As your favorite pet waste removal service, Little Landmines is always on the lookout for the best dog parks in Delaware for our clients to enjoy with their furry friends. After spending countless hours picking up waste at various yards and parks across the state, we have compiled a list of the top dog parks in Delaware for you and your pup to enjoy. This week we will focus on New Castle/Kent Counties.  Stay tuned for next week when we feature Sussex County!

1. Glasgow Park: This dog park is one of our favorites in Newark, not only for its large, fenced-in area for dogs to run and play, but also for its separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as a pond for dogs to swim in. The park is well-maintained, ensuring a clean and pleasant experience for all visitors.
2. Silver Lake Park: This park in Dover is a great option for pet owners, featuring a large, fenced-in dog park with a separate area for small dogs. The park also boasts a walking trail and a pond for dogs to swim in, making it a perfect spot for a fun-filled day out with your pup.
3. Brandywine Creek State Park: This state park in Wilmington offers a large, fenced-in dog park with plenty of room for dogs to run and play. The park also has a walking trail and a pond for dogs to swim in, making it a great spot for a summer day out with your furry friend.
4. Lums Pond State Park: Located in Bear, this state park has a large, fenced-in dog park with plenty of room for dogs to run and play. The park also has a walking trail and a pond for dogs to swim in, providing an ideal spot for a day out with your pup.
5. White Clay Creek State Park: This state park in Newark is another excellent option, featuring a large, fenced-in dog park with plenty of room for dogs to run and play. The park also has a walking trail and a pond for dogs to swim in, making it a great spot for a summer day out with your furry friend.

6.       Levels Road Dog Park: Located in Middletown, this dog park is a great option for pet owners looking for a well-maintained, fenced-in area for their dogs to run and play. The park also has separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as plenty of space for dogs to socialize.

As pet waste removal experts, we highly recommend all pet owners to clean up after their pets to ensure a clean and pleasant experience for everyone. So, next time you visit one of these dog parks, remember to bring your waste bags and keep our parks clean!
In conclusion, Delaware offers a wide variety of dog parks to choose from, each of which offers unique features and amenities to keep your dog entertained and exercised. Whether you're looking for a place to swim, run, or just play, these dog parks are sure to provide a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. And if your dogs are like mine, and "hold it" until they get home, give us a call to come clean up the landmines in your yard!

Here at Little Landmines, we are your one-stop-shop for pet waste removal and all things poop-related. But today, we're going to talk about the age-old debate of cats vs dogs, and the people who love them.

First, let's talk about the animals themselves. Dogs are known for their loyalty, trainability, and love of belly rubs. They'll follow you around the house, wag their tail when you come home, and will even try to protect you from the mailman. They are considered as man's best friend, many dog owners consider them as part of the family. They come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny Chihuahua to the massive Great Dane, and each breed has its own unique personality and characteristics.

Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, aloofness, and love of napping in the sun. They'll ignore you for hours, then suddenly appear out of nowhere to demand a chin scratch. They are known to be more low maintenance pets and are perfect for people who have busy lifestyles. They are also known to be great hunters and can keep your home free of pesky rodents.

Now, let's talk about the people who love these animals. Dog people are often seen as outgoing, friendly, and adventurous. They're the ones who take their pups on hikes, to the dog park, and even to the office. They often enjoy being active and love to spend time outdoors with their furry friends. Dog people are also known to be more social, as they often make friends with other dog owners at the park or dog daycare.

Cat people, on the other hand, are often seen as more reserved, independent, and content to stay at home. They're the ones who have multiple cats and are perfectly happy to spend the evening curled up with their feline friends. They are often seen as more introverted and prefer the company of their cats to the company of humans. They are also known to be more laid-back and enjoy the simple things in life.

​Of course, these are just generalizations and there are plenty of exceptions. You can be a dog person and still love a good nap or a cat person who loves to go on adventures. The most important thing is to love and care for your pet, no matter what species they are!

How about similarities?  Both cats and dogs require love and attention from their owners. Whether it's a belly rub for a dog or a chin scratch for a cat, both animals crave affection from their human companions. They also both need proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care to stay healthy and happy.

Both cats and dogs make great companions. They offer unconditional love, provide companionship and have been known to have positive effects on mental health and well-being. They both can be trained to do tricks, obey commands and even provide therapy.

One of the most obvious similarities between cats and dogs is that they both poop. That's right, despite their many differences, both cats and dogs have one thing in common: they both need to go to the bathroom! And as pet owners, it's our responsibility to make sure that their waste is properly disposed of. That's where Little Landmines comes in. Our team of experts will come to your property and remove all the pet waste, leaving your yard clean and sanitary. Whether it's the grass or patio in your backyard or the litterbox in your basement, we've got you covered!
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Give us a call today!

As a local pooper pooper scooper company, Little Landmines understands the importance of taking care of our furry friends. One way to do this is by supporting local pet rescues. Pet rescues provide care and shelter for animals in need, and they rely on the support of the community to continue their important work. Here at Little Landmines, we believe in giving back to the community, and that includes supporting local pet rescues. In this blog post, we'll share a few ways you can help local pet rescues and make a difference in the lives of animals in need.

1. Donate money or supplies. Pet rescues rely on donations to cover the costs of food, medicine, and other necessities. You can make a one-time donation or set up a recurring donation to support the rescue. You can also donate supplies such as food, blankets, and toys.
2. Adopt a pet. One of the best ways to help a pet rescue is by adopting one of their animals. Not only will you be giving a loving home to a furry friend, but you'll also be freeing up space for another animal in need.
3. Volunteer. Many pet rescues rely on volunteers to help with tasks such as walking and socializing animals, cleaning cages, and fostering animals. By volunteering your time, you can make a big difference in the lives of the animals in the rescue.
4. Spread the word. Share information about local pet rescues with your friends and family. Encourage them to adopt, donate, or volunteer. Social media is a great way to raise awareness and help the rescues reach a wider audience.
5. Support Local Pet Businesses that support Pet Rescues. You can also support pet rescues by supporting local pet-related businesses that donate a portion of their profits to rescues.

Pet rescues are an essential part of our community, and they need our support to continue their important work. By donating, adopting, volunteering, and spreading the word, you can make a difference in the lives of animals in need. At Little Landmines, we are proud to support local pet rescues, and we encourage you to do the same. Here are just some Delaware and Maryland area rescues we regularly donate to or help with fundraisers and adoptions! Please help them keep our shelters empty and help an animal in need!
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1) Renee's Rescues, Delaware
www.reneesrescues.org
2) Doggone Happy Rescue, Delaware
www.doggonehappyde.com
3) Almost Home Animal Rescue, Maryland
www.almosthomedogs.com
4) It Takes a Village Animal Rescue, Delaware
www.itavar.com
5) Brandywine Valley SPCA, Delaware
www.bvspca.org
6) Faithful Friends Animal Society, Delaware
www.faithfriends.us
7) Paws for Life, Maryland
www.pawsforlife.org

Anyone else (mostly the Gen X'ers & elder Millenials) remember a sick day home from school, drinking ginger ale, slurping Campbell's soup and watching "The Price is Right" with Bob Barker?  His parting words after the showcase showdown are forever etched in my mind.  "Help control the pet population.  Have your pet spayed or neutered!" 

Spaying (females) and neutering (males) are important medical procedures that involve the surgical removal of an animal's reproductive organs. These procedures have numerous benefits for both pets and the community as a whole. Here are just a few of the reasons why spaying and neutering are important:
    1.    Population control: One of the main reasons for spaying and neutering pets is to help control the population of stray and unwanted animals. There are simply not enough homes for all the puppies and kittens that are born each year, and many of these animals end up in shelters or on the streets. By spaying or neutering your pet, you can help reduce the number of animals in need of homes.
    2.    Health benefits: Spaying and neutering can also have numerous health benefits for your pet. For example, spaying can help prevent certain types of cancer in female animals, while neutering can help prevent prostate problems in male animals. These procedures can also help reduce the risk of certain types of behavior problems, such as aggression and marking territory.
    3.    Behavioral benefits: In addition to the health benefits, spaying and neutering can also help improve your pet's behavior. For example, spaying can help prevent females from going into heat, which can reduce unwanted behaviors such as yowling and trying to escape. Neutering can also help reduce aggression and other undesirable behaviors in male animals.
    4.    Cost savings: While spaying and neutering can be expensive upfront, they can actually save you money in the long run. Unaltered pets are more likely to develop health problems that require medical attention, which can be costly. In addition, unaltered pets may also be more likely to cause damage to your home or property, such as by digging or chewing.
Overall, spaying and neutering are important for the health and well-being of both pets and the community. If you are considering adding a new pet to your family, be sure to consider the benefits of spaying and neutering and make the responsible choice for your pet and for the greater good. Also remember to let us help keep the yards clean for your pets!  Give us a call or send an email quote request and we'll be sure to "come on down" because here at Little Landmines, our price is right!
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As a your favorite pooper scooper company, Little Landmines understands the unique bond that exists between pet owners and their furry friends. While our main focus is on keeping your yard clean and free of pet waste, we also want to help address any problems that may arise in the care of your pet!

One common issue that many pet owners face is separation anxiety, mostly in their dogs (because let’s face it, most cats don’t care when we leave! Ha!)   This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as excessive barking or whining when you leave the house, destructive behavior, or even physical symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. It's a difficult situation for both you and your pet, and it can be stressful for everyone involved.
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So what can you do to help your dog cope with separation anxiety? Here are a few tips that might be helpful:

1. Gradually acclimate your dog to being alone. If you're going to be away from home for an extended period of time, it's important to help your dog get used to the idea gradually. Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods of time and gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable.
2. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A tired dog is a happy dog, and engaging in activities that challenge their body and mind can help tire them out and reduce anxiety. Leave some safe toys they can play with while you're gone, or even leave an article of your clothing near their bed they can snuggle up with!
3. Use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior. When you leave the house, make sure to give your dog plenty of praise and treats for good behavior. This will help them associate being alone with positive experiences.
4. Consider using calming aids. There are a variety of products on the market designed to help dogs cope with anxiety, such as calming collars, pheromone diffusers or cbd supplements. Consult with your veterinarian to see if one of these options might be appropriate for your dog.
5. If your dog needs a little more help, consult with a professional about a 2 way dog camera.  There are some on the market where you can interact with your dog during the day, toss treats, and monitor their behavior to see how long they are home before the anxiety is unbearable for them.  However, always check with your vet first, because sometimes these are scary to the dog if they can hear you but can't see you.  

Separation anxiety can be a tough problem to solve, but with patience and a little bit of effort, it is possible to help your dog learn to cope with being alone. Remember, if you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. Together, we can help your furry friend live a happy and healthy life. Give us a call to ensure your yard stays clean and landmine free to help in that happy life!

We're purr-ty sure no one likes cleaning a litter box! It's a dirty job, but someone's gotta do it! Let us help! Changing your cat's litter box is an important part of being a responsible cat owner. Not only is it important for maintaining good hygiene, but it is also crucial for your cat's health. Here are some best practices for changing your cat's litter box and what is safe to use and not use.
First and foremost, it is important to clean the litter box regularly. This means scooping out solid waste and clumps of urine every day and fully emptying and cleaning the litter box every week. Using a good quality litter scoop can make this task much easier and more efficient. For a deep clean, empty all the litter and clean only with cat safe products such as Dawn free and clear or hot water with a small amount of peroxide or white vinegar. Avoid products that have ammonia, bleach, or any type of caustic ingredient. ALWAYS rinse thoroughly!
When it comes to choosing the type of litter to use, there are a few things to consider. The most important factor is whether or not the litter is safe for your cat. Some types of litter, such as those made from clay, can be inhaled by your cat and can cause respiratory problems. It is also important to avoid litters that contain deodorizers or perfumes, as these can be harmful to your cat's sensitive nose. Instead, look for natural litters made from materials such as wood, corn, or paper.
In addition to choosing the right type of litter, it is also important to consider the size and number of litter boxes you have. It is recommended to have one litter box per cat, plus an extra. The litter box should also be large enough for your cat to comfortably turn around and move in.
Another thing to consider is the location of the litter box. Cats can be picky about where they go to the bathroom, so it is important to place the litter box in a quiet, easily accessible area. Avoid placing the litter box in a high traffic area or near your cat's food and water dishes.
Finally, it is important to dispose of used litter properly. Do not flush it down the toilet, as it can clog the pipes. Instead, dispose of it in a plastic bag (we recommend double bagging per the EPA standards) and place it in the trash.
In summary, changing your cat's litter box is an important part of being a responsible cat owner. Choose a natural, unscented litter and make sure you have enough litter boxes for all of your cats. Keep the litter box clean and in a quiet, easily accessible location, and dispose of used litter properly. By following these best practices, you can help keep your cat happy and healthy. Even better, let us help. We offer litterbox cleanings starting as low as $15 a week! Give us a call and we will litter-ally do it for you! Meow!

Picking up after your dog is a responsibility that comes with being a pet owner. Not a fun one, but that's where we come in! Some folks pause services over the winter, since the family time spent outside seems to decrease, but you really should consider continuing service year round, no matter what.  In the colder months, it can be tempting to let the pick-ups slide, especially if you're not a fan of braving the cold weather. Here's why it's important to continue your regular dog pooper scooper service throughout the winter, even in your own backyard.

First and foremost, failing to pick up after your dog can have icky consequences for the environment. Dog feces can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can contaminate water sources and pose a risk to both human and animal health. In the winter, when snow and ice can prevent these contaminants from properly breaking down, the risk is even greater.  The poo is dormant in the winter, so when the spring comes to thaw, even more parasites can be unleashed from the accumulation of waste! By continuing to have us pick up after your dog, you can help prevent the spread of these harmful bacteria and protect the health of your family and community.

Additionally, failing to pick dog waste can also create an unpleasant environment for you and your family. Nobody wants to step in a pile of dog poop, and if you're not regularly cleaning up after your pet, you're likely to create a potential nasty encounter for those in your own backyard. In the winter, when grass and other surfaces may be covered in snow, it can be even harder to avoid these unpleasant surprises. No one wants a snowball thrown at them with a poopy center or getting up from a perfectly crafted snow angel to see smears of poop! By continuing have us pick up after your dog, you can ensure that your own backyard remains a clean and safe space for you and your family to enjoy, even in the winter.
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Finally, having us pick up after your dog is one less chore for you and it feels good! I know my anxiety and stress lowers when my home and property are neat and tidy.  If someone helps me accomplish that, it's even better!  Like the quote says "don't eat yellow snow", might we also add "don't frolic in a winter backyard that hasn't been cleaned by Little Landmines!"

In conclusion, continuing your regular dog pooper scooper service throughout the winter, even in your own backyard, is important for a number of reasons. It helps protect the environment, ensures that your backyard remains clean and safe, and lessens your to-do list and allowing more free time. So even if it's cold outside, remember to let us help keep your yard clean and landmine free! Make sure you let us know how we can help!

​I am a dog lover and not only do I love all our clients’ dogs, I have 3 of my own!  Buster is an almost 14 year old boston terrier/pug mix who we got as a puppy, Penny is a 5 year old chow/jack Russell mix we rescued in 2021, and Missy is a one year old pug/pekingnese mix we rescued this summer (a huge foster fail!).  They are all wonderful companions and we love them so much.  We always make sure we celebrate their birthdays, gotcha days, and of course, Christmas time! They each have their own stocking and get a new toy, too!

Here’s a lists of some of our three’s favorite toys, in case you need some ideas for a gift for your pup!  I am not an affiliate of any retailer, I just love sharing what I love! 

CLICK ON THE PHOTOS TO PURCHASE OR SEE MORE DETAILS! 

1). Chuck-it! Fetch Wheel.
This toy is durable and fun! It’s like a frisbee, but easier to toss and also easier for the dog to carry back!  Our dogs are all chewers and this has held up for 6 months now.  Another plus, we have a pool AND one of our dogs (the oldest one) loves to swim – this toy floats!

2). Dog Tornado Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy.
This is a favorite in our house!  This toy has 12 hidden compartments and 3 bones you can move all over to hide treats!  Missy loves this one! It keeps them entertained and they get to use some puzzle-solving techniques.  Penny figured out to just flip it over though, so we have to supervise!  Ha!

3).  Hide-a-Squirrel Plush Toy
Anything that squeaks is a hit here! This Hide A Squirrel dog puzzle is so fun.  Just fill the tree trunk with 3 stuffed squeaky squirrels, toss it, and my dogs go crazy.  The first time we bought it home they each found a squirrel and this house was filled with squeaks!

4). Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
This one is so much fun!  The noises it makes keeps our dogs so entertained, even my 10 year old likes to roll it and hear the wobbly noises! It’s a large ball, but there’s 4 indentations so even small dogs can carry it!

5).  Hartz DuraPlay Bacon Scented Dog Toys
What dog wouldn’t love a toy that smells like bacon? This one is very soft, so it’s great for senior dogs, making the squeak inside easier!  It also floats and is really easy to clean.  Definitely a good stocking stuffer!

Know what else is a great gift for both YOU and YOUR dog?  A Little Landmine gift card!  You get a clean yard and so does your furry friend.  They fit perfectly in a stocking and are on sale right now until end of the year!  Use promo code HOLIDAY22 to see the discount at checkout. This promo is good until 12/31/22 and works for new or existing customers!!! Existing customers, we will apply it to your account. This is a paw-some deal!! Happy Holidays to everyone!

It's a typical scene in many a pet owner's home:
Your dog is constantly bringing sticks and balls from the back yard into the house.  If you're anything like me, you tell them to leave it outside, the balls and sticks are OUTSIDE toys, amirite?  So imagine after hearing "no sticks in the house" and "balls are for outside only" for ELEVEN months out of the year, now your doggo sees his family bring an entire TREE into the house.  Then they proceed to decorate it with BALLS! The audacity of the hoomans! What is this?  It can be a confusing time for our pets!  All joking aside, here are some tips to keep your tree safe around Fido & Snowball.

1. Choose a smart location
Where is the best place in your home you can enjoy your tree, but also prevent your dog or cat from having access if you need to? For some pups, simply placing a small fence or playpen around the base of the tree will prevent them from exploring and chewing when you’re not around. Make sure there’s no furniture nearby your pet could use to jump over the fence. For the ultimate barrier, consider placing your Christmas tree in a room with a door, and shutting the door when you’re not around. Every pet is different, so use your best judgment regarding your pet’s tendencies and mischief level.

2. Secure the Tree
Find a sturdy holder or anchor for your tree so it can’t be knocked over. Some pet parents even find ways to anchor the tree against a wall or ceiling, using a fishing line and hooks to make the tree cat safe. This is especially important for cat owners. Even the most docile indoor cats may be tempted to climb a Christmas tree because they might think it’s a new toy just for them. Cats are notorious for knocking trees over, but playful pups can also tip over a tree

3. Don’t Let Pets Drink Tree Water
The water in your Christmas tree stand may accumulate fertilizers, bacteria, sap, pesticides, additives, and toxic tree preservatives — all of which are harmful to thirsty cats and dogs. It may seem like tree water is well hidden under branches, but curious cats and dogs will find a way. So be sure to cover the water so there’s no chance of your furry friend confusing it for their water bowl. Shop for pet-proof tree stands (those with a compact shape that covers the water reservoir) or small pet fences to enclose the stand. Or, try using a garbage bag or margarine lid (with a hole for the tree trunk in the middle) to cover the water. You can then cover it up with a tree skirt.

4. Have a Plan for Pine Needles
​Fortunately, most holiday trees (pine, spruce, and fir trees) don’t carry a risk of toxicity to dogs and cats. However, although Christmas trees aren’t poisonous, oils from needles and branches may irritate the mouth or stomach. This can cause excessive drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. Also, since pine needles are sharp and non-digestible, they might puncture the mouth, throat, stomach, or intestines if swallowed. If ingested in large amounts, tree needles can even cause an intestinal blockage that requires a surgery to correct. For all these reasons, try to vacuum up fallen tree needles as often as you can, and prevent your pet from chewing on branches. An artificial tree is an attractive alternative that saves you from constantly cleaning up fallen needles. However, if your pet’s a chewer, they may still try to chew artificial needles or branches.

5. Prevent Electric Shocks
Whether they cover your home or your tree, lights are a part of nearly every holiday decorating style. However, lights and other electronic Christmas decorations might attract the interest of our canine and feline friends, too. There is a risk of electric shock or burns from biting or clawing into electric cords, ornaments, lights, and displays. Also broken lights have sharp edges, and cords may cause a pet to become entangled. Enjoy lights and electronics safely by keeping them out of your pet’s reach: Place décor high up, avoid decorating the tree’s lowest branches, and use protective cord covers as needed.

6. Keep Ornaments Out of Reach
For maximum safety, don’t make it easy for pets to reach ornaments, and avoid placing them on the lowest branches of your tree, especially your family heirloom ornaments or anything fragile. Glass ornaments and baubles are very sharp if they break, which can happen if a pet bites into them or if they fall and shatter. Small ornaments, stuffed/plush ornaments, or pinecones can cause an intestinal blockage (which requires a surgery to fix) if swallowed. Food-based ornaments also present risks. For example, salt dough ornaments can cause salt toxicity, chocolate and the sweetener xylitol are toxic to pets, and the string of popcorn garland can get tangled in the intestines. Consider investing in shatter-proof ornaments, too. And when in doubt about an ornament’s safety, avoid using it.

7. Be Cautious with Holiday Plants
While we’re talking about trees, it’s important to keep in mind other holiday plants can also present risks to pets. Poinsettias and holly can cause stomach upset if ingested. Mistletoe can, too, in addition to more serious side effects, like difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, and even death, if consumed in large amounts. Also, amaryllis may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive drooling, depression, or tremors. And lilies cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.

8. Say No to Tinsel
As beautiful as it looks, tinsel (also known as angel hair) has fallen out of favor as a Christmas decoration in homes with pets, due to potential health risks. Ingested tinsel may get stuck in the intestines, which requires surgical correction. This is something that’s fairly common in cats, who love to play with strings and might accidentally swallow them in the process. But it can happen to dogs, too.

9. Remember that Pets Like Presents, Too
​Many pets won’t bother presents under your tree, but others will tear them open or eat the wrapping materials or the present itself (especially if there are any food items, which a pet’s sensitive nose can detect). To avoid this issue, wait until Christmas morning to put presents out. Lastly, consider getting your pup or kitty their own present (a special toy, scratching post, catnip, or treat), so they’ll feel included in the festivities. You can even place the present in a gift bag or loose paper so they can “open” their own gift.
With a bit of planning, everyone in the home — two-legged and four-legged alike — can enjoy the holidays with no mishaps!

​* Special thank you to Bond Vet for these tips!