A BLOG FOR CHARLESTON PET PARENTS 

Many pet parents worry about heat and hot pavement during the summer, but sunburn is another important risk. Learn which dogs are most vulnerable, how to recognize the signs of sunburn, and practical ways to protect your dog while enjoying the outdoors.

Hot, humid summer days don’t cancel your meetings, clear your calendar, or shorten your commute. Your dog may still need a bathroom break, attention, movement, and enrichment in the middle of the day, even when the usual neighborhood walk no longer makes sense. So what actually happens during a dog walk when the heat and humidity settle in? The short answer is that the visit adapts. On especially hot days, that may mean choosing a shadier route, slowing the pace, allowing mor

If you work long hours, whether you're commuting to the office or working from home, you know how difficult it can be to give your dog the midday attention they need. Regular dog walks are not just about exercise. They also play an important role in your dog’s mental stimulation, routine, behavior, and overall well-being. That’s where a professional dog walker can make a huge difference. At PAWS UP!, our midday dog walking services help Charleston dogs stay active, mentally e

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

It’s tempting to think your independent kitty will be just fine on their own for a couple of days. After all, they nap 18 hours a day, right? Just leave out a little extra food and water, scoop the box before you leave, and they’ll hardly notice you’re gone . . . right? Not. So. Fast. While cats may seem low-maintenance compared to their canine counterparts, the truth is that even short absences can cause big stress for your feline friend, and health or behavioral issues can

Why Sniffing Matters More Than Miles Dogs experience the world through scent, not sight. Their sense of smell is tens of thousands of times stronger than ours. Where you see a tree, your dog smells a detailed story of who’s been there and what they were doing. Sniffing provides: Mental enrichment: Sniffing challenges your dog’s brain in ways physical movement alone cannot. Stress relief: It lowers heart rate and helps dogs self-soothe. Confidence building: Especially helpful