Pet Sitting Tips

Mindy on July 29, 2011

Arranging a “Staycation” for the
Other Members of Your Family

For many people, at some point during the summer months, they’ll be taking a vacation. Chances are, they’ll be looking for fun in another state or even another country. And they’ll be taking the kids, too, and also other family members… but in most cases, the pets have to be left behind.

While Fluffy and Fido are considered part of the family, cats and dogs are not welcome at many hotels, attractions and resort destinations in the U.S., nor do most pets travel well, particularly if you’re going long distances. For them, staying at home is ideal, but who’s going to take care of your pets when you’re not there?

Two options spring to mind: boarding at a kennel (or if your pooch or kitty deserves even more pampering, a luxury pet resort) or finding a pet sitter.

Most people ask a neighbor or friend to baby-sit the fur kids while you’re away. However, some have to hire a professional pet sitter. If you don’t already have a pet sitter, the best way to find one is through a personal recommendation by a person you know and trust. However, if no one you know can recommend a sitter, how do you find someone you can trust with your spare house key, your valuables, and your pets’ well being?

You can check the National Association of Pet Sitters’ website, an organization for certified, professional pet sitters. There’s also Pet Sitters International, another professional organization. And Pet-Sitter.biz is a registry bringing owners and professional pet sitters together. There are other on-line options; choose the one that’s right for you. Or check your local listings such as newspaper advertisements or the Yellow Pages for pet sitters in your area.

Remember, before you hire a pet sitter, you must make time to conduct phone interviews, home meetings, and checking references, so plan ahead.

And don’t forget to thank your pet sitter – whether your pets have been cared for by a pro or a friend – with a “thank you” greeting card from Greeting Card Universe. Our selection of fun, funny or sincere cards will send your message of gratitude with a smile!

What Are People Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“After searching at two stores for a mutual birthdaycard, it occured to me…duh! I can order one from Greeting Card Universe. I came home, found exactly what I was looking for on-line immediately, and had the card delivered within days. So don’t knock yourself out spending time and gasoline going all over town for that special card. Sit back and order it right here.” Gayle – Jul 27, 2011

Life’s a Beach

Mindy on July 22, 2011

Summertime = Fun in the Sun

For many people, that includes throwing a beach party bash! But what if you don’t live near the ocean? You can still put on a beach-themed party in your backyard or your living room. Here are some ideas for enjoying the flavor of the beach without getting sand in your shorts:

Serve the kind of food you’d bring to a beach picnic, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled corn on the cob, baked potatoes, seafood (shellfish like clams, oysters, mussels, and crab or lobster) or fish, meat and/or vegetable kabobs, fruit, and snow cones. You’ll find some recipe ideas here.

Decorate in the theme using inflatable palm trees and beach balls, leis, straw hats, tropical or beach print tableware, paper lanterns and garlands, balloons and favors.  If the party’s in your backyard, define the area with tiki torches to create the right atmosphere.

And finally, don’t forget the beach party invitations! Set the tone by inviting your guests with a one-of-a-kind invitation from Greeting Card Universe. Stay cool in the heat of planning your party – we make it easy with our choice of fun, fruity and fabulous cards.

BREAKING NEWS: Greeting Card Universe joins with Nickelodeon’s ParentsConnect to bring you a summer camp themed contest! Check the site for details – you could win 20 free GCU card credits!

What are people saying about Greeting Card Universe?
“I usually design my own cards, but when my daughter had to euthanize her lab Copper that she had ever since she was a pup I found it hard to get my mind together for just the right card. I knew this card had to be really special. My daughter and Copper had been through a lot together. She was my daughter littler girl. Copper had been a cancer survivor but finally old age and the ability to walk let to the my daughter’s decision for what was best for Copper. As I was searching I found your website. And I found just the right card I was looking for and was able to personalize it just for them. My daughter loved it and so did I. I would use these cards again in a heartbeat. Thank you!” Diane – July 18, 2011

Staying Cool on a Cruise

Mindy on July 15, 2011

Taking a cruise on your vacation has become more popular than ever. These days, you can find a cruise liner and itinerary to fit every individual, family and lifestyle, taking you to exotic destinations or fun ports of call around the world.

To make sure your cruise vacation stays fun, not frustrating, here are five tips for Staying Cool on a Cruise:

  • Bring a supply of aspirin (or Tylenol), anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medicine, sea sickness patches, decongestant, cough syrup or cold tablets (if your destination has a cold climate), sunblock, as well as extra batteries for all electronic devices. These things are available on board the ship, but they’re expensive.
  • Don’t forget to notify your credit card companies (including your bank if you plan on using a debit card) that you’ll be traveling, otherwise the company might freeze your cards due to “suspicious activity.”
  • If you’re taking children along, don’t assume the cruise includes babysitting/child care services. Ask before you schedule your trip. Bring the kids’ favorite books, games, video games, etc. to combat boredom if they have to stay any length of time in the cabin.
  • Save suitcase space by packing basic, neutral colored outfits that can be easily accessorized and worn more than once. If you plan to go on excursions, or attend formal dinners or themed events, bring appropriate clothing.
  • Carry all toiletries on-board with you. Luggage gets stacked when it’s being loaded into the ship. If your suitcase is on the bottom, there’s a possibility the bottles will break and make a mess.

More tips for making sure your cruise is enjoyable can be found at Cruise Knowledge.

If you know someone who’s going on a cruise, wish them “Bon Voyage” by sending a greeting card to let them know they’ll be missed while they’re away, or to wish them good luck and oodles of fun. Planning a Bon Voyage party? At Greeting Card Universe, we’ve got the right invitations to make your farewell get-together a smash!

What Are People Saying About Greeting Card Universe:
“Amazing quality, price and timing. I ordered on the Sunday before 4th July Monday. My invitations arrived on Wed. July 6th. I was so very pleased with the entire order beginning to end.” Marlene – July 13th, 2011

Le Quatorze Juillet

Mindy on July 8, 2011

Or Bastille Day in English.

Also known as La Fête Nationale (or National Celebration), Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille (a medieval prison and fortress) which took place in Paris on July 14, 1789, a milestone event on the road to the French Revolution, as well as the Fête de la Fédération in 1790 – the one year anniversary of the popular uprising and storming of the Bastille, and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, which did not last long.

Bastille Day did not become an official national holiday in France until 1880, when politician Benjamin Raspail proposed a law in May. The law was adopted by the Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) and approved by the Sénat, and proclaimed on July 6th.

“Do not forget that behind this 14 July, where victory of the new era over the ancien régime was bought by fighting, do not forget that after the day of 14 July 1789, there was the day of 14 July 1790. … This day cannot be blamed for having shed a drop of blood, for having divided the country. It was the consecration of unity of France. … If some of you might have scruples against the first 14 July, they certainly hold none against the second. Whatever difference which might part us, something hovers over them, it is the great images of national unity, which we all desire, for which we would all stand, willing to die if necessary.”
—–Henri Martin, Chairman of the Sénat, 1880

Bastille Day is celebrated every year around the globe on July 14th. In France itself, the annual and very popular Bastille Day Military Parade held in Paris and broadcast on French television, is the world’s oldest and largest such event. Greeting Card Universe help you take part in the celebration by offering an uncommon selection of Bastille Day greeting cards to exchange with family and friends, so you all can enjoy a truly bonne fête!

Dog and Cat Safety on Independence Day

Mindy on July 1, 2011

As any pet owner knows, our cats and dogs don’t handle the Fourth of July well, especially when it comes to firecrackers. But did you know there are other hazards on Independence Day that may end with you and your pet in the emergency vet’s office? Just like kids, your pets need a little extra care and attention. As a responsible pet owner, you want to do the best for the furry members of your family.

Here are three tips that will help you and your dog or cat enjoy the a safer and happier holiday.

Never use fireworks around pets. This sounds like a no-brainer, but some people don’t realize just how strong a dog’s chase instinct can be. Mr. Fluffy only needs to jump on that one cherry bomb you tossed, and he’s in big trouble. In addition, an excited dog might jump up and try to grab a sparker out of your hand, resulting in severe burns to eyes, nose, mouth and even paws. Cats might be frightened and run away. Keep pets indoors, please.

Never leave fireworks laying around unsupervised: Unused fireworks also pose a danger. If your dog or cat chews on them, he’ll be ingesting poisons like arsenic and potassium  nitrate.

Never take your pet to a public fireworks display, even on a leash: If you think your dog finds a crowded, noisy and extremely loud public area as much fun as you do, think again.  A terrified dog reacts on instinct, and may run away or bite. Leave Mr. Fluffy at home; he’ll be much happier.

You’ll find other important tips about pet safety on the Fourth of July on the ASPCA web site.

At Greeting Card Universe, we have a large collection of Fourth of July cards, some featuring pets and animals of many kinds for you to exchange with family (except Mr. Fluffy, but only because he can’t read) and all your friends. We hope you have a bang on Independence day, and stay safe!