Blog - Paws And Pastures Pet Care

05Sep 2025 by pawsandpastures

Farm Visits Aren’t Just for the Big Animals

Farm Visits

When most people think of farm sitting, they imagine caring for large animals, horses, cattle, or donkeys. But from my experience, farm visits are just as important for the smaller residents who keep a farm lively and full of personality. Whether it’s feeding goats, checking on chickens, or giving a pony some well-earned grooming time, the “little things” add up to peace of mind for farm owners. That’s where professional Westminster farm sitting makes all the difference. Feeding the Goats: Quirky Personalities and Breeds Goats are some of the most entertaining animals to care for. Each breed has its own quirks, and I’ve come to know them well on my farm visits. The playful Nigerian Dwarfs are always curious, sniffing at pockets to see if I’m hiding a treat. Nubians,…

18Aug 2025 by pawsandpastures

Farm Sitting in Rocky Ridge, MD: Caring for Five Lovely Mares

Farm Visits

One of the joys of offering farm sitting in Rocky Ridge, MD is getting to spend time on properties full of history, beauty, and character. Recently, I had the chance to care for five lovely mares on a picturesque farm tucked away at the end of a long country lane. The owners even drew me a map to help navigate the fields, a thoughtful detail that added to the charm of the experience. The herd was split between two pastures: two mares in one field and three in another. As someone who has always been partial to mares, I was delighted to care for this group. My responsibilities for the day included making sure each horse was in the proper pasture, checking and refreshing water, and doing a wellness check…

07Aug 2025 by pawsandpastures

From Shy to Snuggly: How I Build Trust with Nervous Pets

Pet sitting

When you’re searching for dog sitting near Mount Airy, MD, it’s not just about finding someone to feed and walk your pup, it’s about trusting someone with a member of your family. This becomes especially true when your pet is a little more reserved, anxious, or slow to warm up. Whether they’re a senior dog set in their ways or a rescue pup still learning to feel safe, my gentle, patient approach is designed to meet them exactly where they are. Every Pet Has a Story Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of caring for animals of all ages and backgrounds, many of whom arrive shy, unsure, and in need of extra reassurance. Some have been recently adopted from shelters, while others are aging companions dealing with the uncertainty…

02Aug 2025 by pawsandpastures

Why Farm Sleepover Dogs Need to Be Truly Cat-Friendly

Farm Visits

Why Farm Sleepover Dogs Need to Be Truly Cat-FriendlyRespecting the Cats Who Call the Farm Home When dogs come to stay at our farm for a cozy overnight visit, they’re stepping into a home that already belongs to two very important residents: our cats. These two farm cats are more than just passing shadows on the porch, they’re confident, curious, and completely at ease in their home territory. They’re used to the comings and goings of visiting dogs and are not likely to run and hide. In fact, they’ll often stand their ground if a dog approaches, and once they feel safe, they may even want to get to know the dog better. That’s why it’s absolutely essential that any dog staying at the farm is truly cat-friendly. What Does…

22Jul 2025 by pawsandpastures

What to Pack for Your Dog’s Daycare or Farm Stay

Farm Visits, Tips and Tricks

Helpful Tips from Your Trusted Pet Sitter in Westminster Leaving your pup in someone else's care, whether it's just for the day or for an overnight farm stay, can come with a lot of questions. As your go-to pet sitter in Westminster, I’m here to make the transition smooth, stress-free, and even fun for your dog. One of the best ways to set your pet up for a successful stay is to pack the right items. Here's a handy guide to help you prepare for daycare drop-offs or longer visits to the farm. Food & Treats Just like us, dogs feel their best when sticking to their regular diet. Please pack: Enough food for the duration of their stay (plus a little extra, just in case) Any special treats they’re…

17Jul 2025 by pawsandpastures

Basil the Basset Hound’s Farm Sleepover Adventure

Pet sitting

I recently had the pleasure of hosting the adorable Basil the Basset Hound for an overnight stay at our cozy, pet-friendly farm and what a delight she was! From the moment Basil arrived, she brought her signature low slung charm and soulful eyes to every corner of the farm. After a little time to sniff around and get her bearings, she settled in beautifully and made herself right at home. One of Basil’s favorite things? A good old-fashioned game of tug! Whether it was a rope toy or a soft plush, she lit up with enthusiasm every time we played. She’s got a surprising amount of strength packed into that squat little frame, and we had a blast going back and forth. When we weren’t playing tug, we enjoyed some…

11Jul 2025 by pawsandpastures

Farm Sleepovers: No-Kennel Boarding in Carroll County

Pet sitting

When you’re searching for a pet sitter in Carroll County, you want more than just a place to leave your dog, you want peace of mind. That’s exactly what you’ll find with our Farm Sleepovers: a cozy, no-kennel boarding experience that feels more like leaving your pet with a trusted friend or family member than a traditional boarding facility. Located on our quiet, pet-friendly farm in Union Bridge, MD, your pets will stay in a relaxed, home-like environment, far from the stress of loud, crowded kennels. We believe in no kennel boarding because we know how important it is for pets to feel safe, secure, and loved while you're away. Here’s what sets us apart:Private Stays – We only host pets from the same family at a time, ensuring your…

01Jul 2025 by pawsandpastures

A Day in the Life of a Carroll County Pet Sitter

Pet sitting

There’s no such thing as a typical day when you’re a pet sitter in Carroll County, Maryland and that’s exactly what I love about it. Each day brings new furry (and feathered!) faces, changing weather, and the steady rhythm of animal routines. From sunrise feedings to evening cuddles, here's a behind-the-scenes peek into what a day in my boots really looks like. Sunrise on the Farm: Horses, Goats, and Fresh Air The day starts early before the sun has fully crested the hills of Carroll County, I’m pulling on boots and heading out to the barn. Horses are first on the list, nickering softly for breakfast. I fill feed buckets, check water troughs, and toss hay with a rhythm that comes from years of care. Next stop? The goat pen.…

29Jun 2025 by pawsandpastures

Snuggles, Naps, and Personalized Attention

Cat Sitting, Farm Visits, Pet sitting

When you're away from home, your pets deserve more than just the basics, they deserve thoughtful, compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. That’s the heart of what I offer with my pet sitting services in Carroll County, Maryland: personalized attention, trust, and a whole lot of love. As a lifelong animal lover, I understand that no two pets are the same. Some crave energetic playtime, while others just want to nap in their favorite sunspot with a comforting presence nearby. My goal is always the same: to make your pet feel safe, loved, and at home while you're away. Care That Meets Them Where They Are Every pet in my care gets individualized attention. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a long sniff-filled walk, a slow brush-out for a…

20Jun 2025 by pawsandpastures

Your Vacation, Their Staycation: What Pets Experience While You’re Away

Pet sitting

When you pack your bags for a well-deserved getaway, your pets deserve a vacation of their own, too, one filled with familiar comforts, fresh air, and plenty of tail-wagging joy. That’s exactly what I offer with my pet sitting services in Westminster, Maryland, a true staycation experience tailored to your pet’s needs, personality, and daily routine. Comfort, Not Kennels: Why In-Home and Farm-Based Pet Sitting is Different Unlike crowded boarding facilities, my approach to pet sitting in Westminster, Maryland is calm, quiet, and focused on each individual animal. Whether I’m caring for your dog, cat, or a barn full of animals, every visit is built around what your pet loves most. This isn’t just care, it’s connection, routine, and fun. Tailored Walks and Outdoor Adventures For dogs, daily walks are…