Blog

Updated: Nov 28, 2023 Offleash’d Names Terry James as CEO The Social App for Pet People Kicks Off the New Year with a Company Revamp SEATTLE, Washington, January 17, 2023 – Offleash’d, Inc., the Seattle-based social relationship app for pet lovers, is ready to accomplish big things in 2023. Ahead of their highly anticipated Los Angeles launch, Offleash’d has made internal changes that will set the stage for a successful year. Manish Methai, the co-Founder of Offleash’d, will be stepping into the roles of Chief Information Officer. With his extensive expertise in the tech space, Methai will be an invaluable asset in keeping Offleash’d at the forefront of technological development. “Change is a natural part of growth, and I am confident that these changes will help Offleash’d continue to grow and develop along the lines of our mission. I look forward to Terry moving into this role and taking us to the top!” – Manish Methai Transitioning from his role as COO to Chief Executive Officer, Terry James is ready for the job. Bringing over twenty years of experience as a business owner and CEO of several real estate companies, James is committed to creating a seamless bridge between the tech and pet industries by pushing boundaries and pursuing excellence. “As we embark on 2023, I’m honored to lead Offleash’d and our team as CEO, especially as we move forward with our launch in LA and across the country. Leaning on more than two decades of experience as a successful business owner, I will work to guide Offleash’d towards an even brighter future. We’ve got some big plans to make a positive impact in our communities, and we are looking forward to welcoming all the new pet people who will soon be part of our growing Offleash’d family!” – Terry James These small yet significant changes represent the continued commitment of the Offleash’d team to the company’s mission, channeling the strengths and varied skills of each individual in order to better serve the growing community of users.

Updated: Apr 10, 2023 For those who possess the entrepreneurial spirit, life is seen as a series of endless possibilities. They see a world ripe with potential, but to create something from the ground up calls for someone with a fire in their belly to surmount seemingly impossible odds. Those with the entrepreneurial spirit see those odds and do not shy away, because the only outcome they will accept is success. Entrepreneurs of color are no strangers to beating the odds. They face a world that for centuries has been designed to keep them from achieving their own success, and yet every day, we see them breaking down barriers in the pursuit of excellence. In honor of Black History Month, we want to highlight the significant contributions of black entrepreneurs and creators who are making huge impacts in the world. With two men of color at the helm and a senior leadership team comprised of amazing women, Offleash’d is uniquely positioned to champion individuals from historically marginalized communities as they lead their industries and communities forward. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are three major tenets of our mission, and we strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all people to form genuine connections no matter their race or gender, starting with the members of our team. We are so excited to kick off our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion series (also known as DEI) by introducing the new CEO of Offleash’d, Terry James! With over two decades of experience as a business owner, Terry has made a career operating successful enterprises in highly competitive fields. After kicking off his career as a licensed financial advisor with Morgan Stanley and UBS Financial Services, Terry transitioned into real estate by founding his own mortgage financing firm and later starting his eponymous business, the James Real Estate Group. Our company is on the precipice of achieving ambitious goals, and no one is better suited to lead us toward success like Terry James. O: When you first heard about the idea for Offleash’d, what made you want to get involved? TJ: I had been a pet lover and owner nearly my entire life. I was so intrigued by the idea of being able to blend my passion for pets with a business focused on helping people forge new relationships and build community. When my research into the pet industry unearthed all of the possibilities for a life-changing platform that could benefit potentially millions of pet people, I simply knew I had to be a part of this journey. O: You have spent the last twenty years as a business owner in the competitive real estate market. What important lessons have you learned from that field that you are implementing with Offleash’d? TJ: I think the most important thing I’ve learned in business is perseverance. I don’t allow myself to get too high with the success or too low with the challenges. I try to remain balanced and focused on the goals set out in front of us. I work every day to get a little closer to accomplishing those goals by breaking them down into smaller objectives that can be accomplished in a shorter amount of time. Each milestone accomplished moves us a little closer to accomplishing the larger goal set out in the beginning. That way huge goals seem obtainable and within reach. O: Now that you have officially stepped into the role of CEO, what are your biggest goals for this company in 2023? TJ: We have a number of goals that we want to accomplish in 2023, the largest of which is having a successful launch in California. There are so many pet lovers that live in this area and the weather makes it really conducive for people to connect in-person and outdoors. I am so excited to help bring Offleash’d to Southern California! Other upcoming projects include launching our own apparel line for pet lovers and engaging with our Offleash’d community via our own podcast, where we can encourage our users to share their stories. I really want people to feel like Offleash’d is a safe and inclusive community for everyone and sharing those stories is a way to help people feel more connected to one another. Finally, we will be rolling out many new features on our app including a Groups Feature and Events platform providing our community with even more ways to engage with each other, whether in person or socially through our app. Our future at Offleash’d is extremely bright and I am honored to be leading us as we continue to grow. O: As we celebrate Black History Month, we seek to amplify black voices, share black stores, and champion black innovators. How has your personal journey as a black man in business shaped your approach to stepping into this new leadership position with Offleash’d? TJ: I consider myself a student of history. I’m well aware of the sacrifices of those that came before me and the struggles they endured so that I could have the opportunities I have had to build businesses and lead others. There are countless instances where extreme courage was required as I may have been the first to break certain barriers in an industry or workplace. However, my success is built on the backs of those that come before me. This wealth of historical knowledge coupled with my own personal experience as a leader will be a critical asset in helping Offleash’d push the pet industry forward on issues of diversity and inclusivity in a rapidly changing demographic environment. O: What advice do you have for other BIPOC entrepreneurs? TJ: Persevere. Don’t ever let short-term challenges distract you from accomplishing the goals that you have set for yourself or your business. There will always be obstacles set before you. It’s how you respond in the face of adversity that will be the ultimate determinant of success. Be kind and show grace in the face of adversity, but never forget that

Updated: Aug 19, 2023 Black History Month offers us the chance not only to celebrate the triumphs of the black community but to reflect on the long journey it has taken for them to get to this point. Theirs is a history of pain and perseverance, of fear and the fight for equal rights. These factors have shaped the black community and left indelible scars on the human psyche, but if there is one thing to take away from this dark chapter of our society, it is the amazing ability to take that which was used to oppress and control citizens of their race and make it their own. Unfortunately, the history of interactions between animals and members of the black community has not always been one of companionship. For many years, man’s best friend was often used in brutal tactics to control and instill fear in people of color. Fear has been a powerful tool in mitigating the fraught relationship between black people and animals, particularly dogs. Long before their role as household pets, dogs have most often been utilized as hunting companions and for protection. The Civil War era offers one of the more poignant examples of when skills originally trained for survival were turned against our fellow men. Slaveowners in America would often use dogs to keep their slaves in line or hunt them down should they try to run away. Fast forward 100 years, to dogs being used to exert aggressive force on Civil Rights protestors. An innocent animal has been forged into an instrument of hate and violence, leading generations to become conditioned with fear. However, there are many in the black community who choose to nurture beautiful bonds with animals despite horrific incidents in the past. Since the early 20th century, more and more black households started claiming dogs and cats as their own. For some, owning a pet was a way to emulate a higher standard of living like what they saw occur in the white communities, a chance to be seen as equal. For others, these animals simply became part of the family. Social and economic inequity continues to affect how pets interact and thrive within the black community. While there has been a steady growth in pet ownership over the years in black households, they still have some of the lowest ownership rates of any racial demographic. This can be attributed to the fact that BIPOC people make up nearly 24% of the poverty population as of 2019, without proper access to pet healthcare services or the financial freedom to provide for both an animal and their family. Luckily, there are those who are fighting to make basic necessities and services for pet owners more accessible, so that every person has an equal opportunity to experience the joy and unconditional love that animals can offer. While veterinary medicine remains a predominantly white field, more and more black vets are discovering their future in this career and bringing their services to neighborhoods that need it most. This in turn helps expose younger generations to possible options for their future they may have never considered simply because they had never seen it in action. “I grew up thinking I was going to be one of the first Black veterinarians because I had never seen any,” says Dr. Tierra Price in an interview with TIME magazine in 2020. When those in marginalized communities are given the opportunity to see people who look like them thriving in interesting and different occupations, it can kickstart a cultural revolution with the power to change the course of so many lives. By celebrating the successes of those around us, we create an inclusive, collaborative environment where everyone can achieve greatness. Offleash’d aims to inspire our users to foster these safe spaces where each person has a seat at the table. Join us in honoring Black History Month as we continue to amplify black voices and stories in our local and online communities.

Updated: Aug 19, 2023 Everyone deserves to be the star of their own show. In the age of social media, when we are constantly inundated with curated images meant to inspire awe and envy, it is easy to feel like we are merely supporting characters in someone else’s movie. But the time has come to flip the script and claim your place at the center of your own narrative. It’s time to channel that Main Character Energy. Coined by Gen Z TikTokers, Main Character Energy is usually defined as “someone living their best life, exuding confidence and poise. They are choosing to put themselves first and solidify themselves as the main character of their story.” MCE is often misunderstood as a form of narcissism, simply because it encourages people to demand attention when generations of conditioning has taught us (especially women) to shy away from the spotlight in the name of humility. But recently there has been a cultural shift that reframes this phenomenon in a more positive light. Rather than looking at MCE as self-centered, a new wave of social media users are seeing it as a form of self-love. For many Gen Z and millennials, embracing MCE is about prioritizing their own happiness and making time for themselves. It is in fact proving to be an interesting study of the effects of mindfulness and manifestation, as well as the mental benefits that come from romanticizing your own life. By living intentionally and embracing the mundane things in life, people are taking an active role in crafting their own narratives, thereby creating the life they envision for themselves. “Putting yourself at the forefront of your life can be a really wonderful thing, especially when your life experiences have been marked by invalidation, dismissal, or feeling like you’re ‘not good enough’ or ‘unworthy,’” says psychotherapist Meghan Watson. Many of us are no strangers to these feelings of unworthiness as we scroll through seemingly perfect images posted by influencers and compare what they choose to present to the world with our own ‘mundane’ lives. Channeling our own Main Character Energy is a way to take back the control that has been eroded in the vacuum of social media. But it’s not going to happen on its own. We need to take an active role in the pursuit of our own happiness. Offleash’d is in the business of relationships, but the relationship that is most often overlooked is the one we have with ourselves. Building up our self-confidence and pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones are necessary steps in the journey toward truly loving ourselves. Whitney Goodman, a licensed psychotherapist and author, spoke with SELF magazine about the concept of self-love, reminding us all that “we often define love in this fairytale sense where everything needs to be perfect and then apply that same pressure to self-love, which isn’t realistic.” Just like with any kind of relationship, it takes work, and it takes acceptance. A survey conducted by YPulse found that more than half of respondents who think of themselves as the main character of their lives actually feel like it has helped them be their best selves. They feel more confident, more appreciative of what they have, and over a third of those surveyed stated that this mindset has helped them discover their passion. What if channeling our own MCE is a step towards creating a more fulfilling life? Maybe it’s the little nudge we need to finally pursue that dream career. Maybe it’s a mental shift in viewing ourselves with a little less judgment and little more self-love. Maybe it’s that moment when we give ourselves permission to post that photo, to take that trip, to send that text. Many of us have heard the saying, “Confidence is sexy” at one point or another. Though usually phrased in terms of appealing to the male gaze, the underlying message of this saying rings true. We as humans find ourselves drawn to people who seem to have it all together, an ingrained behavior hearkening back to humans seeking out the strongest warriors and following the most charismatic leaders all in a desperate bid for survival. Confidence is appealing and it’s hard not to be drawn to those who believe in themselves (as long as we don’t cross that very fine line into egotism and toxic narcissistic tendencies – it’s all about balance, after all). So, consider this post as a sign to start living out your own main character storyline. Give yourself permission to prioritize your needs so that you may better live your life, and in doing so, become the best version of yourself for those you care most for. Because only when we love and accept ourselves in all our beauty and for all our flaws can we truly create deep and lasting relationships with those around us.

Updated: Aug 19, 2023 Mother Theresa once said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” The nature of women’s history is summarized in these powerful words. For too many years, women have been relegated to the sidelines of life simply due to their gender, making ripples in the hopes to effect real change. Today, we see the results of their determination across so many fields of thought and industry, and this Women’s History Month, we want to honor the contributions women have made to push the pet industry and the world of animal welfare forward. Offleash’d is in the business of relationships- we understand the significant impact that pets can have on people, and vice versa, and who better understands the nature of these relationships than Dr. Erika Friedmann? A pioneer in her field, Dr. Friedmann has built her career on the study of anthrozoology, which focuses on the interaction between humans and animals. Her landmark study on the health effects of pet ownership changed the landscape of both the healthcare and pet industries, broadening the research in animal-assisted therapies so that more people can find help and healing through their beloved pets. More than 100 years before Dr. Friedmann published her findings in the 1980s, Caroline Earle White was breaking down barriers in a time when women had few rights and little influence. Mrs. White was determined to make her voice heard, especially for those who could not speak for themselves, and along with 30 other passionate women, Mrs. White formed the Women’s Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, later known as the Women’s Humane Society, to help change the way people viewed the animals that served them daily. While their initial goal was simply to hire people to “inspect horses for harness sores and to make sure they were not beaten, exhausted, or lame while working, the enterprise grew to include cases of abuse and cruelty to dogs and other animals”. Despite her significant contributions, these women were denied positions of leadership on the board of the SPCA simply because of their gender. It would take several decades for women to gain deserved recognition for their efforts, but the actions of Mrs. White and all who came before paved the way for the women of today to make a real difference in the pet industry. Enter Jamie Migdal, an entrepreneur with 25 years of experience building several different successful pet companies, including FetchFind, which was created to solve what Migdal identifies as the most important challenges facing the pet industry – “Onboarding and training pet care professionals affordable, quickly and effectively while providing access to affordable and trustworthy business resources from companies that understand the unique characteristics of the pet industry.” Access to resources and sufficient education can make all the difference when it comes to caring for ourselves and our pets, and thanks to Migdal’s innovation, pet owners and pet healthcare professionals are better connected to in turn better provide for our furry friends. Today, Migdal sits on the advisory boards of several women-owned businesses and is active in her support for fellow entrepreneurs. This is just a small sample of the women who are making moves every day, laying the groundwork for future generations to pursue bigger, more ambitious dreams. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before, the women who fought against oppression in all its forms in order to be heard. This Women’s History Month (and every month!), we honor those who came before, celebrate those around us, and recognize our own amazing achievements!

Updated: Aug 19, 2023 There are some who say there is no such thing as luck, but whether it be by coincidence or good karma, it is the nature of human beings to seek a reason for why things happen. Perhaps it has more to do with our mindset than some cosmic workings of the universe. In recent years, manifestation has gone from a vague term associated with the metaphysical to a near-verifiable method for changing one’s outlook and therefore circumstance. As with most things these days, we can thank social media for the wide reach of trends and their rapid growth. One such fad is known as the Lucky Girl Syndrome, a hashtag gone viral thanks to tik tok influencer, Laura Galebe. In her viral video, Galebe states that she is one of the luckiest people she knows and that she expects great things to happen to her, ergo they do. Of course, there has been backlash in response to Galebe’s video, stating that his way of thinking is delusional and an example of privilege, but the underlying premise of Galebe’s lucky girl syndrome comes down to shifting our mindset, a powerful tool used by psychologists every day. “When we tell ourselves that we’re lucky, the brain starts to look for examples to confirm that belief,” says psychologist Dr. Susan Albers. “And because our brain likes to be right, if we tell ourselves that we’re lucky, that part of the brain is going to start filtering in the information that backs that up.” However, unfounded or irrational optimism can do more harm than good. It’s like when your knee hurts but you run a race anyway, hoping against evidence that things will be ok. There is the chance that nothing bad will happen and you can run another day, but the pain is a signal from your body that something is not right, and no amount of hope and manifestation is going to change that. In this way, it is important to practice manifestation with a grain of salt, understanding that hoping something will happen will not necessarily make it so, but more importantly, changing your outlook is only half the work. In order to bring about real change, luck really doesn’t have much to do with it. It comes down to how willing you are to work and make that dream or goal a reality. There are simple things we can do in our everyday life that can help manifest that lucky feeling. 1. Be open to new things. It can be easy to get stuck in a rut as we go about our daily routines. The best way to bring luck into your life is to open yourself up to opportunities, even if it forces you out of your comfort zone. Be curious and willing to learn, and good things will happen for you. 2. Broaden your network. “One of the fastest and best ways to garner more luck is to put yourself out there and meet more people, because people bring connections, and connections bring opportunity.” From your social circle to professional connections, meeting new people is a great way to follow the advice in Step 1 above and enhance your perspective by hearing about other people’s experiences. 3. Accept the setbacks. It is the nature of humans to be fallible. Accept the fact that we all will fail at something at some point in life and develop an action plan. Those who are lucky are not ones who have never failed, they are the ones who get back up when they’ve fallen and found a new solution to pursuing their goal. Our mindset continues to be a very powerful tool in creating change. Those who go through life with the belief that the world is against them, that no matter how hard they work, they will not have success, tend to be “unlucky”. This fatalistic way of thinking can affect your actions, closing you off from the opportunity to pursue success and feel lucky. It is based on the law of assumption, which is the belief that should a person believe something is true, that concept becomes a reality. According to manifestation coach Juliette Kristine Connor, people can train their mind’s reticular activating system, “the system in your brain that filters out unnecessary information so the important things can get through and it decides what is necessary based on what you are focusing on and your beliefs. So, if you believe things are always working out for you, your RAS will keep finding ways to reaffirm this.” Through the marriage of positive thinking and intentional action, the lucky mindset can produce real results. The power of optimism has been studied and proven effective several times over, from improving our physical health to strengthening our relationships with others. Changing your mindset is not always easy; sometimes the world is a dark place. Sometimes the circumstances in one’s life make it hard to see past the negative. But so much stems from the way we look at the world, affecting how we interact with others and how we treat ourselves. Creating our own luck starts with creating space for positivity to flourish and for opportunities to grow.

Updated: Aug 19, 2023 For most pet owners, pets are like members of the family. They are more than the guard dogs and mousers of generations past; today’s pets play a more emotional role, offering companionship and comfort. We at Offleash’d understand the special bond between animals and humans and how those relationships affect our health and our connections with others. For the millennial generation in particular, pets are not just filling these familial roles – in some instances, they’re replacing them. To better understand the relationship between millennials and their pets, we need to first examine the nature of millennials themselves. For starters, according to data published by the CDC, birth rates in the United States have been declining in recent years, reaching a record low in 2020. Millennials, sometimes teased as the Childless Generation, figure heavily in these statistics. There are several factors that contribute to this decline, from the increase of women in higher-paying jobs – thus altering the face of the nuclear family unit that has persisted for generations – to the economic insecurity brought on as a result of the 2008 recession and later the Covid-19 pandemic. The millennial relationship to money is strained as they face the reality of making a basic living while facing some of the highest inflation rates of any generation. This has led many millennials to put off standard adulthood milestones, such as owning a home and starting a family. For some, it’s a decision based on external factors – they don’t want to raise a child in the world’s current conditions (pandemics, climate crisis, etc.) or they don’t feel there are enough resources available to help them raise a child, such as affordable health and childcare. For others, it’s a shift in priorities. Millennials are known to be an individualistic generation focused on self-actualization and advancement, prioritizing their career, education and freedom. The act of settling down into family life can be seen as the antithesis to these values. While millennials may not be ready to have children of their own, this hasn’t stopped them from becoming loving caretakers of Earth’s cutest critters. According to Forbes, millennials make up the largest percentage of current pet owners in the United States at 33%, followed by Gen X at 25% and Boomers at 24%. By staying single longer and delaying the plunge into family life, pets offer a way to fill the void of intimacy, in essence becoming like surrogate children. As the second largest spenders on pet related products behind Gen Z, millennials are willing to dedicate significant funds to the care of their furbabies, much like how one would provide for a child. A focus on healthy living and eco-conscious values has made millennials a major player in the pet industry, as they opt for more luxury accessories, sustainably made toys and bedding or organic pet food made with fresh ingredients. This motivation to spend more on quality products comes down in part to visibility. Millennials grew up in tandem with the growth of social networking platforms, making them not only technologically adept, but comfortable sharing curated aspects of their lives to a sphere to strangers. They are more willing to buy products through affiliate links that are promoted by their favorite influencer and in turn share their love for certain products to their own followers via paid and unpaid ads. Companies are even partnering with pet influencers, capitalizing on the high engagement rates that pet-centric social media accounts pull in across the board. For the millennial generation, it’s nothing but the best for their pets – and they want the world to know it. This trend of delaying parenthood (or avoiding it altogether) can have lasting effects not just on the economy, but on the culture of our society as well as priorities shift, and the fields of science and medicine continue to evolve. Faced with potentially more time and more opportunities, people have found the freedom to create a life for themselves that bucks the traditional model. Millennials are reframing old narratives, turning stereotypes into trending lifestyles. They are showing the world that you can live in a way that satisfies your dreams and goals without comprising loving connections. The role that animals play in our lives is continuously changing to meet the changing needs of the world, and millennials are greeting this new approach to family life with open arms!

Updated: Aug 3, 2023 To make it in the world, one must be willing to hustle. Success is born from hard work and determination, but even the most tireless efforts do not always produce the desired result. For many in society, success is defined as keeping a roof over one’s head, providing for one’s family and securing a future for the next generation. But to pursue the American Dream, time and energy must be sacrificed in the form of side hustles, the work we take on in those few precious hours of the day after our scheduled “nine to five” ends. In this mindset, we are often spread too thin, trying to accomplish too much. As society faces a potential cost-of-living crisis, it’s no secret why people are always hustling – It’s a matter of survival. But the threat of burnout is looming. The concept of the side hustle is not a new idea, and as we navigate a post-pandemic world, these part time jobs are more prevalent than ever. Side hustles are not only a source of extra income- they can be a way to explore passions and hobbies or gain valuable work experience. But what is the price of this hustle? To have the opportunity to pursue one’s passion and turn it into profit is part of what it means to be living the American Dream, but for many, it is just another job taken out of desperation to make ends meet. Either way, the side hustle takes up hours in the day one might normally devote to relaxing after a long day of work, spending time with family or even pursuing avenues of higher education in order to better one’s circumstances. All of this can then become a drain on our time, manifesting in a decline in our health. Burnout, the physical or mental collapse caused by workplace stress, is recognized as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization. It is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, negativity or mental distance and a general decrease in productivity. While not classified as a medical condition, burnout does in fact follow a set of stages that track the overall degradation of health and wellness, where pushing ourselves to work harder can result in neglecting our own personal needs. This in turn can lead to withdrawal from friends and family, behavioral changes and depression. In recent years, there has been a palpable shift in the perception of mental health. More people are willing to share their stories of their own mental health challenges leading more companies to initiate changes to their business models in order prioritize the emotional and mental wellbeing of their employees. From implementing hybrid models that allow employees to work from home on a more flexible schedule to providing access to counseling and other resources, businesses are addressing the stigma of mental health as a personal issue and recognizing their own role in the high turnover rates and decreased productivity of their employees along with other key performance indicators. If you are starting to feel like a burnout is on the way, there are ways to help mitigate the effects. When possible, restructure your workday to include regular breaks, even if its five minutes to take some deep breaths or even scroll social media. Setting boundaries with your time, especially when it comes to being on or off the clock, is instrumental in staving off burnout and improving overall mental health. Beyond the workplace, fostering hobbies and doing activities that bring you joy is a great way to inject a little boost into your free time. Finding these pockets of joy can help you feel refreshed, recharged and ready to embrace another work week. Exercise, a balanced diet and a regular sleep schedule can make a big difference in fighting burnout, but so can hanging with our favorite furry companions! We know that pets can help combat feelings of stress and depression, so why not burnout as well? Pets can provide structure and routine, which can work wonders to help calm the chaos of multiple jobs and responsibilities vying for our attention. Animals are great at reading emotion, thanks to their heightened senses that allow them to pick up on changes in our hormones as well as our vocalizations, and many are very adept at knowing when their human needs a little extra comfort and support. Burnout is a very real and common phenomenon that more people experience than you might think. If you feel like you might be experiencing the symptoms of burnout, it is not too late to switch up your routine and reframe your mindset to become happier and healthier. Talking with a doctor or licensed therapist to create the best plan for your lifestyle is another great method for tackling the feelings associated with burnout in a safe and productive way. And when in doubt, a little extra cuddle with your pet never hurts!

Travelling with your pet can be an adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both of you. From navigating the complex web of regulations to ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety throughout the trip, there are several crucial factors to consider. We’ve compiled a helpful guide of tips to get you started on your journey of air-travel with your furry friend, allowing you both to embark on a rewarding and unforgettable experience together. PREPPING FOR YOUR TRIP Depending on your destination, you may need to conduct thorough research about pet import regulations. Each country has its own set of rules, requirements and restrictions regarding pet travel, such as mandatory vaccinations, health certificates, and quarantine periods. Start this process well in advance to ensure you have ample time to fulfill all the necessary paperwork and appointments with your veterinarian. This is also a good time to make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date with current contact information. Microchipping is one of the best ways to ensure a safe reunion with your pet in case they get lost during your travels. When it comes to choosing your airline and accommodations, select ones that cater to travelers with pets. Many airlines have specific pet travel policies, including weight restrictions, carrier guidelines, and reservation procedures. Once you have chosen the best airline to suit your needs, the next step is to make sure your pet’s carrier is suitable for the journey. Selecting the appropriate travel crate is vital for your pet’s safety and comfort. Ensure the crate is IATA-approved, well-ventilated, and large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Familiarizing your pet with the crate gradually, such as taking them on short car trips, can help get your pet accustomed to travel and reduce their stress and anxiety come departure day. BEFORE YOU BOARD Tickets? Check. Toiletries? Check. Pet essentials? As you go through your packing list, don’t forget to include your pet’s necessities too! Food, water, favorite toys and a comfortable blanket can go a long way in making your pet feel safer during the flight (Check here for TSA Pet Food guidelines). The ASPCA recommends “freezing a tray of water for your [pet’s] carrier. It won’t spill when [they’re] loaded, but it will melt so there’s water when [they] need a drink.” While most supplies can be easily restocked once you reach your destination, be sure you have packed any important medications, documents and comforting items. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare collar and leash, plus extra poop bags for any emergency situations. Before boarding, try to schedule in a little play time. Giving your pet the opportunity to burn off some excess energy can wear them out, hopefully making the overall experience a bit less stressful. It also gives them a chance to have one last potty break before being loaded into the crate. Remember, pets are incredibly perceptive and can sense your emotions. Travel can be hectic even without the added stress of bringing your pet along, so it is important to stay as calm and positive as possible during the journey to keep your pet at ease. Comfort them with gentle words and encouraging pats whenever you can. If you are worried about your pet’s anxiety, consult with your veterinarian to see if calming treats or CBD tinctures are a good option for your pet, especially since the TSA has updated their THC guidelines. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises against giving your pet anything stronger before flying, such as tranquilizers. Tranquilizers can affect a dog’s balance and they will cope better at the higher altitude and limited oxygen if not sedated. AND YOU’RE OFF! Travelling with a pet is a lot of work and prep, but the memories you will create are well worth the effort. By researching destination regulations, prioritizing your pet’s comfort and safety and planning ahead, you can have an enjoyable journey with your favorite furry friend. So, where will you be jetting off to next?

Animals can experience a range of emotions that aren’t always easily seen, and they are not immune to depressive feelings after experiencing a traumatic situation. For many of us, our pets are not just animals; they are members of the family who bring joy, comfort, and a sense of purpose to our lives. However, when a pet experiences trauma like the death of an owner or abandonment, it can leave a lasting impact not only on the human family but also on the pets themselves. Grief and depression in animals can manifest in various ways. Changes in their behavior, such as decreased appetite, listlessness or withdrawal can be indicators that a pet may be depressed. Just as humans may withdraw from social interactions during periods of grief, pets may also seek solitude in quiet corners. If they become less interested in play or their usual activities, have trouble falling asleep or wake frequently during the night, it could be beneficial to consult a vet or professional animal behaviorist to rule out a more serious affliction. One of the best ways to help a melancholy pet is to keep their daily routine as consistent as possible. Regular mealtimes, walks, and playtime can provide a sense of stability and comfort in what can be a tumultuous and confusing time. Offering them plenty of love, attention, and physical affection can help alleviate their loneliness and provide distraction. The death of a beloved owner is not the only scenario that could make a pet experience these symptoms of depression. Every year, approximately 6.5 million animals enter shelters in the United States each year, with 30% being surrendered by their owners, leaving animal shelters overwhelmed. For those animals that the shelters are able to provide for, they are now faced with an uncertain future. Losing the only home they’ve ever known, especially if it was an abusive situation, can leave both physical and emotional scars. These pets may not attract the attention of many adopters due to their temperament, but they need love all the same. Sometimes it just takes patience, compassion and the right person to see the lovable animal behind the trauma. For those who find themselves in the position of adopting an animal with depression-like symptoms or who may have experienced a troubled past, it’s important to understand the responsibility involved to care for an animal that may never act like a “normal” pet. In some cases, a close relative might be the most familiar person and therefore help maintain a sense of normalcy for the pet by taking over their care. But when it comes to losing a beloved family member, it is understandable if it is too painful for that individual to care for the animal even if they want to. In order to provide the best care for another human or animal, it is important to ensure that one’s own health and needs are taken care. Life is not always simple. Sometimes we are asked to step up and take responsibility even if we do not feel prepared. That is why it is so important to surround ourselves with a strong support system of people who can provide assistance, comfort or even just a steadying presence to let us know we are not alone. Community is one of the most important aspects of the Offleash’d mission, and we are always working to find new ways for users to facilitate connections so they can create their own networks of support both online and in-person. With the upcoming launch of the Offleash’d Groups feature, users will be able to form groups based on specific interests and needs, connect with verified professionals and share information. Our goal is to provide pet owners with various avenues for creating the community they need. Recognizing the signs of pet depression is crucial for providing the right support in a timely manner to ensure the best quality of life for both human and pet. It is no easy task, but it can be incredibly rewarding for those who feel called to care for these animals in need. In doing so, we honor the special bond we share with our animals and ensure their emotional well-being as they continue to be an integral part of our lives.