Take a Hike! Tips for Hitting the Trails with Your Dog

There’s nothing like a nice, long hike with your dog. Cooler fall days make for perfect hiking weather, meaning there is no better time than now to take to the trails. There are, however, some precautions that you should take in order to make sure you and your pup are safe. Here are some essential tips that you should follow whenever you bring your pooch hiking or on a long outdoor adventure.

Make sure that your dog is wearing an ID tag: If your pooch runs off, proper contact information is crucial. All ID tags should list the following things:

• Pets name
• Your cell phone number
• Additional contact number 
• Hometown: This way, if your dog is lost, anyone who finds them will know how far your dog is from home.
• Medical issues and/or medicines: If they are lost and no one can contact you, this is vital information for whoever found them to know.

Make sure your dog is in good physical condition, and respect your dog’s limits: Start small and work up to bigger hikes..

Find a good, dog friendly trail: Some hiking trails aren’t dog friendly, including a good amount of trails in National Parks, so do your research before you go.

Hike during the cool parts of the day: Morning and late afternoon or evening are the coolest times of day. Your best bet is to get on the trail as early as possible so you aren’t walking during the midday heat. 

Pack plenty of water: Dogs don’t sweat, so they will need water to keep them hydrated throughout your hike. Stop frequently to give your dog water breaks and remember not to let your dog drink from ponds, lakes, streams or any natural bodies of water you may come across. These are breeding grounds for bacteria that could make your dog sick.

Bring a properly packed hiking kit: It’s always good to carry items that your dog may need while on a hike, including:

• Treats: Always have rewards for your dog easily accessible. Whether you’re passing an aggressive dog, a person who doesn’t like dogs or another animal or stimuli in the woods, treats are an easy way to get your dog’s attention and distract them.
• Water: So important, it’s worth mentioning twice! Make sure your pooch stays hydrated throughout the hike.
• First Aid Kit: First aid kits aren't only for humans! Trails are full of sharp rocks and sticks that your dog may not be used to walking on.  A kit will help provide temporary care in case of emergency.
• Air Horn: Should you get injured or need assistance on your hike, an air horn is always good to have on hand to get the attention of nearby hikers or rescue teams. There is also research that shows air horns may ward off curious bears, so especially for hiking in New Jersey, which has a high black bear population, carrying an airhorn is always a safe bet.
• Cell Phone: Your phone is essential on a hike not only for safety, but for a lot of great apps with the ability to show you trail maps and track your hike. 

Ask permission before letting your dog approach anyone, humans or dogs: Not all people or dogs are friendly, so it is always better to be safe than sorry. Even if your dog loves everyone, it doesn’t mean that everyone will love your dog.

Make sure your dog isn’t eating plants along the trail: Keep an eye on your dog at all times! There are plants in the area that can be poisonous to pets if ingested. To prevent any issues, it’s best if your dog doesn’t eat anything found in the woods on your hike.

Prepare yourself for ticks and fleas, and check your dog after your walk: Make sure you thoroughly check your dog after every walk in order to make sure they are free of tick and fleas. If you do find them make sure you treat the problem right away.

Pick up after your dog! Just because you are in the woods doesn’t mean you don’t have to clean up after your dog. If your dog eliminates, pick it up. Leave a clean environment for future hikers and their pets; many dog diseases are spread through feces, so it’s best not to leave anything behind.

Following these simple tips can mean a safe fun hike for both you and your pooch. Remember to use your best judgment on the trail and to always pay close attention to what your dog is trying to tell you. Safe hiking!

Source: ASPCA & REI 

Autumn Safety Tips for Your Pets

Summer is surely coming to an end -- the kids are back to school and the days will slowly become shorter and cooler. The end of the sweltering heat isn’t always a bad thing! Autumn is a great time for some outdoor adventures with your pet; the air is crisp and there is nothing better than rolling in a pile of red and gold leaves together. Just like any other time of year, the start of the new season brings new risks for your pet.

Here are a few risks to be aware of in the upcoming season:

Back to School Supplies. Items in your kid’s pencil box like glue sticks, pencils and magic markers are considered “low toxicity” to pets, which means they're unlikely to cause serious problems unless they ingest large amounts! However, since gastrointestinal upset and blockages certainly are possible, be sure your children keep their school supplies out of paw's reach!

Rodenticides. As rodents seek shelter from the cooler temperatures by attempting to move indoors, the use of rodenticides increases in the fall. Rodenticides are highly toxic to pets—if ingested, the results could be fatal. If you must use these products, do so with extreme caution and put them in places inaccessible to your pets.

Mushrooms. Unfortunately, most of the highly toxic mushrooms are difficult to distinguish from the nontoxic ones, so it’s best to keep them away from all mushrooms. Be especially cautious of parasol-shaped mushrooms and all small brown mushrooms. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can range from mild vomiting and diarrhea to severe digestive problems to complete liver failure.

Grumpy Snakes. Autumn is the season when snakes who are preparing for hibernation may be particularly “grumpy,” increasing the possibility of severe bites to those unlucky pups who find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Pet owners should know what kinds of venomous snakes may be in their environment—and where these snakes are most likely to be found—so they can keep pets out of those areas.

Engine Coolant. Many people choose fall as the time to change their car's engine coolant. Ethylene glycol-based coolants are highly toxic, so spills should be cleaned up immediately. Consider switching to propylene glycol-based coolants—though they aren't completely nontoxic, they are much less toxic than other engine coolants.

Bonfires. Fall is a great time to snuggle up around a bonfire. However, fire can be a great danger for your curious pets. Make sure that you close up your fireplaces, block off any fire pits, and keep your pet away from the spark zone.

Heating Devices. If you use an indoor electric heater in your home when it starts to get chilly, be sure that you turn it off each and every time you leave the house in order to keep your pet safe from any potential accidents or house fires.

Hunting. October is the peak season for hunting. Make sure both you and your pet are wearing proper bright colors to ward off any hunters in your area! If your pets are allowed to be outside unsupervised, make sure they are unable to wander into a hunting zone.

Source: ASPCA, PetAg, Agway

Weekend Getaways for you and your pet!

Fall is the perfect time for a weekend getaway! Enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while taking in some crisp, autumn air and beautiful scenery. Don't worry about where Fido and Kitty will stay, we'd love to have them spend their vacation here at Morris Animal Inn!

Why lodge your pet with us?

When pets remain at home while you're away, they wonder where you've gone. Why not let them have a vacation as well? We'll keep them busy with our many amenities and activities! With the love, attention and exercise they receive at Morris Animal Inn, your pet will come home both happy and tired. While you're away let us spoil your furry friend!

Our Amenities

The Inn's dog lodging wing offers our canine visitors comfortable sleeping areas with  plush lambs' wool bedding and a professionally trained team of animal caregivers.

Aqua Massage and Splish Splash sessions in our indoor pool are available year-round for your four-legged family member! Activities such as Pampered Pets Sessions and walks on our nature trail may be customized to your pet's needs.

Morris Animal Inn offers group play sessions for dog-friendly dogs on our outdoor playground. Your dog can romp and play in the fresh air with other dogs who are matched by size and play-style. All groups are supervised by staff trained in group dynamics, and average a 5 to 1 dog to counselor ratio. Private daycare with a staff member is also available for the dog who prefers the company of people.  

                                                                                     

                                                                                     Cat Lodging

 

More of a cat person? Our luxury cat lodging includes both condos and suites for your kitty's leisure. Some of these comfy cat lodging areas even include a TV for their viewing and entertainment! Our Kitty Playroom gives your cat free roam in our beautifully designed play room with climbing and scratching posts, skylight for outside view, toys, catnip, and furniture. Your kitty can take part in play sessions with a staff member, and "kitty walks" in our unique, enclosed Kitty SUV.

At Morris Animal Inn we do everything in our power to make sure our guests are treated like royalty! We provide your pets with a home away from home. While you pamper yourself, allow us to pamper your pets! Stop by for a tour with our talented and knowledgeable Client Care staff! Call 973-539-0377 with any questions you may have and to make a reservation.

A Dog-gone Good Time with Dog Walks/Runs this Fall

Looking for fun and active ways to spend time with your dog this fall? What better way than to participate in a dog walk? It's a great way to enjoy the beautiful autumn weather while supporting a canine cause! We've put together a list of upcoming local dog walks.

Mutts Marathon - September 16, 2012 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM

400 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ

The Mutts Marathon benefits the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge Inc.

Activities include a Dog Walk, Dog Costume Contest, parade, vendors, a BBQ and more!

19th Annual “Grateful” Dog Walk & Pet Fair - October 6, 2012 from 10:00AM to 3:00PM

Brookdale Community College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ

The entrant with the most pledges for the "Grateful" Dog Walk will be featured as the 2013 Honorary Chairdog in next year’s logo, on t-shirts, bandanas, promos and billboards throughout Monmouth County!

16th Annual Hounds and Harriers Run - October 7, 2012 at 9:30AM

South Mountain Reservation, Crest Drive, South Orange/Millburn, NJ

This 3 mile run takes place on shaded park roads. Many prizes will be awarded by size of dog, veteran dog and more! A Paws from the Past run will also take place for those older dogs who can no longer run 3 miles due to age or disability.

St. Hubert's 5K-9 Run & Walk - October 13, 2012 from 9:30AM to 12:00PM

434 South Street, Morristown, NJ

Benefitting the St. Huberts Animal Welfare Center, the 5K-9 run and walk is 3.1 miles long and takes place on the trails of Loantaka Park in Morris Township. Entrants receive a T-shirt, dog bandana, and goody bag while supplies last.

FOSRAS Heart & Sole Shelter Walk - October 14, 2012 from 10:00AM to 2:00PM

Duke Island Park, Bridgewater, NJ

This 3 mile will take place in the Apple Grove Section of Duke Island Park. Top fundraiser will receive a $250.00 gift card and second pace will receive a $100.00 gift card!

9th Annual Dog Walk - October 14, 2012 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM

Community Park North Brunswick, Route 130 South, North Brunswick, NJ

This event is rain or shine and activities include a Dog Walk, games and a costume contest!

2012 Howl and Hike Dog Walk and Family Fun Day - October 14, 2012 from 12:00PM to 4:00PM

Horseshoe Lake, Succasunna, NJ

Along with the scenic trip around the lake, this entertaining day includes crafts and games for all, the Bow Wow Bazaar with vendor shopping, the Pet-I-Cure Boutique for the Pooch Spa, the Smooch A Pooch Booth for some doggie kisses and Adoption Alley to meet pets for adoption.

Bark for Life of Morristown - October 27, 2012 from 12:00PM to 3:00PM

Sunrise Lake, Lewis Morris Park, 270 Mendham Road, Morristown, NJ

This non-competitive dog walk and event is in an effort to raise funds & awareness in the fight against cancer.

FIDO'S FAVORITE FALL HIKING

Fall is one of the finest seasons! The air becomes brisk and cool, the humidity settles down (as does our hair) and nature has its last hurrah with a vibrant burst of warm colors before the muted tones of winter settle in. Now is the perfect time to view the earthy hues. You don’t need to travel far to experience it. Lace up your hiking boots and step into the wilderness of New Jersey (yes it exists) with Fido in tow.  Not only is this a wonderful way to pass a fall day, but it is a great form of exercise and will help you and your canine companion work up a healthy sweat. We’ve got the low-down on some of the best hiking trails for you and your dog in Northern Jersey. The following places allow canines as long as they are leashed.

Morristown National Historic Park, Morristown

Not only does this park contain beautiful glimpses of the fall foliage but you can enjoy a dose of history as well. The park is made up of three sites: Fort Nonsense, Jockey Hollow and the Ford Mansion (which dogs are not allowed in). This was where General George Washington and the Continental Army camped out during the grueling and bitter winter of 1779-1780. At Jockey Hollow, you can walk around and explore the huts the soldiers built. This spot was chosen because of its vantage point high on the hill, allowing the army to catch sight of the British if they tried a sneak attack. You can also walk around Tempe Wick’s house which is where General Arthur St. Clair stayed during the winter of 1779. Though your dog may not appreciate the historical aspects of this park, he or she will enjoy the park’s easy walking trails.

Photo Courtesy of OakleyOriginals



Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area, Boonton

This reservation has gorgeous scenery and interesting and unusual geological formations to see. For instance, the park is well known for Tripod Rock, a 160 ton boulder that rests atop three smaller rocks and has remained perfectly balanced for centuries. This rock is known as a glacial erratic because it was moved to this spot by the force of glaciers.

Hacklebarney State Park, Long Valley

The Black River runs through this park and is good for fishing at any time of year. Hemlock trees line the winding hilly trails that offer beautiful views of the river, its estuaries and small waterfalls. Wooden tables placed throughout the park make it easy for an impromptu picnic. These trails are more difficult than the trails at Jockey Hollow.

Watchung Reservation, Watchung

In total, there are 13 miles of marked trails to enjoy throughout this reservation. Sights to see are Lake Surprise, the Deserted Village or Feltsville which is great for a scary Halloween themed hike. You can also see Seeley’s Pond, and a large, beautiful pine forest that was planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s. The reservation meanders between the ridges of the Watchung Mountains. 

There is no better way to enjoy the fall season than by heading out to the woods for a hike with your dog. Just make sure to watch out for ticks. Thoroughly scan you and your dog’s body after your hike. Continue to use tick preventative products like Frontline, even in the colder months. Morris Animal Inn carries Frontline so stock up if you need to. Remember to keep your dog leashed at all times during your hikes as it is a requirement at these parks. With these tips in mind, you and Fido are set to head into nature with nothing but the crunch of leaves beneath your feet and the golden amber foliage above.

SAFETY TIPS FOR HOWL-O-WEEN

The pumpkins are carved; the seeds have been roasted; the candy bowls are full; the cobwebs strategically draped; the kids' costumes have been made or bought and you are just about to kick back with some witches brew... but wait! What about your own little Cujo? In all the double, double toil and trouble of your preparations, it's easy to overlook your pets at Halloween. For others, Fido and Fluffy take center stage this time of year in costumes that are more elaborate than those at Mardi Gras in Rio. Whichever way your dog factors into your Halloween plans, we have some important tips for you to keep in mind on this spooky day.

Trick or Treat!

The amount of candy we generally keep on hand for Halloween night is enough to send anyone into a sugar coma. Bowls line the coffee table in the living room awaiting the trick or treaters and within easy reach of your dog’s curious nose. It’s not only kids that can get sick from too many sweets. Your own pup can suffer as well, specifically if his or her wet nose happens to find the chocolate candy. Baking chocolate or dark chocolate with higher concentrations of cacao are more likely to harm your pet than sweeter varieties like milk chocolate. Since you are unlikely to be handing out baking chocolate to kids, you have less to worry about, but eating chocolate in any quantity is unhealthy for a dog. Small amounts of milk chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea. For a 50 lb dog, a toxic amount of milk chocolate would be around 50 oz. Tell family members not to share any chocolate or candy with pets.  Another ingredient to watch out for is xylitol, a sweetener found in candy, mints, and gum. This artificial sweetener can be fatal if ingested or cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Because you can never be sure how much chocolate or candy your dog has consumed, always consult your veterinarian to be on the safe side.

Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble

Carved lit pumpkins look beautiful and eerie on a cold autumn night. Just make sure you keep your Jack-O-Lanterns outside in a location where Fido and Fluffy can’t run into them and potentially knock them over, creating a fire hazard. Another thing to be aware of is alcohol which tends to be on hand at Halloween parties. Keep your bubbly brew away from fuzzy friends.

Photo Courtesy of Hello Turkey Toe



Ding Dong

With the constant knocking on your door and ringing of your doorbell, it's enough to annoy any good-natured Halloween fan, but imagine the stress it causes your cat or dog who feels it's their duty to protect the house. In addition, the frightening costumes that trick or treaters wear can scare Fido. Even dogs that are generally well-behaved may react differently to strangers at the door dressed in monstrous outfits. Since the door will be continuously opened and closed, there is the chance your dog or cat may bolt. To avoid this situation, keep your pet contained in a crate or enclosed in another room. If it makes you feel safer, have them spend the night at Morris Animal Inn.

Canine Costumes

Your dog or cat does not care whether you choose to dress him or her as Lady Gaga or a bumblebee. As long as your pet gets to play the day away and enjoy some canine snacks, he or she will be content and happy. But if you have a pet that freezes in place or hides whenever you put a winter coat on them, dressing your buddy up may not be a good idea. Don’t force it simply for your own enjoyment; respect the comfort wishes of your canine companion. If your pet is willing to be dressed, make sure the costume is safe. Long parts that flow and can easily trip your pet or get stuck, can cause a hazardous situation. Avoid elaborate costumes with choking hazards or other unsafe attachments. If your dog likes getting dressed up or wants to play the day away, make sure to attend our MUTTster Mash on Friday, October 28th to enjoy all of our canine Halloween themed activities like our Costume Pet Parade. There will be pet portraits of your pup in costume that you can buy from our Shutterfly site.

If you keep these tips in mind, your Howl-O-Ween is sure to be spooktacular!

Autumnal Events for the Dog Lover

Autumn officially begins this Friday the 23^rd. We have already felt its upcoming arrival with temperatures this week and last week dipping into the low 50s. But we truly know fall is upon us when the flannel sheets are taken out to keep us warm at night, pumpkin lattes become the beverage of choice, and leaves and acorns crunch under our feet. Though fall can turn the landscape into a scenic painting, the colder weather can cause some of us to begin our hibernation early, holing up in our warm houses with mugs of apple cider. There’s nothing wrong with that, it happens to be one of the best features of fall. But what about Fido? How can you keep the carefree nature of summer that your pets enjoyed so much going into the cooler months? Not a problem! There are a slew of fall-themed dog events happening this season and we’ve got the low-down!

Puptoberfest

Fall wouldn’t be the same without this popular canine event! Now in its seventh year, this Eleventh Hour Rescue event has become an autumnal staple of the season. Originally created as a reunion for the shelter’s adopters, it has grown into something much more! This year’s fest will include fun activities, food, music, entertainment, and of course dogs, dogs and more dogs! Additionally, Puptoberfest will feature a bevy of animal friendly vendors including our sister company Morris K9 Campus! Stop by and say hi!

When: 9/24/11  11:00AM-5:00PM

Where: Craigmeur Recreation Complex, Rockaway, NJ

Strong Dogs Day
This is the Somerset Hills YMCA's second year hosting this event which they hope encourages people to get outside and exercise with their dog. There will be a blessing of the dogs at 11:00AM followed by a community dog walk. Games, contests, and prizes will keep the fun going for hours! Stop by Morris Animal Inn's table for free gifts!
When: 9/24/11 10:00AM-1:00PM
Where: Somerset Hills YMCA 140 Mt. Airy Rd Basking Ridge, NJ

Howl N' Hike

Help Noah’s Ark raise funds for their animal shelter this October! Sign up to walk around scenic Horseshoe Lake with your furry companion and other dog owners. Make sure to raise funds ahead of time by collecting pledges from family members, friends, co-workers and anyone who wants to support a good cause. Turn in your pledges the day of the event. The top three people to gather the most pledges, will win awesome prizes! Other activities will include a canine athletics demo, Pet Costume Parade, Jack-O-Lantern Carving Contest, Microchip Clinic, and Adoption Alley that will put adorable pets looking for their forever homes on display!

When: 10/16/11   12:00PM-4:00PM

Where: Horseshoe Lake, Succasunna NJ

Morris K9 Campus Fall Festival: Tips, Tricks and Tails

This exciting event will be held by our sister company, Morris K9 Campus. Festivities will feature flying disc demos, agility demos, doggie dancing, a K9 Costume Parade, “Ask the Trainer” and more! There will be refreshments for dogs and people, prizes, and amazing giveaways! Pick up a key at Morris K9 Campus to see if you can unlock the prizes inside the Haunted Treasure Chest. You just might win a $100 mall gift certificate or a Kindle, among other prizes! Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of unopened dog or cat food to help feed shelter animals in the area. There will also be on-site dog and cat adoptions from local area shelters such as Eleventh Hour Rescue, Noah’s Ark, and the Randolph Pound.

When: 10/23/11 12:00PM-4:00PM

Where: Morris K9 Campus 1 Aspen Drive, Randolph, NJ

The weather might be getting cooler but dog festivals are just beginning to heat up! So go ahead and sip that cider but don’t forget to take advantage of the temperature dip. This type of weather makes outdoor activities easier on your pet. So make sure to attend these events with Fido in tow!

Other Fall Events (Not Dog Specific)
Morristown Festival on the Green
When: 10/2/11  12:00AM-5:00PM
Where: The Morristown Green and surrounding area

Bernardsville Unity Day
When: 10/1/11  11:00AM-5:00PM
Where: Nervine Memorial Park, Bernardsville, NJ
Morris Animal Inn will have a table at these events! Please stop by, say hello, and win a free giveaway. We would love to see you!