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. 

Why a Dog's Hair Turns Gray at a Young Age

Many of us have been there--finding that lone gray hair that signals to us a change. While we humans associate graying hair with getting older, in dogs, graying hair can signal loneliness.

Yes, loneliness.

According to a recent article on CNN, the anxiety and stress of being alone can contribute to dogs' fur turning gray prematurely. Dogs who are anxious, according to the research cited, may whine or bark when left alone.

The study that the article reports on even surprised one of the researchers. The Chicago Tribune reports that Northern Illinois University professor Thomas Smith was skeptical at first, but once the data was collected, he saw how stressed dogs were prematurely gray. It was also found that female dogs were more likely to gray than male dogs.

The dogs in the study were from the ages of one to four. Pet owners with dogs in this age range who might be concerned about their dog’s level of anxiety can check with their veterinarian or a dog trainer to help alleviate the anxiety. Other suggestions are to not leave the dog alone for so long each day—Perhaps a dog daycare provider that can provide the dog with care and attention.

Dogs are often not only great companions, but a big part of a family, and need care just like humans do. 

Doggie Daycare Parties for a Worthy Cause



Canines in Cancun Doggie Daycare will be
complete with souvenir photos and non-
alcoholic doggie beers to take home!



We’re getting our fiesta on! Tomorrow is our Canines in Cancun Daycare event, complete with swimming, souvenirs, photos, and of course, festive snacks. As we pamper our guests with canine quesadillas, we will also be collecting food for our human friends to donate to Morris County’s own Interfaith Food Pantry.

 

Interfaith’s goal is twofold; to provide access to food, nutrition education and resources for people in need and to educate the public about hunger issues and how to help. At Morris Animal Inn, we’ve set our own goal of giving back whenever we can. This time, we are proud to help contribute to the Interfaith Food Pantry’s important mission by turning Canines in Cancun into Canines with a Cause.

In the past, we’ve raised donations for a range of organizations, from fellow animal supporters to non-profits, including: Saint Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, Eleventh Hour Rescue, Make-A-Wish New Jersey and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Our guests have gone above and beyond to help us make an impact for these worthy causes, all of which are in need of our support.

Many food pantries often experience unbalanced donations. Interfaith sees an influx of contributions around the holiday season, for example, but less during this time of year. We encourage our guests to help us break this cycle by bringing non-perishable food items between 7 am and 7 pm tomorrow, Thursday, March 14. Every soup can, box of pasta and jar of peanut butter counts! For more information on what Interfaith Food Pantry needs most, visit http://www.mcifp.org/currentneeds.htm. Bring your donations and join us for a virgin margarita toast as we celebrate Canines in Cancun.

Call to register for Canines in Cancun today : 973-539-0377

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.

I'm Still Here...But a Slim, Trim, More Active Ginger

It's me, Ginger and I have some good news.... I began the fitness program at Morris Animal Inn on June 4 at 91.6 lbs and 30 inches around the waist. As of today, I am at 82 lbs and a slim 26 inches around my waist. Whoo hoo! Look at me now...

I have so much energy. If you adopt me, I will run with you, play with you, give you kisses and make sure that you know I appreciate you. If you are interested in adopting me, please contact Eleventh Hour Rescue at (973) 664-0865 or visit the Eleventh Hour Rescue website for more information. 

GOOD DOG!

Our Manners Training Program has really taken off and is getting fabulous feedback. If your still wondering what our Manners Training program can offer you, check out this video to see some of the skills your dog will master. Manners Training can be added as a package to your dog's overnight stay or as a daycare option. Good dog is only a stay away!

MEET OUR MANNERS PROGRAM LEADERS!

Lisa (left) and Michelle (right) with some of their canine students

We recently launched our new Manners Training program! This new activity package and daycare option offers a variation to your dog's stay, with group and individual manners sessions tied in with walks and play times. So your dog gets to play and learn! Combining mental and physical stimulation, your dog gets the best of both worlds!

Leading this exciting new program are long time Morris Animal Inn staffers, Lisa and Michelle.

Michelle VanWinkle, Program Leader

Q: What is your background working with dogs?
A:   In 2009, I graduated from the Tom Rose School for Professional Dog Trainers, a nationally recognized school, studying dog behavior and training for over a year. After earning my Associates, Professional, and Masters Dog Training Certification, and graduating first in the class, I owned and operated my own dog training business for four years. I have experience training different breeds, ages and temperaments in the avenues of general obedience; agility; competition and much more. I am an active competitor in many dog sports including AKC, PSA, French Ring, Shutzhund and IPO. I have been nationally recognized with my own dogs, Xander, a Belgian Malinois and Gracie, a Golden Retriever, for competition obedience and apprehension. I've worked with local shelter dogs teaching general obedience to improve their chances of finding a new home. I have been with Morris Animal Inn for five years in various positions including Activities staff, Group Play Evaluator, Lodging staff and am currently the Manners and Fitness Program Leader.

Q: Could you describe Morris Animal Inn's Manners Training program in your own words?
A: Our program teaches general obedience commands with real life distractions. Using the most up-to-date and humane training approach, the program allows for clear communication and creates a dog that loves to learn. Teaching your pet manners is crucial because it opens doors to a lasting bond between canine and owner.

Q: What do you believe is the most important skill to teach a dog?
A: The most important command for a dog to learn is to come. Every year, countless canines are lost because they never learned this basic command. For the safety of our pets, this is an important and necessary skill to teach.

Q: What is your main goal when training a dog?
A: My goal is to help enhance the healthy, happy relationship owners already have with their dog and to help make their dog a more enjoyable and respected member of the family.

Lisa Kaune, Program Leader

Q: What is your background working with dogs?
A: I've been an animal lover my whole life and professionally working with dogs for five years, first as a Lodging Team Leader at Morris Animal Inn and now as a Program Leader for the Manners and Fitness programs. After heavily researching dog behavior and psychology along with spending countless hours training my two dogs, Zeke, a black lab and Archu, a shepherd mix, I have successfully trained them both. Eventually, I would like to participate in the sport of Competitive Obedience. 

Q: What is the most important message to get across to those who are interested in this program?
A: Learning is a journey, not a destination. We will give the dog the foundation in manners but best results are achieved with consistent reinforcement at home. In doing this, the dog has a clear understanding of what is expected from him/her.

Q: What is your dog training philosophy?
A: My dog training philosophy is pretty simple - clear communication. Too often people assume that dogs just automatically understand what is expected from them. This is, of course, not the case. It must be taught and reinforced over and over again. The same commands must be used everytime and by every member in the household.

Reservations are now being accepted. Call us today! 

ANNOUNCING OUR NEW ACTIVITY PACKAGES!

Morris Animal Inn is excited to announce two new activity packages!  We know that every pet is different! That's why we are working to increase your options with new packages that can be added to any dog's stay (we have other specific play options available for cats). This allows you to choose what Fido would prefer. Read on to discover Fido's options!

Manners and Obedience Training

Improve your dog's manners and general obedience through positive training! You've spent hours training your pooch and now you're going on vacation for two weeks! Might as well kiss those lessons goodbye. Not anymore! With this selection, you can add several daily training sessions to your dog's stay. Not only will this reinforce your dog's manners, but it will break up their day and add mental stimulation. For dog's that have never been trained, this is a great option to go over basic commands. Manners training is also perfect for puppies and can be added a la carte to our Puppy Steps program.  When your canine companion is not training, they can move their muscles with "business walks" on our shaded trail where they can stop to smell the roses!

Health and Fitness

Our health and fitness packages are great for any dog but especially canines with boundless energy or those needing to shed a few pounds. Your dog's day will be active with activities like canine cardio sessions. Canine cardio sessions are customized to your dog's preference and can include our canine treadmill. When not splish splashing in our pool, playing with other dogs, exercising on the canine treadmill or enjoying a serene trail walk, your furry pal can relax on a raised bed while munching on a healthy treat.

Whether large or small, old or young, these new activity packages are great for any dog's stay!

Pet Preparedness

At Morris Animal Inn, we believe that preparing for unpleasant situations can result in much more positive outcomes, so add pet preparedness to your to-do list for spring cleaning this year. Here are some tips to ensure the safety of the furriest members of your family no matter what comes your way.

A Home Away from Home

Before disaster strikes, have a game plan. Figure out ahead of time where you and your family can go with pets in tow. Have a list of potential places where your pet is welcome to stay, such as Morris Animal Inn or if necessary, the homes of friends and family who live outside the area. Be sure to ask ahead how last-minute reservations or drop-ins will be handled so there are no surprises.

Even if you're faced with a routine power outage, you can count on Morris Animal Inn to keep your pet comfortable with our back-up generators!

Stock up on Supplies

Once you have devised a back-up lodging plan, its important to have the necessary provisions and tools ready to go so you can get going quickly. Create and store your own Pet Emergency Kit containing Fluffy and Fido's essentials for up to two weeks:

http://www.dogtipper.com

• Ample supply of dry and wet food in air tight containers. (Switch the food out every month or so to make sure it doesn't spoil.)
• An extra leash, collar, and stash of poop bags 
• A small water and food bowl
• Medicines (Again, switch it out every month to ensure it doesn't go bad.)
• A box of kitty litter and an aluminum tray
• A handful of extra toys 
• A carrier for each of your pets padded with an extra bed, towels, or a soft blanket that smells of home
• Bottled water
• A basic first aid kit
• Vet records (Store in the same safe secure place that you keep important family documents like passports.)

Keep these necessities in a spot that’s high off the ground and close to a door or in the garage so they’re readily accessible when you need them.

magicmonkey via flickr
http://www.flickr.com/photos/magickevin/

Identification Safeguards

It is important to keep identification on your pets at all time, and your options go beyond an ID tag on the collar. Microchipping is a simple procedure performed by your vet that’s similar to receiving a shot. The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under your pet’s skin between the shoulders. You might also consider tying a small bell to your pet’s collar to make it easier to find Fluffy or Fido when time is of the essence. Additionally, placing a pet fire safety decal in the window of the room your pets favor will alert rescuers of their presence in an unfavorable situation. If you’d like a free fire rescue sticker for your pet, please just stop by the front desk and mention you read this week’s post!

For detailed information and additional tips for preparing your pet for a disaster, take a look at this video from Ready.gov:

Though it is difficult to imagine how we would handle an emergency situation, taking the time to create a smart and safe back-up plan will always pay off with the protection of your beloved pet.

What other preventative measures have you devised to ensure your pets’ safety?

Sources: http://dogs.about.com/od/toyssupplies/a/microchipping.htm

Catster.com http://blogs.catster.com/the-cats-meow-a-cat-and-kitten-blog/five-tips-that-will-save-your-cats-life-in-a-disaster/2011/04/02/

Do You Need a Puppy Break?

Warm, cuddly, adorable: these adjectives perfectly describe the joy of puppies and are often the driving force behind our motivation to bring these furry bundles of happiness into our lives. However, there may be certain days when you just can’t seem to find the time to keep up with their boundless energy or the messes they leave around your house. Or, you might decide to travel and need a safe place to leave your puppy. Fortunately, we have the perfect solution.

Did you know you can drop your pup off at Morris Animal Inn and we'll take over where you left off? Our specially tailored Puppy Steps Program is designed to meet the needs of your growing little pal. Developed for puppies less than seven months old with their with completed vaccine series, the program strives to supply them with as much attention and activity as they require!

Playful Pups

Does your puppy seem like the Energizer Bunny, a force that never stops moving?  Puppy Steps helps to release all that boundless energy with four business walks on our nature trail to get her young body moving and establish a proper elimination routine. To acclimate your baby pooch to other humans, we also provide two Pampered Pet Sessions that allow her to interact with our staff in a variety of activities from ball time to cuddles. Knowing that puppies’ teeth are still in the process of growing, Room Service will present your pup with a wholesome Bizzy Bone treat that will keep her occupied. In addition to the activities provided by the Puppy Steps Program, if your dog is fully vaccinated, she can participate in group play or come to doggie day care. These outdoor sessions are wonderful ways to socialize your pup with other dogs of the same size and provide a perfect outlet for her go-go-go lifestyle.

Puppy Pounds

Morris Animal Inn recognizes that growing dogs are hungry dogs. Therefore, your budding canine will be provided with up to 3 meals a day on our Puppy Steps Program. Our premium blend Puppy Eukanuba dog food is specially formulated for puppies of either small or large breeds.

Pampered Pups

Everyday of the Puppy Steps Program, your puppy will experience a daily grooming session to familiarize her with the sights, sounds, and smells of the grooming salon. Pups are handled delicately by the grooming staff to help them adjust to the experience.

Reward Yourself and Your Pup

At Morris Animal Inn we understand that introducing a new puppy into your life can be both enriching and exhausting, much like bringing a new baby in your household. Everyone needs a night off, (or a couple!) so allow us to give you a hand. Your pup is guaranteed to be showered with love and attention!

Fitness For Fluffy, Too!

Resting up for the hunt.

When we think of cats, many of us think of lounging and snoozing. But despite this reputation, cats both desire and require regular physical activity.

It is estimated that between 25 and 40 percent of cats seen by U.S. vets are overweight or obese, hindering their quality of life and overall health. For example, an overweight cat might not be able to jump to his or her favorite spots or play as much as they'd like. Obesity in cats is also associated with a variety of medical problems, including arthritis, ligament damage, high blood pressure, diabetes, breathing and liver problems, and urinary tract disease. Reducing food intake is part of combating obesity, but adding daily exercise to your cat’s regimen is equally helpful.

As predators, cats instinctually do a lot of sleeping interspersed with frequent bursts of activity. (Think sprinters rather than marathon runners.) In the winter months, it’s hard for both indoor and outdoor cats to get sufficient exercise, but you certainly shouldn't run out and buy them a treadmill! Morris Animal Inn offers lots of great ways to give cats the exercise and interaction they need, no matter how long their stay with us. Here are just a few examples.

Bingley explores our Kitty Play Room.

1. Our kitty playroom has a cat tree in addition to a variety of climbing, perching and scratching posts. These items encourage our feline guests to jump, reach, stretch and file down those sharp claws!
2. Our staff have become masters at the kitty teaser session, which involves any number of engaging toys such as feather wands, laser teasers and “fishing poles”.
3. Pampered pet sessions are great for getting cats up and out of their lodging and exploring. Cats have the opportunity to interact with our staff, look at our fish tank, get a view of our lobby or just stretch or scratch.
4. The option of lodging your cats together (if they get along at home) is an automatic way to ensure activity. Just the presence of another cat causes greater awareness, incites play and makes for a more social lodging experience.
5. Cat videos, included in some of our luxury cat suites, provide both physical and mental stimulation.

Google enjoying the Fish Tank view.

In addition to helping cats stay fit and healthy, exercise provides mental stimulation that prevents possible destruction of your belongings and makes for more fulfilled felines. To put it simply, a well-exercised cat is a happy cat.

Sources: 

healthypetu.com

pets.webmd.com

Caring for Giant Breeds

Gentle Giants

Extra large breed dogs or giant breed dogs as they are also commonly referred to, come with a host of unique characteristics. It goes without saying that everything about them is bigger, including their beds, toys, appetites and strength. But here at Morris Animal Inn, no dog is too large for us!

Giant breed dogs are generally considered to be at a minimum of 75 lbs and can get as large as 200 lbs or greater, and as tall as 21 inches measuring to the withers, according to Terrific Pet.com. Some popular giant  breeds include Great Danes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Akitas, Rottweilers, Anatolian Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and Bullmastiffs.

Although huge and strong, with the proper amount of training, these dogs can be manageable, and just as sweet as lap dogs. Though their training does not need to be intense, it is crucial to teach them obedience due to their size and potential to overpower smaller dogs or children. For all of your training needs, pop on over to Morris K9 Campus in Randolph, NJ to get your gentle giant under control.

Health

Just like smaller breeds, giant breed dogs are not without their share of health issues. Fortunately, full-time staff at Morris Animal Inn are certified by the Pet Care Services Association and are trained to recognize health issues common to giant breeds. Morris Animal Inn’s goal is to make your pet's stay as comfortable as possible.

Room Service 

For lounging around, it’s no secret that our large friends need bigger spaces. Unlike many other boarding facilities, Morris Animal Inn offers extra-large suites that can accommodate several large dogs in one enclosure, so big-boned brothers and sisters are always welcome. Furthermore, we provide large orthopedic beds that can easily fit two snuggling Great Danes. For their feeding purposes, we realize that the bigger the dog, the bigger the appetite. To ensure that your oversized friend gets all his/her nutrients, we offer large raised bowls, making it easier for them to eat and drink without overextending their necks.

 

Bubbles and Brushes 

Pets with long hair need regular clipping, about every six to eight weeks or so, and should have their coats brushed, to prevent tangles and mats, about twice a week. In addition to daily brush maintenance, Morris Animal Inn’s grooming salon offers extra-large grooming tables, so beautifying your canine giant is no problem for our highly-trained grooming staff. Our large floor tub also makes it much simpler for Beethoven to get in and out.

The Active Life

Large breed dogs do require a decent amount of exercise but this can be managed with daily walks with romps in a large fenced in area. Morris Animal Inn offers plenty of fenced-in outdoor play yards, as well as a scenic nature trail which are perfect for these giant breeds. Our spacious indoor play areas and treadmill ensure no matter the weather, come rain or shine, that your canine companion will get his/her exercise. Furthermore, our staff is highly trained to handle any size dog and regularly rub paws with the largest of the canine breeds.

Besides getting those big bones to move, another important aspect in the life of a giant breed dog is socialization. Though small dogs can be just as dominant towards other canines as giant breed dogs, the repercussions of this trait in a big dog are more noticeable. However, by starting as early as possible in your dog’s life, you can introduce your pet to other dogs in a controlled and safe environment so they learn socialization skills and feel comfortable with other canines. Morris Animal Inn’s daycare and group play sessions provide beneficial interaction with other dogs and members of our staff.

Here at Morris Animal Inn, size is never an issue. We truly do welcome, to quote the veterinarian James Herriot, “creatures great and small”!

Sources:

www.terifficpets.com

www.the-puppy-dog-place.com

www.dog-breeds.net

7 Tips for a Pleasant Lodging Experience

At Morris Animal Inn, we strive to make your pet's stay with us a healthy and happy one. Here are our top 7 tips for making this transition the best it can possibly be for your pet.

1) Consider scheduling some daycare appointments prior to taking a long trip. Bringing your pets to us for short stays prior to an extended period of time will help them adjust to the staff and the Inn. The next time they are here, the adjustment period will be minimized. 

2) For cats, get out the carrier a few days in advance so they can inspect it, sit inside it and make it part of their normal environment. This way,  your cat will associate it with a safe place.

3) Feed your pet a light meal in the morning. A full stomach is not always the best idea when bringing them in for lodging, especially if they are high-energy. All the excitement of a trip in the car may upset their stomachs.

4) Try to keep suitcases out of sight. Many pets associate suitcases with your leaving them rather than a fun lodging experience that awaits them!

5) Don’t change your routine on the day you plan to bring your pet to us. If a pet is used to a certain way of doing things, changing it can make him or her stressed and anxious.

6) Bringing your dog to us on a leash and your cat to us in a carrier is very important. This will not only help you to control and protect your pets, it will give them their own space to adjust to the new surroundings.

7) Give a relaxed and confident goodbye. If you are anxious and emotional in the lobby, your pet will feed off that energy. A quick and cheerful “Bye, Rover...see you next week!” and a scratch behind the ears is much better than a drawn-out exit accompanied by tears or hesitation.