A BLOG FOR CHARLESTON PET PARENTS 

If you’ve ever come home to find your plants knocked over, a mug shattered, or your cat sitting smugly on the kitchen counter like he pays rent, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, more than once, with my cat, Charlie, who has perfected the art of controlled chaos. Here in Charleston, many indoor cats struggle with boredom, especially during hot summers or rainy weeks when the windows stay closed and the wildlife is just out of reach. Charlie’s always been a curious guy, but a

Bringing home a shelter dog is a leap of faith, and the first several weeks are often a mix of sweet moments and pure chaos. When Maggie joined our family after nearly three months at a local Charleston shelter, we knew she would need time to unwind and understand that this really was her new home. Now that we have made it through the first month together, we are finally seeing her relax, settle, and let her true personality shine. This is an honest look at how our Charleston

Bringing a new dog home is one of life’s greatest joys. But let’s be honest, it is also a big shift, especially for your new pup and any pets already living in your home. A thoughtful introduction helps everyone feel safe, secure, and comfortable right from the start. Whether you are adopting a puppy, fostering a rescue, or welcoming a second or third dog into your pack, these seven tips will help create a smooth transition for your new dog, your current pets, and your entire

Finding pet care you can truly trust is harder than it should be. You’re not just hiring someone to let the dog out or top off the food and water, you’re trusting them with a member of your family. And in a city like Charleston, where options are plenty but consistency isn’t, that decision can feel like a leap of faith. If you’ve ever felt uneasy booking a pet sitter or struggled to find a dependable dog walker, you’re not alone. When you’re juggling a full calendar, a high-e

Set Your Pets Up for Success with a Calm, Confident Introduction Adding a kitten to your home? Get ready for big energy, adorable chaos, and a few adjustment moments along the way. Whether you're welcoming your very first feline or expanding your existing feline family, introductions matter.  A calm, thoughtful approach sets the tone for trust and long-term harmony between your new kitten and your resident pet(s). Here’s how to help your pets start strong and avoid unnecessar

If your dog loses their mind every time they see a stroller, skateboard, or schnauzer, it’s not just frustrating—it’s a sign they need better socialization! Socialization isn’t a “nice to have”; it’s a must-have. It’s the secret to raising a calm, confident, well-behaved pup who doesn’t turn every outing into a circus. Especially here in Charleston, where patios, parks, and dog-friendly events are basically a lifestyle! So how do you raise a dog who can handle it all? Whether

If your dog hates fireworks, you’re not alone. And you’re not overreacting by preparing ahead. Here in Charleston, 4th of July celebrations rarely stay confined to a single night. Fireworks start days in advance and often continue well into the weekend. From neighborhood cul-de-sacs to downtown rooftops, the booms can happen anywhere, at any time. For pets, that unpredictability is terrifying. Every year, shelters across the country see a spike in lost pets over the July 4th

A Charleston Pet Parent’s Guide to Smooth, Stress-Free Travel When it’s time to head out of town, whether for a weekend getaway or a longer trip, you want your pets to feel secure, comfortable, and cared for. That’s where your professional pet sitter comes in. At Paws Up!, we’re here to be your pet’s trusted companion while you’re away, but a smooth visit starts with a little preparation. Here’s how to get everything ready before your sitter arrives. 1. Update Your Pet Profil

When Charleston’s summer heat hits hard, outdoor adventures with your dog can quickly become unsafe. But that doesn’t mean your pup has to be bored or restless inside! With a little creativity, you can turn those hot days into enriching indoor experiences that keep your dog happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated. Here are our favorite games and activities to try when it’s just too hot to head outdoors plus essential summer safety tips for local pet parents. Fun Indoor Dog Ga