Gifts You Still Have to Find for the Furry Members

He’s making a list, checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty and nice…

Santa Paws is coming to town.

Most of the gifts are purchased and wrapped and under the tree, right? Well, maybe not, and maybe some of the gifts you still have to find are for the furry members of the household. You’ve put some catnip or a bone in a stocking before, but maybe this year you’re looking for something different. 

Bestproducts.com has a slideshow of ideas. 

The Howliday Box : a gift box with a variety of gifts for that hard-to-shop-for dog.

Facial Massage Roller for Cats : more ways for cats to prove they’re in charge of what you do for them.

Apollo Peak MosCATo wine: for those nights cuddling in front of a crackling fire (don’t forget to pick up some human wine for yourself).

The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth: for those dogs who like a gourmet touch to their food.

And if you are that horse-lover who always really wanted a unicorn, you can get your horse its very own unicorn costume!

One thing to be aware of is that if you wrap up a great food treat and help the dog open it, it is entirely possible that from that day forward, the dog will think that every present is for her and will want to help you unwrap it.
And if you have cats, there’s nothing they’ll like better than the boxes the presents come in. 

It’s time to bring them home

You’ve been anticipating the big day. You’ve spent time preparing for it. Getting the right bed, toys, and maybe some soft blankets. Letting your current household residents know it’s happening. It’s time to bring them home.

No, it’s not a new baby.

It’s a new cat or dog.

The problem is, you need to introduce the new pet and the pet you already have, and that can be tricky. Sometimes, pets will take to each other easily, but often, they will understandably be scared, wary and even jealous of each other. It can be a little trickier introducing dogs and cats to each other too, especially if they’ve never seen the other type of animal before.

You’ll want to make sure to consider both animals’ personalities, and plan accordingly. You don’t want them disliking and fighting with each other (though sometimes it will be expected). If you have an aggressive dog, you may want to skip the idea of getting a cat, but an easygoing, friendly dog might welcome a new kitten.

Perhaps introduce your dog or cat to a friend’s dog or cat first, to see how they react, before deciding what new pet to bring into your own home. Once you bring the new animal home, rotate who has freedom in the house; one day the cat, the next day, the dog. This way they can learn to share the home with each other and have some time to explore on their own too. You’ll also want to keep them separated when no humans are home to keep an eye on them.

If you have any questions or problems, you may want to consider consulting a veterinarian or an animal behavioral specialist, because you don’t want stressed out animals. The goal is finding a way to have a happy home.

What are some cat myths you have heard?

Sometimes, we think we know some facts about cats, but it turns out that those facts are actually myths. Even the most ardent cat-lover isn’t immune to believing them.

The first myth that most people probably believe is that cats should drink milk. While it’s true they may love the taste of it, and some are even more partial to whipped cream, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is good for them. They are can possibly be lactose intolerant, just like many humans. You’ll need to find another treat for them.

Another myth that people might believe about cats is that they hate water. While they may not enjoy swimming, cats are actually fascinated by water, especially running water. They may prefer drinking out of the bathroom faucet to their water dish, and even enjoy sitting on the edge of the tub while you take a bath. 

One of the saddest myths is the idea that cats shouldn’t be in homes with pregnant women or babies, because of fears of contracting toxoplasmosis or the cat “stealing” the baby’s breath. Toxoplasmosis can be a risk, but it’s a risk not only from cat litter, but also potentially raw meat or digging in the garden. This is a great time to give someone else in the household the opportunity to learn a new chore of cleaning out the litter box.

And cats don’t steal a baby’s breath. Rather, they just love to cuddle up next to something warm and soft.

Another truth about cats: They love to lodge at Morris Animal Inn!

Cats & People Food Go Together?

The sound of a can opener opening a can of tuna can make the cats come running. The smell of the chicken resting on the kitchen counter can make cats think it’s for them, and look at you like you’re in the wrong when you chase them off.

People food is often a special treat for them, but there are foods other than the usual fish and chicken that cats may like too. Cats’ tastes can be as varied as anyone’s tastes, and they can try new foods (just remember to always check with your veterinarian about dietary changes). Every once in a while, cats will like strange food items such as Doritos or lollipops. They will try to get at them when you are eating them but those will not be vet-approved. On the healthier side, cats may like treats such as:

•          Green Beans
•          Sweet Potatoes
•          Plain low-fat yogurt
•          Spinach
•          Blueberries

If you choose to try any of these foods as a treat for your cat, and your vet approves, make sure they are cut into small enough pieces so they don’t choke, and make sure that anything cooked is baked or steamed. These foods shouldn’t replace your cat’s meals, but instead should be given sparingly. They can replace packaged treats. You will also need to make sure your cat doesn’t have any bad reactions to them, so check for digestive or behavioral changes. If the food agrees with your cat, it might help them stay healthy, boost their immune system, and maintain their weight. 

At Morris Animal Inn there are some healthy treats for your cats such as mahi mahi, lobster consommé and other catch o' the day snacks. Ask about it when you make your next reservation for your favorite feline's lodging stay. 

Source: petmd.com 

Peace of Mind Your Cat is Well Cared For

It’s more likely we will lodge our dogs than our cats, but boarding cats is an option too. 

When we lodge our cat, we have someone to monitor and feed them on a regular basis, checking the litter box for regularity, giving them opportunities to play and updating us on how they're doing. We have peace of mind our cat is well-cared for.

At Morris Animal Inn, there are three options of cat lodging:

• Condos, for one cat, which have two levels in which to play and rest.
• Deluxe Condos, which have four levels for up to two cats from the same family
• Luxury Suites, which have multiple levels and climbing areas for up to five cats from the same family.

Each of these allows your cat to have

• A low-stress environment
• Separate spacious accommodations
• Comforts of home and more!

Now, if you can just get the cat out from under the bed and into the carrier, you’ll be all set. 

Safe, Easy, Stress Free for your Dog & Cat

You’ve been waiting for your vacation for a long time. Your tickets are purchased, hotel is booked, and packing list is made. There’s one last errand to run, and that’s getting your pet to Morris Animal Inn. Unfortunately, timing doesn’t work quite right with your schedule.

There was consideration to lodge your pet at places close to your home or destination. You’ve even heard about airport lodging facilities. The only problem is, you don’t know much about them, and you really want your pet to be in a place that you know and love.

You don’t have to worry anymore. We have solved your transportation problem with our private dog and cat chauffeur service to and from Morris Animal Inn. 

This service is safe, easy and stress free, giving you peace of mind, and you will get a report when your dog reaches the Inn.

If you would like to take advantage of this for your upcoming trip, fill our our easy form. 

What's Making Your Dog or Cat Sick?

You know what it’s like to feel sick. You ate the wrong thing, or have a virus that wreaks havoc on your intestines.

Did you know your dog or cat can feel the same way? 

Our pet kids are important to us, but they can’t always tell us when they are sick. We need to be tuned in to their normal behavior and habits in order to know when something is “off” with them. When in doubt, call your veterinarian and take your canine or feline in for a checkup.

Giardia is a parasite that can live in your pet’s intestines. It usually happens more in puppies than older dogs, but can happen to any dog or cat. This parasite is picked up by drinking water or something else that has been contaminated with feces. If they have this parasite and becomes sick from it, the disease is called giardiasis, resulting in diarrhea, weight loss, poor condition and potentially death if not treated.

If your pet does have giardiasis, your vet will probably prescribe medication and a follow-up appointment will be necessary. When the medication is finished, you’ll want to take the following precautions:

• ·         Bathe & rinse your pet (wear gloves & do the hind end last)
• ·         Disinfect food bowls and toys
• ·         Steam clean upholstery and carpeting
• ·         Disinfect hard surfaces

Because a dog is contagious while they have Giardia, even as they are going through treatment, you will want to limit your pet’s contact with other dogs and humans. If your pet attends a group play environment such as dog daycare or dog parks it may be necessary to keep them home for a few weeks so other dogs are not at risk. 

You’ll also want to make sure your other pets, if you have them, do not also have the parasite.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, your dog or cat should be feeling better in a couple of weeks and can resume all social activities. 

The Cat's Meow

You see it move, slightly, out of the corner of your eye.

Your attention is caught.

It moves again. You are vigilant, watching it closely to see what it will do next.

Your entire body is taut, ready to move.

It moves again, and you pounce.

You are a cat who just caught a toy your person has bought for you. You don’t care that you are entertainment for them; you just love the thrill of the hunt. And you know they are happy you aren’t taking this time to knock stuff onto the floor or attack them as they innocently wander past your lair.

Cats have a need to hunt, but with their indoor lifestyle, amid the cozy blankets and soft places, they often don’t get as much of an opportunity as they would like to be able to exercise those instincts they have.

The good news is that there are a number of toys—both for sale and that you can find at home—for cats that will keep them occupied and interested, such as a wand with feathers, a crumpled paper or foil ball, the red light of a laser pen (just make sure to not shine it in the cat’s eyes). Even an empty paper bag after you’ve brought home the groceries is fun for cats.

Remember that there are certain items that are not good for your cat to play with: paper clips, rubber bands, plastic bags, string, anything chewable.

Another great reason to stimulate your cat with play is that it is a bonding experience for both of you—and maybe even reduces your boredom as well.

If you need help keeping your kitty entertained, bring them to us to lodge. We have kitty chaser games, teaser sessions, a kitty playroom, kitty TV and more prey activities which is the “cat’s meow”! 

Kitty on the Prowl Video

What is Your Cat Trying to Tell You?

We cat owners know that our cats are intelligent animals, but sometimes we might not be quite so sure what they are trying to tell us.

Does your cat blink when she’s looking at you? That means she trusts you enough to close her eyes because she knows she won’t be attacked. She probably won’t do this if her pupils are very small or very large, though. That would mean that she’s scared or upset about something.

You’ll also know she’s anxious or scared if her tail is tucked down or puffed up—especially if her ears are flat too. If she’s like this, you may want to leave her alone for a little while and let her calm down. Once she’s calm, you may see some signs that she’s in a playful or affectionate mood. Her tail may be straight up, her ears attentive, or she may even let you rub her belly. If she’s being extra affectionate, she’ll knead her paws on you and rub her head on you—marking you as her territory.

And, of course, there’s the “meow.” Cats meow in many different ways, and have learned to do this in order to communicate with us; they don’t naturally meow with each other as a form of communication. They also purr, hiss, growl, chirp, or chatter.

And what cat owner doesn’t meow back at their cat, regardless of whether or not we understand what they are saying?

You Dog Might Remember More Than You Think!

“I remember the time I knew what happiness was
Let the memory live again”

The words may be from the musical Cats, but with new research about dogs’ memories, someone may want to create a new musical.

A recent article in The Washington Post reports on research findings that dogs may have episodic-like memory similar to humans.  While they can’t actually know what the dogs are thinking (after all, The Secret Life of Pets is only a movie), their research shows that dogs can remember what their humans do even if the dog doesn’t need to know the action.

The study, published by Current Biology, tested the dogs’ memory by first training the dogs to “do what I do” and then, after the dogs performed correctly, increased the time between the action and telling them to do it. Two time intervals were tested: 1 minute and 1 hour.

While the dogs memory was better after only one minute (60% of dogs performed the action) and did decrease after an hour, a number of them (35%) were still able to recall and perform the action they were initially taught to imitate.

The Washington Post article quotes study author Claudia Fugazza as saying that most dog owners probably already realize that their dogs have memories. “What is new and important” she says, “is that dogs can remember events even if those events do not seem to be important.”

Dog and Cat Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are upon us and we all have the spirit of giving; that includes our precious pets as well.

Barkbox- When you subscribe to Barkbox, you are signing your pooch up to receive a monthly gift that includes 4-6 toys, treats, and other goodies. Your furry companion will love receiving gifts each month. Barkbox gifts start at just $20 a month.  https://barkbox.com/

Cat Dancer Wand This simple toy is sure to be a kitty pleaser! The cat dancer wand is a great way to keep your kitty busy and for you to interact with them as well! Simply wave the wand around and watch your kitty chase it. http://www.catdancer.com/cat-dancer-cat-charmer-2/#.WEhcfrIrLcc

Cat GPS tracker- PawTrack- Ever wonder where your outdoor kitty goes when they take a stroll? Now you can follow them, without disrupting their walk. The PawTrack takes positions every six minutes as your cat roams.  This information is stored on the cat tracking collar and uploaded to the server. The information can then be viewed on any internet-enabled device or computer.  This GPS tracker is able to track multiple cats and can give images on google maps including street view.  You can also set boundaries for your cat and will be alerted when your cat wanders outside of these areas.  You will receive alerts when the collar’s battery level has reached critical, so you’ll never have to worry about not being able to track. http://pawtrack.com/

Kitnip box- Just like the Barkbox for your pooch, you can order your kitty a monthly subscription to toys, all natural treats, and healthy cat products. In previous boxes, cats have received handmade catnip bells, caterpillar kicker, play-n-squeak mouse and Zuke’s G –Zees Tender Grain-Free Treats. Multi-cat boxes are also available, so no ones left out! https://www.kitnipbox.com/

Pet Chatz- You can now stay in touch virtually with your furry companion via Pet Chatz. This allows you to call your pet while you are away and video chat with them. Your pet is able to see you, hear you, and receive a treat all through a computer, tablet, or smart phone. You can also use a special accessory that allows your pet to call you. Pet Chatz makes it seem like the time away from your pets is a little shorter.  https://petchatz.com/

What do you plan to give your pet this holiday season?

(Morris Animal Inn is offering these as suggestions of types of products your pets may like.  It's always good to research specific products carefully for appropriateness for your particular pet.)

My Cat Sleeps on Me... Why?

Do you wonder why your cat prefers to sleep on you when most of the time they are independent? Let's try to figure this out. 

According to a recent survey of pet owners by the American Pet Products Association, 62% of cats sleep with their adult owners, and another 13% of cats sleep with children. 

Felines have a fantastic sense of smell, so they know their owner's scent. Perhaps your cat snuggles with you because the familiar scent of you provides them with a sense of contentment.  

Could it be warmth? Cats prefer to sleep in warm places. Maybe your body heat is an attraction. This might explain why cats sleep on their owner's heads. Most of the heat escapes from our heads.

Maybe it's a sense of security. Typically cats sleep up to 16 hours a day. They are most vulnerable during sleep so the place your cat opts to take a nap must be a secure and trusted location. It's a compliment when a cat has several choices of places to sleep and they choose you as their favorite sleep spot.

Comfort is a possible reason. Cats seem to understand when someone is ill or in pain. Therefore, they want to be close to their owner if they sense they are sick or in pain.

In the end, cats can and do bond with their favorite human. Perhaps it is love and companionship that brings your kitty to sleep on you.  

Source: Vetstreet.com, Pets.webmd.com, Cats.about.com 

Would you like Tap or Filtered Water?

Did you know that water is essential for almost every function an animal's body performs?

Water carries nutrients in and out of the body, aids in digestion, maintains body temperature and even cushions joints to make movement easier.

The recommended daily amounts of water required will vary based on the size of the animal and health on environmental factors, but a good rule of thumb is to provide water for your pet at all times. If your pet needs encouragement, some pet suppliers offer special dispensers and fountains to entice drinking.

Morris Animal Inn has recently added a water filtration system to provide an even higher quality of water for our pet guests. 

Morris Animal Inn also utilizes pet-friendly shampoos, conditioners, laundry detergents and cleaning products. Providing the water filtration system was an easy decision to always have the best available for our guests!

Source: http://www.peteducation.com, http://www.allaboutwater.org,  http://www.nrdc.org, WaterFilters.net, https://www.usdaa.com, http://animalhealings.com

How to Pet Proof Your Home

October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month. Providing a safe environment for your furry friends is important. Here are some ways you can keep your treasured family members safe from potential hazards in your home.

Keep wires out of reach

Keep any cords or wires out of reach from your pet. A curious puppy or kitten may chew on an electrical cord while playing. Check around your televisions, lamps and other items for any loose cords.

Avoid toxic foods

Many snacks that you may have in your pantry can be toxic to your pet. Foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins are dangerous and should be kept out of reach of our pet.

Lock up cleaning supplies

Place items such as cleaning supplies, detergents, and medications on high shelves. Keep vitamins and other pills off of kitchen counters and bedside tables.

Be aware of harmful plants

Many indoor plants can be toxic to your pet. Learn which plants are potentially poisonous. Place dangerous ones out of reach or choose nontoxic plants.  

Keep the toilet lid down

Bathrooms and toilets can be a dangerous area for your pet. If your dog or cat drinks out of the toilet, they could be ingesting harmful chemicals. Keep the toilet lid down and keep the bathroom door closed. 

Check the washer and dryer

Your pet may see the dryer as a warm and cozy place to take a nap. Be sure to check before turning your washer or dryer on, and keep appliance doors closed at all times.

Invest in a pet gate

Puppies and kittens especially like to investigate everything. To keep your pet from getting into any trouble, consider a child-safety or pet gate. This will allow you to keep an eye on them, as well as keep them out of any items or areas that are not safe.

Have a pet first aid kit on hand 

A pet first-aid kit is very helpful in case anything should happen to your pet. This should include items such as phone numbers for your veterinarian and a poison-control center, a nylon leash, gauze pads, and a blanket. Check out The Humane Society's full list of Pet first-aid kit supplies. 

Your pets health is a top priority at Morris Animal Inn. We constantly strive to be the safest, most comfortable and welcoming pet care facility for dogs and cats of all sizes and personalities.  Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with around the clock sanitation, climate control and air purification, 24-hour security and camera surveillance, and accredited staff that meet the standards set by the Outstanding Pet Care Learning Center. To learn more about the amenities we offer, or to tour our amazing facility, visit www.morrisanimalinn.com or call (973)-539-0377.

Source: Peteducation.com, ApartmentTherapy.com, RightAtHome.com, HumaneSociety.org, Houzz.com, AmericanHumane.org