a nice morning stroll if the weather is pleasant, if it is cold or rainy Ruckus would much rather stay indoors with her bones or toys. She likes to play fetch but not outside. Her favourite place to be is the beach or going for a hike up a local mountain, weather permitting of course. Are there any activities you do where your pup can't join? Ruckus comes to help me at the office every now and then if I am so lucky. (PawSwappers, help out Ruckus' Dad on the days he can't bring her to work) What do you and Ruckas get up to on weekends? The usual weekend for Ruckus and I is very much like an average day, we try to go explore and see as much of the world as possible, she has places to go and things to see. The weekend is when I often get most of my errands completed and Ruckus is more than happy to be my copilot to make sure we stay on track and get everything done as quickly as possible so she can get home for a treat or two before cozying up in her bed. What do you and Ruckus love about PawSwap? Pawswap makes it easy for Ruckus to meet new friends and find someone to hang out with if I am away! Does Stu and Ruckus sound like the perfect owner/dog duo to swap with? Add him as a friend on the PawSwap App!