Swimming Dogs

We’ve made it through July and we’re getting through August. The days have been long, hot, and humid. Some people refer to this time of year as the “dog days of summer,” invoking images of dogs lying around panting from the heat.

Even though that’s not the actual reason for the origin of the term, it is how most people today understand it, and we know when it’s hot and humid and both dogs and humans are feeling tired and lazy, it would be really nice to be able to cool off.

Most dogs love to swim (though not all do, and not all dogs are good swimmers) and this type of exercise is great for dogs. It gives them a low-impact aerobic exercise that is easy on their bones and joints, especially dogs with arthritis. It can also help dogs who are recovering from surgery. This time of year is great for humans to head to the local pool, lake, or beach. Unfortunately, sometimes those places have those pesky “no dogs allowed” signs posted.

What’s a dog to do?

Go to Morris Animal Inn, of course. We have a heated pool with nine jets and we provide life jackets for all swimmers. We have two types of sessions: our Splish Splash session, which can be scheduled as an activity while lodging, attending daycare or grooming (it includes a post-swim blow dry!) or our Poolside Daycare, for those dogs who just can’t get enough of the water and want to hang out there all day.

No humans allowed.

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.

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 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

How to Include Your Dog in the Holidays

With the holiday season just around the corner, keep your pet in mind when planning festivities. The holidays are a time to be grateful for family and friends, and your four legged loved one should be no exception! There are lots of opportunities to include your pet when making holiday plans. Here are some ways you can make sure your pet enjoys this special time of year as much as you do.

Go for a long walk

A great way to show your dog some extra love during the holiday season is by taking him outside for some fresh air. Let your dog run around and release some energy in a fenced in area, or take him on a long walk with plenty of breaks for sniffing.


Give them a special treat or meal

It may be tempting to feed your dog some scraps from your big holiday meal, but this could be dangerous for them. Typical foods served at a holiday meal may include raisins, chocolate, bones, onion, and garlic. Ingesting these foods could cause an upset stomach and vomiting for your dog. Instead, consider making something special just for your pup. A special hand-made meal or tasty treat will get a warm reception from any dog. 

 Donate to a local charity

There is no better way to celebrate the holiday season than by giving to others. Make a donation in your pet's name to your local animal shelter or rescue or donate food, blankets, toys or leashes to pets in need.

Set aside a quiet space

Make sure there is a place in your home where your dog can go to get away from all of the noise and excitement of the holiday. Your house will most likely be busier, louder and more stressful for your dog. Give your dog some time to sneak away to his warm and cozy bed to remind him of the comforts of his normal routine.

Keep your dog safe from holiday hazards

Although the holidays are a wonderful time for you and your family, there are aspects of the season that can be dangerous for your pet. Make sure to supervise your dog around any decorations and/or Christmas trees. If a curious pup gets a hold of a shiny ornament, it can be a recipe for disaster! Its also helpful to have an emergency vet's number on hand in case of any accidents.

Get a holiday pet portrait

Make your pet feel extra pampered and loved this holiday season by including them in the special moments you capture. Getting a professional photo taken of your pet will be something you will cherish for years to come. 

Have a picture taken of your pup in a winter wonderland scene at Morris Animal Inn's Holiday Pet Photo Shoot on November 15th from 10am-3pm. Call 973-539-0377 for more details!

Source: embracepetinsurance.com, animalfriends.co.uk, nwkare.org, 

5 Reasons Why Dogs Chase Their Tails

Dogs are playful creatures by nature, and most of us have watched a pup run around in circles chasing his tail. What may just seem like an amusing quirk could actually be a behavior that is worth looking into. Here are a few explanations for why your cute canine is chasing his tail.

Boredom

It is not uncommon to see a puppy spend minutes spinning in circles to try and catch its own tail. This entertaining habit is normal for puppies, who are naturally very playful. Tail chasing usually happens when a puppy is bored, which can be often for an energetic puppy! As the puppies get older, this usually fades away. 

Breed

Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to tail chasing and other compulsive behaviors. For breeds like German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, and Dobermans, tail chasing is not so much a silly game as it is a hereditary tendency.

 Fleas or Worms

If an older dog is consistently chasing his or her tail, its a good idea to go for a check up at your veterinarian. Tail chasing is not always all fun and games. It could actually be a sign that they have fleas or worms. So check with your local vet to make sure your dog is healthy. 

Attention Seeking

Dogs crave attention from humans, and they may do something as silly as chasing their tail to get it. Getting your dog active attention from humans is important. Simple things like a good belly rub or a Frisbee toss will make your dog happy and less likely to come up with his own ways to be entertained. 

Excessive Energy

If you have a high energy dog, they will need plenty of physical activity. Without it, they may resort to exerting energy by tail chasing. To avoid this behavior, consider increasing your dog's daily activity level. 

Is your dog chasing its tail? Bring them to Morris Animal Inn! We have plenty of activities to keep them active and entertained, including pampered pet sessions for dogs seeking some extra TLC, canine cardio sessions for high energy dogs, and more! To find out more about the activities we offer, visit www.MorrisAnimalInn.com or call 973-539-0377. 

Source: wonderopolis.org, petful.com, vetwest.com, dognotebook.com

Pet Wellness Month

October is National Pet Wellness Month - a  campaign sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association that aims to bring awareness to regular pet wellness checks. Here are a few ways you can give your dog or cat a happier and healthier life.

Twice-A-Year Exams

Wellness Exams enhance the quality of life for your pet and minimize the possibility of illness or disease. Pets age at a faster rate, so they need check-ups more often. Certain breeds are at a higher risk of  medical conditions, so take the time to learn about your pet's specific needs. Speak to your veterinarian about what you can do to keep your pet as healthy as possible. 

Dental Hygiene

Your pet's dental hygiene is very important to his or her overall health, Dental problems can cause more serious health issues, such as heart, kidney or joint problems. Avoid dental diseases by promoting oral health, and talk to your vet about ways to keep your pet's teeth healthy and clean. 

Spay/Neuter

If you haven't done so already, spay/neuter your pet. This has many health benefits, including making your pet less susceptible to diseases and illnesses. Female pets have a higher chance of getting uterine infections and breast cancer if they are not spayed, according to the ASPCA. The ASPCA also suggests neutering male pets before they are 6 months old, in order to protect against testicular cancer. 

Your Pet's food 

The quality of your pet's food is essential to their overall health. Take a look at your pet's food label. Avoid cheap fillers like protein "meal", which provide no nutrition. Incorporate foods like chicken and eggs, which are highly digestible protein that help build muscle. Check with your veterinarian to determine the healthiest food for your pet. Aim to create a high standard of nutrition for your pet, because as we all know, "You are what you eat".

Exercise

 The foundation of your pet's health is diet and exercise. Exercise will keep your pet's muscles and bones strong and keep them happy and healthy. As we approach the cold winter season, there are also ways to get your dog or cat some exercise indoors. Your dog can burn some calories by running up and down stairs or going for a jog on a canine treadmill, like the one used in Morris Animal Inn's canine cardio sessions. Cat's sleep approximately 22 hours a day, but they can enjoy a workout routine as well. Here at Morris Animal Inn we like to use laser lights and teaser toys in our teaser play sessions to help your kitty burn some calories and stay healthy. Your pet should get exercise on a daily basis. Remember: A tired dog is a happy dog! 

Morris Animal Inn is excited to support Pet Wellness Month, and we make the wellness of your pets a priority. You can take steps towards giving your pet a long and healthy life by incorporating more activity into your pet's life, creating a pet wellness plan, and bringing your pet to Morris Animal Inn for daily activities and healthy treats. Call us at 973-539-0377 or visit www.MorrisAnimalInn.com. 

Source: PetMD.com Wondercide.com, SynergyLabs.com, Petcentric.com

Autumn Pet Safety Tips for Your Pet

There’s nothing like the start of the Autumn season. The leaves change color, crisp air begins to drift in, and we prepare for our favorite holiday celebrations. While there is much to look forward to this Fall, this season also brings with it dangers to your pet. To make sure your dog or cat stays healthy during these cozy next few months, check out these following tips. 

Full Tummies 

With the Autumn season comes a transition into cooler weather. Your pet will need more energy to stay warm in these cold temperatures. Therefore, consider feeding your pet a little more food. This will allow them to generate more body heat, and stay warm on those chilly Fall nights. Be sure to discuss your pet's needs with your local veterinarian before making any significant changes their diet. 

Rodent Danger

You and your pet aren't the only ones adjusting to the cold this month. Rats and other rodents begin to search for warmth indoors around this time, which could mean an infestation of mice in your home. Be careful when setting mouse traps and using rodenticides and poisons. Many of the products available today are very toxic to pets, and could even be fatal if ingested. Research safer methods of pest control, and if you must use rodenticides, keep them out of reach from your pets. 

Be Mindful of Mushrooms

Fall, much like spring, is a season in which an abundance of mushrooms pop up in forests, and even your backyard. Although 99% of these mushrooms are not dangerous, 1% can be highly toxic to both you and your pet. The problem is being able to distinguish the safe mushrooms from the life-threatening ones. When you take your dog for a walk try avoiding areas in which mushrooms are growing. If you believe your pet may have ingested a toxic mushroom, immediately contact the the ASPCA Animal Poison Control center. 

Bring your pet to Morris Animal Inn this Fall. Our building is specially designed for your pet's safety. Special features of our facility include climate control with air purification systems, soft natural lighting, skylights, and background music in every room, private residence on premises and 24-hour camera surveillance. Visit www.morrisanimalinn.com for more information on our luxury accommodations. 

Source: Pet Health Network, North Shore Animal League of America, ASPCA

Top 10 Dog Facts

Did you know that a dog's temperature ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit? Or that 62% of households in the U.S. have dogs? Or that the Newfoundland breed has a water resistant coat and webbed feet?!

There is so much we don't know about our dogs, and we are learning interesting things about them every day. Here's a list of our top ten dog facts that are sure to teach you something new about your fascinating furry friends!

1. There were three dogs that survived the historical sinking of the Titanic. The puppy passengers were from 1st class cabins, and included 2 Pomeranians and 1 Pekingese. 

2. There's a rumor that Paul McCartney recorded an ultrasonic whistle at the end of the Beatles song "A day in the life". This was only audible to dogs, and was a shout out to Paul's Shetland Sheepdog. 

3. Dalmatians are not born with the classic black spots that they are so well known for. As puppies, Dalmatians are pure white. They develop their spots as they grow older.

4. Dogs have the same type of rapid eye movement (REM) as humans. During this REM stage dogs can dream, just like us! Signs that your pet is dreaming include twitching and paw movements.

5. Dogs can see in the dark, due to a special membrane in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum.

6. According to a survey done, 72% of dog owners think that their dogs can sense when stormy weather is on its way. 

7. Do you share your side of the bed with your pup? Well, you're not alone! 45% of dogs sleep in their owners bed.

8. A dog's sense of smell is 10,000 - 100,000 times more acute than humans. Maybe that's why they're first to the table when dinner is ready. 

9. After going to the bathroom, dogs kick dirt up because they are using scent glands on their paws to further mark their territory.

10. There's a reason dogs curl up in a ball when they sleep. Due to an age-old instinct, they curl up to keep themselves warm and to protect their abdomen and vital organs from predators. Plus, its adorable!

For the full list, check out 25 Cool Dog Facts. Do you know any surprising facts about man's best friend? Comment and share with us!

Source: Petfinder