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!

How to Pet Proof Your Home

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

Keep wires out of reach

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

Avoid toxic foods

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

Lock up cleaning supplies

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

Be aware of harmful plants

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

Keep the toilet lid down

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

Check the washer and dryer

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

Invest in a pet gate

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

Have a pet first aid kit on hand 

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

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

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

Which Toys Do You Let Your Dog Play With?

A long time ago, there was either a bone or a stick from the backyard for your dog. But experience has shown that sticks and bones aren't the safest playthings for your pup. More popular today are rawhides and chewing sticks. Even these pose some risks to your dog's health. Because of this, efforts have been made to produce better, safer toys that produce a variety of squeaks, moos and even songs. The sky's the limit! While having an array of options is great, it can be overwhelming. If you're struggling to decide where to put your money in the canine toy arena, we can help! The following are some suggestions of dog toys and methods of deciding which is best for your particular pooch. 

CHEW STYLE

What type of chewer is your dog? Does your pal rip all toys to shreds, or gently nibble? If your dog tends to settle down with a toy and really go at it, it’s best to purchase playthings that are made of durable rubber like Kongs made by the Kong Company®. Kongs have been known to withstand the roughest chewers. When the rubber begins to crack and tear, its time to throw it out and buy another.

If your dog has a softer approach to playing, or loves toys that squeak and squeal, consider sewn plush toys. Canvas toys are a terrific option for rough chewers that are fans of the squeak. Semi-aggressive chompers can also enjoy rope toys which break apart less easily and are wonderful for your pet’s dental health.

Planet Dog has even devised a system to aid consumers in the purchase of dog toys called the Chew-o-Meter. Their system takes into account the chewing style of your pup compared to the durability of their products to help you make the best purchase possible. Furthermore, 2% of your purchase is used to fund the training of service dogs. 

KNOW YOUR MATERIAL

It is important to be aware of the materials used to make your dog’s toy because they spend a lot of time in your canine’s mouth where harmful substances can be easily absorbed. Be careful; the Consumer Product Safety Commission only deems pet toys harmful if they put the owner at risk! As mentioned previously, Kongs® and Nylabones® are safe products that are made without harmful toxins but if you are unsure, check the label.

SAFETY FIRST

Instead of smaller toys that may be a choking risk, stick to Frisbees and large balls that can’t reach the back of your dog’s mouth. A reader of The Bark recommends lacrosse balls which are large and come in a variety of fun colors. In addition, regularly check all toys for cracks or holes so that your dog’s mouth stays in tip-top shape.

PET COMPANIES WITH PET SAFETY IN MIND

Companies like Kong®, Tough by Nature, and Planet Dog are innovative toy producers that keep the safety of your pet in mind. They constantly take our pets’ needs and health concerns to heart and consistently provide new modes of fun and recreation.

The dog toy frontier is also pioneered by designers who wish to actively and mentally engage dogs with puzzle-like toys that require your pet to move pieces in order to reveal hidden treats. Nina Ottosson has a line a of dog toys that seek to work the canine brain by encouraging them to discover concealed treats using their nose and paws. Some of Ottosson’s products are made from particle board and should not be eaten or chewed, so it is important to watch your dog while playing with them. Another great option is the Buster Cube, which comes in different size cubes that must be rolled around in order to dispense the treats inside. Resembling a gumball machine, the Yuppy Puppy Food and Treat Machine has a large bone handle that when pressed down by your pup’s paw, dispenses treats! However, if you have any hesitations about whether your dog will chew off pieces of these brain teasers toys, opt to only use them when you can monitor your dog.

To keep the good times rolling for you and your best friend, consider your dog’s safety and well-being when selecting from the large range of toy options on the pet market today. Ready, set, play!

Sources: 

Sheila Pell The Bark.com
The Happy Dog Spot

Should Your Dog Wear Winter Boots?

We can all agree that a pup in winter booties is just too cute!  While they are an adorable fashion accessory, did you know they can also help keep your dog’s paws safe and healthy during the cold winter months? 

Just like our skin, the winter can also wreak havoc on your dog’s paws. Between the effects of cold, snow, ice and salt, there are many reasons that a fresh new pair of winter boots may not be a bad idea for your dog!

Cold. Dogs out in the cold for long periods of times could be at risk for frostbite on their paws and hypothermia. Be sure to monitor how long your dog spends outside during the day, especially when the temperatures drop below freezing!

Snow and Ice.  A common cause of sore and cracked paws during the cold winter months are the ice balls which form between the pads and toes of dogs with furry feet. To reduce the risk of ice balls, keep inter-pad hair trimmed neatly and short during the winter months. Not only can fur on the feet contribute to the development of ice balls, paw hair can retain a lot of those nasty deicing salts from the sidewalks and roads. If your dog's feet are on the furry side, consider getting them trimmed them throughout the winter months.

Salt. One of the biggest threats to healthy paw pads is the salt used to melt ice on driveways, roads and sidewalks. Prolonged contact can lead to chemical burns on your dog's paws! If your dog is limping by end of a walk, these salts may be hurting their feet. If you dog does not have boots, try to keep them off the salty sidewalk or road in the grass or snow whenever possible.

Another threat comes from de-icers if your dog licks their paws or your boots, and ingests them. These salts are toxic! To prevent this from happening, keep a shallow bowl of warm water and a cloth near the entryway to your home so that you can wipe your boots and your dog’s paws when coming back inside.

If boots just aren't for your dog, gently washing your dog's paws after each trip outside can help keep them healthy. You can also help prevent cracked and bleeding paw pads by applying petroleum jelly or paw wax before your dog goes outside.  

Paw wax is another great alternative and is applied to the pads of the feet before a walk, forming a protective barrier between the paw and the salty sidewalk or pavement.

Whether or not your dog should wear booties is all up to you!  Some dogs may not feel comfortable in them in the backyard, while others spend most of their time outside walking on pavement and may need a little extra protection. Either way, please be aware of potential risks when it comes to snow, ice, and salt, and contact your veterinarian if your dog is limping or seems to have hurt paws after being outside. We hope you have a great, warm, and safe winter!

Sources: PetFinder & Vetstreet

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 

Double Coated Dogs: The Great Shave Debate

There has been much debate over shaving your dog’s coat during the hot summer months.  After doing some research of our own, the answer to the great shave debate is...it really depends!  No matter what type of coat, it is important to consistently keep your dog brushed and bathed in order to maintain a healthy coat that will protect your dog’s skin from the harsh sun.  For dogs with single layer coats, shaving might be a great option to keep your dog cool.  For dogs with double layer coats, summer grooming is slightly more complicated.

Not sure if your dog has a double coat?  See if his or her breed made the list. 

What you might not know about double coats:

• The undercoat grows on a different cycle than the primary hairs
• The secondary hairs are on a shorter growth cycle
• Primary hairs do not shed as often and can take years to regrow 
• If shaved, the coat may never come back in the same
• Repeated shaving can permanently change the ratio of secondary to primary hairs, resulting in either:
• A fuzzy thicker coat that is more difficult to maintain
• A sparse, patchy coat

Natural Adaptation. A properly maintained double coat can insulate your pet from heat. When double-coated breeds undergo normal seasonal shedding, which is triggered by longer daylight hours, they drop much of their undercoat.  If this shedding coat is properly maintained and removed by brushing, bathing, and drying, what is left is a small to moderate amount of undercoat and the long, glossy hairs.  This longer but reduced coat, helps to defend the pet from hot air, overexposure to the sun, and even from biting insects.

Natural Protection. A pet's coat protects against sunburn and skin cancer. Thinner coats, or white or light-colored coats are especially vulnerable to sun damage. You dog's coat helps prevent bug bites, and as you know bugs are quite common in the summer! The bites can be quite painful and may potentially cause allergic reactions, hot spots and irritation.

Always exceptions. According to the ASPCA, there are better alternatives to shaving, such as trimming and brushing your pet's coat, especially during warm weather, but of course, there are also exceptions. If your dog has hot spots, you might need to shave the area to help it dry out and heal properly. If your dog's coat is full of mats, you may also want a groomer to shave the coat so to prevent irritations. Your vet may also recommend shaving to help treat medical conditions of the skin. Dogs with long hair around their back end, may also benefit from a trim back there to keep the area clean.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what is best for your dog.  The more you know about your pet's coat, the better you are able to give them the best care.  Last but not least, don’t be afraid to ask your groomer if you have any questions on how to properly trim your pet to beat the heat!  They are the experts, and will be sure to give you the necessary information to make the best decision possible.

Source: ASPCA, PetAge

Top Pet Toxins - National Poison Prevention Week

March 16-22 is National Poison Prevention Week. This week serves as a reminder to all pet owners to watch for both natural and processed pet toxins, especially as we prepare for spring cleaning and as plants start to poke their way through the snow. 

The March 2014 issue of Pet Age Magazine, along with the Pet Poison Helpline, listed the top cat and dog toxins to watch out for. These toxins are listed by their commonality, so watch especially for those highest on the lists. Keep this list handy to help keep your pet healthy year round.

Top Ten Cat Toxins

1. Lilies: All plants in the lily family, if ingested, can cause kidney failure in cats. These plants are common, so be especially careful what types of plants you have accessible in your home.
2. Household cleaners: Watch especially for concentrated products like toilet or drain cleaners, which can cause chemical burns.
3. Flea and tick prevention products for dogs: Certain pyrethroid based products can cause tremors and seizures in cats and are potentially deadly if ingested.
4. Antidepressants: According to Pet Age, cats seem strangely drawn to these medications. Keep them tightly sealed and out of reach, as they can have damaging neurological and cardiac effects on cats.
5. NSAIDs: Drugs like Ibuprofen found in Advil, Motrin, Aleve, etc are even more dangerous to cats than they are to dogs. Even those meant for pets should be used with caution.
6. Prescription ADD/ADHD medication: Can cause tremors, seizures or other cardiac problems that could be fatal to cats.
7. Over the counter cough, cold & allergy medicine: Those containing acetaminophen (like Tylenol) are particularly dangerous can do damage to red blood cells and cause liver failure.
8. Insoluble Oxalate Plants: Other common household plants like the philodendron and pothos can cause oral irritation, foaming at the mouth and inflammation.
9. Household Insecticides: Most sprays and powders are fairly safe, but it’s best to keep cats away until the product is fully dried or settled.
10. Glow Sticks: Though these may seem like cute toys to cats, if punctured, the chemicals inside can cause pain and foaming at the mouth. If exposed to these, food and water are a safe remedy.

Top Ten Dog Toxins

1. Chocolate: Dark and bakers chocolate are the worst, and milk chocolate in large amounts can also be dangerous.
2. Xylitol (sugarless gum sweetener): Also found in some candies, medications and nasal sprays, this sweetener causes a fast drop in blood sugar and possible liver failure in dogs.
3. NSAIDs: Drugs like Ibuprofen found in Advil, Motrin, Aleve, etc. Dogs are not good a digesting these and the continued exposure can cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure.
4. Over the counter cough, cold & allergy medicine: Particularly those containing acetaminophen or decongestants.
5. Mouse and Rat Poison: Even small amounts may cause internal bleeding or swelling of the brain in dogs.
6. Grapes & Raisins: May cause kidney damage.
7. Insect bait stations: While these stations themselves are not poisonous to dogs, pets who are intrigued by the plastic casing and swallow it may experience obstruction in their bowels.
8. Prescription ADD/ADHD medication: Can cause tremors, seizures or other cardiac problems that could be fatal to dogs.
9. Glucosamine joint supplements: These can be extremely tasty for pets, and in excess can cause diarrhea or even liver failure in dogs.
10. Silica gel packets & oxygen absorbers: While the gel packets found in new shoes or purses do not pose a significant threat, oxygen absorbers found in food packages, even pet treats, can cause iron poisoning.

Pet Poison Helpline online is a resource available for pet owners to learn what other poisons are out there and how to respond if your pet is exposed to something harmful. Should your pet be exposed to any of these or other toxins that are cause for concern, contact your local vet or the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680. 

Life's a Beach! Dog Safety at the Shore

The month of August is known for many things: back to school shopping, National Dog Day and just one last trip to the beach before summer ends. Bringing your dog along can be tempting, as there are numerous New Jersey beaches that allow pets to enjoy the sand and surf with their humans. Just like you need to prepare for a beach trip by packing your swimsuit, sunscreen and cooler, there are steps you should take to get ready for a day of paws in the sand.

Most important in preparing for a doggie beach trip is packing all the essentials. For your dog to stay safe and cool, bring a beach umbrella, towels or blankets and lots of water! Basking in the sun might be good for your tan, but it can take its toll on your pup. There is always a risk of overheating, but being proactive and knowing the signs can help keep everyone safe.

Make sure you station yourself near a shady spot (or set up your umbrella) so your pet can escape the sun. As discussed on Animal Planet’s Dog Guide Blog, sand can be scorching on your pet’s paws. Lay out a towel or blanket for them to relax on, and encourage them to at least get their feet wet in the surf. Just as the hot sand hurts less on your feet after a dip in the water, your pet’s paws will be much less sensitive after a romp in the waves.

Discourage your dog from drinking the salty ocean water, as it will do nothing to help with hydration. Have plenty of clean water ready for your pet to drink throughout the day, even after a swim when they seem cooled off. Be extra careful with short-muzzled breeds like English bulldogs, Boston terriers, boxers and pugs; they tend to overheat faster than many other dogs with longer snouts.

In addition to keeping your dog hydrated, you also need to protect their skin! That’s right, your pup can get sunburn, too. Sunscreen made specifically for dogs is an easy find during the summer months, and should be applied to your dog’s ears, nose, inside of their back legs and anywhere other sensitive areas that will receive direct sunlight, especially on shorter-haired breeds.

Unsure if you want to bring your dog along to the beach? The number one thing to consider is your pet’s recall skills. Dog-friendly beaches are large, open areas that will more than likely be filled with distractions. For safe off-leash fun, your dog should be well-trained in coming back to you when you call. If your dog is prone to run after another dog, person or even a seagull, consider doing some more training practice before taking your dog to such a stimulating environment. Always have plenty of treats on hand to reward your dog for a recall well done!

If your beach plans don’t involve your dog, Morris Animal Inn is happy to provide your pet with their own summer getaway or “staycation” while you take your trip to the shore. Call us at 973-539-0377 to book your pup for daycare filled with pool and group play fun so you both can have your own “vacation” day!

Dog Park Fun and Safety

Warm days are slowly approaching and that means it’s time to stockpile the car with Frisbees and tennis balls and take a trip to the dog park with your best canine. There is nothing better than a sun-filled day of fun at the dog park, watching your pup make all kinds of new friends. Dog parks provide a great environment for dogs that enjoy releasing some energy with other dogs. Great for socializing, these parks can also help shy dogs break out of their shells in a controlled setting.

But before you get TOO excited and run for the door, let’s first take a look at some really important safety tips and precautions that will make both you and your dog’s time at the park more enjoyable.

Animalbehaviorassociates.com and Morris K9 Campus both have excellent tips for dog owners who may or may not be familiar with dog parks. Here are just a few highlights:

·        Take an overview of the other dogs at the park before you enter. If you feel like it is a fun, safe environment, then go on and join the party. But if the other dogs seem rough or aggressive, it is probably best to skip the park and come back another time.

·         Be careful entering the park and introduce your dog gradually to the other dogs. Dogs already in the park get excited for the arrival of a new dog, so try to calm the situation by taking it slow. Allow the dogs to sniff each other through the gate and let your dog in when you feel they are ready.

·        And most of all, know your dog and be aware. The best thing you can do as an owner at a dog park is to pay close attention to your dog’s behavior for any signs of stress, aggression, fear, etc. You are at the park for your dog, not to just socialize with other owners, so keep your eye on your dog and make sure they are safe at all times.

Please take a look at other great safety tips for you and your dog located at the dog park to enjoy safe quality time with your best friend!

We are pleased to have Vin, as a contributing writer for If They Could Talk. Vin is a passionate dog owner. We look forward to sharing his contribution on interesting and educational pet topics.