Something in Common with You & Your Dog

Human beings often make time to work out at a gym or go for a run. Some love it and some do it grudgingly. Most people know that some kind of exercise is important for our bodies, whether or not they follow through with it. As with many of the topics we’ve written about, this is another similarity between humans and our pets.

Throughout history, many dogs have been bred to be working dogs, such as hunting, herding, or protecting. As this is less common but we still have certain breeds of dogs that will need more exercise than others (though all need some).

You might think that if you have a big backyard, your dog is all set. This isn’t the case. Just because someone has a home gym or buys the next exciting exercise equipment from an infomercial doesn’t mean they use it, right?

In order for your dog to get the exercise he or she needs, he or she will need an exercise buddy! Yes, just like some people have accountability partners to go to the gym, your dog needs you or a family member to encourage and assist them with their exercise.

Some ideas of exercise to do with your dog:

•          Go for a walk or a run—and let the dog lead the adventure.
•          Play that old standby, fetch.
•          Have a doggy play date so they can play together.

If you lack the time to be able to exercise your dog yourself, you can always bring them to us for Adventure Playcare or Group Daycare, where we have fun activities, healthy snacks, and even a pool for exercise.

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 

My Dog is Chewing Her Paws - Again!

You’ve heard that sound of your dog chewing or licking their paws. You always thought it was a little weird sounding and probably kind of frustrating not knowing what you could do about it. It's something you never thought to really pay attention to.

Dogs actually will lick their paws for a variety of reasons, and cleaning isn’t usually one of them. Some reasons dogs do this is because of: Injury; Habit/Boredom/Anxiety (kind of like humans biting their nails); Allergies; Parasites; Pain; 

Dry Skin and Hormonal imbalances.

Because there are so many reasons for licking paws, it’s important to take your dog to a vet to have her thoroughly examined.  

In addition to the examination, your vet may run some tests to further see what the cause is so that treatment can be prescribed. Treatments can range from anti-fungal medication to antibiotics to special shampoo. Your vet may also recommend trying a new food.

Regardless of the reason, if you know your pet is licking their paws, it’s not just a “frustration” to you, but rather something that is really frustrating your dog, so make sure to get her what she needs.

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. 

My Dog is a Loner... Help!

Sometimes, people are loners, and that’s ok. We don’t expect that we all have to always socialize and get along with everyone all the time, and we shouldn’t expect it of our dogs, either.

You might have noticed that your dog doesn’t always seem to get along with other dogs, and you aren’t sure why. There could be a variety of reasons for this:

•         The other dog’s scent (think how hard it can be to be around another human who maybe doesn’t smell so nice)
•          You dog was attacked before by another dog
•          Your dog is protecting you from the other dog
•          Your dog doesn’t want you to pay attention to another dog
•          Your dog’s temperament (yes, just like humans, there are introverted dogs)
•          Your dog’s breed (was it bred to be protective and ward off other animals?)
•          Your dog just likes humans better.

Regardless of the reason, there is no need to try to change who your dog is. We have Adventure Playcare so your pet has one-on-one attention with staff. Your dog does not have to be dog-friendly—just human-friendly. Let us know their personality and what they like, so that instead of leaving them home when you travel, they can come visit us. Being able to have activity time while you are away can make any dog happier and healthier. Don’t worry; your dog will still be excited to see you when you return. 

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. 

A Dog's Good Outlook on Life

Sometimes, we like to pamper ourselves. Whether it’s a regular appointment or a weekend away at a spa, we like to get our hair and nails done. It helps us feel relaxed and gives us a good outlook on life.

We look and feel better when we care for ourselves, and the same goes for our dogs.

Our pets need regular grooming in order to not only keep them looking good, but to keep them healthy too.

Some of the common, regular grooming that dogs should have are: trimmed toenails, taking care of matted fur, cleaning their ears, regular bathing and teeth brushing.

Because our pets can’t talk to us to communicate, keeping them groomed well can help us to identify any problems they may have and prevent problems as well. For example, ear cleaning can help prevent ear infections, and a good blow dry can prevent matted fur, which helps more air get to the dog’s skin. You’ll also be able to be aware of any skin abnormalities if your dog’s fur is groomed well. Regular teeth brushing can not only help with bad breath, but can help to prevent future problems with a dog’s heart and kidneys that can occur if infections are not found and treated.

While these are just a few of the ways grooming can be beneficial to a dog’s health, it’s important to learn more about how to keep your dog healthy. Ask your vet or pet groomer if there’s anything specific to your breed or size of dog that you should consider.

At Morris Animal Inn, we can assist with your regular grooming needs for your dog. Reach out to us so we could help maintain your dog's good outlook on life. 

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. 

Prepare Your Dog for July 4th

Grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Potato chips. Cold drinks. Red, white and blue décor. You’ve been busy getting ready for a long 4^th of July weekend, but in all the food and event planning, you may have forgotten one thing: your dog.

While we humans love seeing fireworks explode in the sky and their bright colors trickle down, our pets are not always so happy about them. While there may be the occasional dog who tries to chase after them, many dogs are fearful of fireworks.

As much as we treat our dogs like family, they are not human after all, and don’t have the understanding that we do about the temporary nature of fireworks. Some people think it’s just like a thunderstorm to dogs, that’s not actually the case. There are weather changes prior to a storm that can clue a dog in that something different is happening. With fireworks, it’s very sudden and sporadic.

If you haven’t acclimated your dog to loud noises when he or she was a puppy, not all is lost. There are a few things you can try in order to keep your dog comfortable during fireworks:   

• Play loud noises in the days and weeks leading up to the fireworks.

• Act normal with them when they are afraid to show them they don’t have to stay afraid.

• Keep the dog inside with the TV on to minimize outside noise.

• Play with your dog during the fireworks.

• Let them go to an area of your home where they already feel safe and secure.

• Bring them to Morris Animal Inn for lodging.

Whichever you choose, have a safe and happy fourth of July!

The Benefits of Training Your Dog

There are different (and often cute) names for puppy training: puppy kindergarten, obedience school, and our own Manners Daycare and Canine Training Camp.

Regardless of what it’s called, training your dog has benefits—for both the dog and the owner.

Training should start as soon as possible when someone gets their dog. This helps the dog and owner learn how to work well together and bond with each other.

A dog well-trained has the freedom to go just about anywhere; more stores or businesses may allow the dog inside and the dog also won’t have to be hidden away when company comes to visit. The well-trained dog knows that you are the leader and will listen and behave better.

In addition to being better behaved, going through obedience training is good for both the dog and you. Training can promote the following:

·         Stress Relief

·         Exercise

·         Improve your mood (and the dog’s mood)

·         Higher quality of life together

·         Build a better bond with each other

·         Entertainment

Many people consider dogs to be part of their families. Just as children are taught about life and how to navigate through it through the use of rules, dogs too can be taught. It will make for happier and less chaos all around, for both the dog and the people who love it. 

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

Sweet Dreams

We all hope our pets will be in good hands when we have to leave them --- especially overnight. How can we be sure? Asking the right important questions will assure our pet is receiving the best care!

1) Does your veterinarian recommend this pet care provider? 

2) Do they require vaccines to protect all the pets in their care?

3) Is there a veterinarian on call at all times?

4) How many years have they been in the pet care business? 

5) Are the people you are leaving your pets with knowledgeable, experienced and trained animal professionals?

6) Are cat accommodations separate from the dogs?

7) Each pet has different needs. Do you have the option to customize your pet's stay? 

8) Are you able to select private or group play depending on your dog's preference?

9) Is the location specifically designed for your pet's safety? Clean, safe and free of odor?

10) Did you check for well-maintained fencing and security? 

We would ask similar questions for our children. Pet professionals expect and are prepared to answer these questions as well as provide facility tours. Look for a home away from home to leave your lovable furry family member. At Morris Animal Inn we have over 50 years experience. We invite you to tour our facility. We take special pride in our quality staff. Give us a call and ask us these questions at 973-539-0377 and anything else that is on your mind. We welcome your thoughts and look forward to putting you and your pet's mind at ease so everyone has sweet dreams. We understand every pet is unique and has different needs.

COME. SIT. STAY. Does Your Dog Listen?

Some of us give up on our dogs when they develop or continue a bad habit... This outcome can be a better one if we provide our pups the proper training. 

Morris Animal Inn's Trainer Nancy works with 3-month-old Newfoundland Little Four.

With today's busy schedules, sometimes we need a little help to get the training started or to keep our dog on the right track. When we choose to be a dog owner, we owe it to our lovable furry family members be well behaved and have great manners. 

It's National Train Your Dog Month, so start the New Year off right  with a Canine Training Camp.

For more information on our dog training at Morris Animal Inn click here or give us a call at 973-539-0377. 

New Year, New You...For your Pet Too!

The countdown to the new year has begun, and its the perfect time to get motivated for 2016! This year, try including your pet in your New Year's Resolutions. Get inspired to try new things and accomplish your goals with your best friend by your side!

Get Healthy

 

This is a resolution we've heard time and time again. If you've been unsuccessful in making healthy changes in years past, consider having your dog join in on your journey to get healthy in 2016. As your dog improves their overall health, you'll feel motivated to meet your own goals. A perfect way to get your pup started is by signing them up for our Canine Cleanse in January 2016. The event includes canine cardio sessions, doggie detox drinks, and daily spa treatments! 

Try Something New

The new year is also a great chance to try something brand new. For you, it could be learning to kayak, playing softball with friends or taking an art class. For your pet, Morris Animal Inn has tons of new activities for them to try out in 2016. Test out the waters with a Splish Splash Session in our indoor pool or become an artist with our Pi-Cat-So iPad game! 

Get a New Look

Encourage yourself to take risks in the new year. Get an edgy hair cut or freshen up your wardrobe. Include your pet in this transformation at Morris Animal Inn's grooming salon. Try out a new hair style or simply treat them to a blueberry facial! 

Learn a New Skill

Whether its learning a language or taking up photography, challenge yourself to learn a new skill in 2016. Your pup can sharpen their skills right along with you by focusing on basic obedience training with the trainers at Morris Animal Inn. 

Visit the Doctor

Your overall health, as well as your pet's, is definitely a resolution that should be on your list. The start of a new year is a perfect reminder to contact your local veterinarian and schedule an annual check up. 

We wish you a year of happiness, health and fun for both you and your beloved pets!

The Perfect Present for Your Pet

After you've checked all of your family and friends off your gift list, don't forget to treat your furry family member this holiday. Here's 7 reasons why Morris Animal Inn is the perfect present for your pet!

1. Every doggie deserves a spa day.
Give your dog a spa day at Morris Animal Inn this holiday. They can enjoy a blueberry facial, brush out with scented shampoo, and a brand new hairdo for the new year!


2. Pups can sharpen their skills with a training session.
Our trainers use positive reward-based training, which is proven to produce happy dogs who are willing to work and learn new behaviors. 


3. Doggie daycare is a chance to see old friends and make new ones. 
Morris Animal Inn offers both private and group daycare. Your dog can come in for the day to get one on one love and attention from our staff, or enjoy some fun and games with dogs of similar size and play style. We cater your dog's daycare activities to what they like best!


5. Pool parties at Morris Animal Inn are year-round.
Treat your pup to a Splish Splash Session in our indoor pool. Play poolside or go for a dip. Each session also includes a post-swim blow dry, so your pooch stays comfy and warm after their pool party.


6. A Canine Cardio session is a great way to start 2016 off right.
Customize a workout for your furry family member with a Canine Cardio session. Going for a jog on our treadmill is a great way to get your pup feeling fit and refreshed. Ask about our Canine Cleanse, a week long health and wellness getaway in January 2016! 


7. Show your kitty some love! 
Give your kitty the gift of luxury this holiday. Our feline guests can hang out in their luxury suite and watch TV, climb and scratch in our kitty play room, or play and pounce during a curious kitty chaser game. 

A Morris Animal Inn Gift Card is the perfect holiday gift for all of the dogs and cats on your list! Call 973-539-0377 to find out more. 

The Best Dog for Your Lifestyle

Getting a dog is a life long commitment,so it's important to do as much research as possible before bringing a new addition into your family. Consider the following factors to help you make the best decision when opening your heart and home to a dog.

The amount of space you have

Take into consideration how much space your new dog will need. If you have an apartment, adopting a small dog like a Chihuahua may be the right choice. However, if you live in a large home with a fenced-in yard, a bigger dog like a Golden Retriever could be a great fit! 

The amount of time you have

If you work long hours, or have limited time to spend with your new pet, avoid getting a dog that requires a lot of activity. If you enjoy going on hikes or jogging with your pup, a high energy dog would be perfect for your lifestyle. 

The dog's grooming needs

A dog's coat and grooming needs should be a relevant factor when choosing the right dog for you. All dogs should be groomed regularly. However, some breeds require more intensive or specific grooming. For example, a long haired breed, like a Shih Tzu, would need consistent brushing. Other breeds require less maintenance. Whether it be a simple bath for your Lab or a detailed haircut for your Poodle, visit Morris Animal Inn's grooming salon to keep your pet's coat healthy and clean!

The dog's temperament

Are you looking for a dog who is friendly with strangers, or a protective dog that is loyal only to his owners? Do you require a dog that is good around kids, or do you have a cat or another dog that your new pup needs to get along with? Answer these questions to make sure you are choosing a dog with personality traits and temperament that fit your lifestyle.

The dog's age

Although it might be tempting to become overwhelmed by a puppy's cuteness, you should consider the level of commitment that goes into raising a puppy before getting one. Puppies have a lot of energy and need consistent interaction. Raising a puppy also means house training and obedience training, which require plenty of patience and time. Consider adopting an adult dog if you do not have the lifestyle that is necessary for raising a puppy. Adult dogs are often house trained and can be much calmer than a puppy. 

The wonderful thing about dogs is that they come in all shapes, sizes and personalities. So, take the time to do research before finding your new best friend to ensure a happy future for you and your pet!

Take this quiz to find out which dog breed is best for you. 

Source: HumaneSociety.org, akc.org, Banfield.com