GENTLE GINGER

Don't tell anyone...but I think I'm starting to win over all the hearts of the people working at Morris Animal Inn! They always stop by to say hi to me and scratch my back. Naturally, I reward them with kisses!

My exercises have continued. After breakfast, I had my treadmill session and then I played outside with my buddy Jess again. I like running after the balls she squeaks and throws for me but for some reason after I retrieve the ball, she wants me to bring it back to her. That just doesn't make sense to me! She gives such encouragement though so I guess I'll do this a few times.  I like playing with the squeaky toys out in the yard and shaking them around, it gives me a sense of purpose.

After my treadmill and play session, I spent some time resting in my suite and snacking on my healthy treat. Today it was pumpkin puree. I'm glad they switch things up! I love being surprised by food and discovering that healthy food can be yummy too!

This afternoon I spent more time gallivanting in the play yard, exploring the play equipment and the comfortable, soft K9 grass. Right now I'm off to the treadmill for another workout! Let's see who I can kiss this time while still moving... XOXO!

MEET GINGER!

Greetings! Ginger here! I'm about to embark on a month-long weight loss challenge at Morris Animal Inn. Everyone is so sweet at the Inn! I love showering all of my human helpers in kisses! They helped me settle comfortably in a large suite! I have my own Kuranda bed, a comfy lambswool mat to rest on, and my own food and water bowl! Everyone keeps stopping by to pet and cuddle with me. I feel so popular! However, I should explain that I have not always felt this way nor has life always been this kind to me.

Photo by Kaylin

As a Southern gal, I was born and raised in West Virginia. The people who owned me used me to produce several litters of puppies and then abandoned me and one of my 4-month-old puppies. I don't know why they gave up on me.

I spent the next few months at a shelter in West Virginia with my little pup. After only a few days, my baby was adopted but I wasn't. Days, weeks, and months would go by and I would watch them load the van but I never seemed to be chosen. Last Friday when I woke up, I knew something was different, I could feel it in the air. Sure enough, that Friday, I was the one that got to ride in the van! All of my shelter friends happily wished me luck and said goodbye to me. The next phase of my life was about to begin!

Eleventh Hour Rescue took me under their wing and transported me north all the way to New Jersey. The car ride was super fun! I relaxed and snoozed in the back seat while my sweet chauffeur, Kaylin did all the work. She was so kind, taking me for a long walk at a park along the way!

Ginger with her new friends

When I arrived at Morris Animal Inn a couple days ago, there were so many nice people waiting to see me! I felt like a celebrity! It was so wonderful to be welcomed by so many gentle, loving arms! Kaylin told me that the people at Morris Animal Inn are going to help me lose weight over the course of a month so that I'm healthier. I would love to lose some pounds because I have so much energy and really want to move around but my large figure is slowing me down! I weighed in today at a whopping 91.6 pounds and my waist measures 30 inches! For a Catahoula Leopard Boxer mix, I'm a little too heavy. (It was probably all that good Southern cookin' and not enough exercise!) That's why I'm staying with the kind people at Morris Animal Inn. They will keep me exercising and eating right so I can move around better and become healthy. I can't wait! Stay tuned to keep up with my progress through the month of June!

High paw!

(If interested in adopting Ginger, please contact Eleventh Hour Rescue )

CONCLUSION OF THE EUKANUBA CHALLENGE

Spring has definitely sprung here in my world!  My friends, the birds have come back and I spend much of my time watching them out the windows as they tweet, swoop around and build their nests.  It makes me a little bit jealous that they can fly and I must use my four little legs to carry my whole body around!  But lately, I feel like a young pup again.  My system is “moving” regularly, I have a little more spring in my step and my coat has improved!  My Mom tells me that it’s from the Euka-something Challenge, but I don’t know what that means.  All is know is that I still love it each morning when I get to eat the delectable food in the pink bag.  Diving into those tasty little nuggets of “yum” each morning revs up my engine and gives me all that I need to start each day!  I plan to recommend it to all of my dog friends at Morris Animal Inn.  Tori, Clover, Jersey, Angie, Gracie, Cannoli, Bailey and Rusty…did you hear that?  If you want to run faster, improve your coat, stay regular and just feel better, ask your Mom or Dad to feed you EUKANUBA!  You’ll thank me later!

We are giving away one voucher for one FREE bag of any Eukanuba Dog Food up to 40lbs to one of our readers that is interested in trying the food.

There are three ways you can qualify:

1) Add a comment to this blog post that tells us why you want to take the Eukanuba 28 Day Challenge and why you should win the voucher

2) Tweet about this blog post and leave the URL to that Tweet in a comment on this post

3) You can blog about this blog post and leave the URL to your post in a comment on this post

You can qualify by one or all three of these methods. We will choose from all comments received and will announce the winner next week!

Check out what other bloggers are saying about their experience with the 28-Day Eukanuba Challenge - http://dogtime.com/eukanuba-28-day-challenge-bloggers.html

THE NEXT FARAH FAWCETT?

I have always considered my coat to be my shining glory.  Its color is very unusual; not quite snowy white but creamy, in a rich vanilla ice cream sort of way.  And, oh, is it ever full!  Some would call me ten pounds of dog with twenty pounds of hair!  Because of all this hair of mine, I have sported many different hairstyles throughout the years.  I was in my lion cut phase when I was younger.  What was I thinking?!  Looking back, that was not a very good look for me, but at the time, oh, how stylish and trendy I thought I was!  A lion cut is where the nice groomer trims your whole back end very short (yes, the whole back end!) and your front end is left wild and full.  If you still can’t picture it, imagine a mullet in your mind, then reverse it.  Anyone who has accidentally worn shorts in the winter knows what that feels like!  Quite chilly when the wind blows! 

And then there was my “short all over” phase which my mom liked a whole lot because then she didn’t need to brush me very often.  Oh, except for my tail; I always like to keep that full and fluffy like a paintbrush.  It’s how you could still tell that I’m a lady. (And don't you forget it!)

And then we come to the present; a time when maturity tells me that I must not let fashion dictate my style, but should do what comes naturally and feels good.  Sometimes I just let it all hang out; wild and crazy, with my hair in my eyes, but who cares?!  I don’t really mind if a few hairs are askew and lately, I’m not sure, but I feel as if there is a whole lot more of them.  My coat all over is more lush than usual and my mom loves when she can sink her fingers deeply into it to pet me.  The hair on my head is just a whole other story.  Can you say troll on steroids?!  It’s creamy and fuzzy and shoots out in all directions.  Where did all of this new hair come from?  I’ve been eating the yummy new food in the pink bag every day.  Could that be the reason for my rich and luxurious coat? I guess we will keep watching to see! Stay tuned for next week's conslusion of my 28-Day Eukanuba Challenge!

MEADOW LAND WEEK 2: THE RETURN OF "CRAZY DOG"

WEEK 2

Another week has passed and not much seems to have changed for the people in my world; they keep getting up, feeding me, going out the door and then coming back home again.  But this new breakfast they’re serving me is quite delectable.  Each morning as they scoop the tasty morsels into my bowl, the intoxicating aroma wafts past my nose and I’m overcome with the urge to speak.  I must tell them to hurry, so I bark.  I bark incessantly, knowing that it will make them move faster.  They oblige me because, of course, I rule the household and they must obey my every command.  I dive into my bowl with the speed of a race horse, tempted to swallow it all in an instant, but wanting to savor every bite.  Mmmmmmmmm!  A yummy way to start my day.

I don’t know what my people do with their days, but mine are very productive.  After my morning meal, I usually saunter over to the deck door where I can sit and watch the birds and squirrels go merrily about their day.  Sometimes I can find just the right spot on the floor where the sun is shining and that’s where I’ll settle in.  After an exhilarating morning watching the wonders of nature, it’s time for a nap.  After all, a girl needs her beauty rest!  Usually I sneak into the girl’s room and get myself up into her bed where I bury myself deep into her downy covers and stay there until the family comes back home.

And then all of a sudden last night I felt the urge to do “Crazy Dog.”  Are you familiar with the game of Crazy Dog?  It’s the one where you gather up all the energy you can, take a deep breath and run in circles throughout the house.  I was impressive this time; reminiscent of Secretariat leading the pack in the Kentucky Derby!  I made about five circles on my chosen path…and then reversed it, all the while making a low growly sound that I think my people really like because they laugh at me when I do it.  Hey, it’s been a long time since I’ve done Crazy Dog.  I really feel good; could it be that the new food in my bowl has given me this renewed sense of vim and vigor?  

MEADOW LAND

Meadow, pictured with her owner, the General Manager, Patti Kreitler, begins the Eukanuba 28-Day Challenge. Meadow would like to see what all the hype is about!

It’s 6am and another day is dawning here in “Meadow Land.”  As I gently lift my head from my snuggly slumber in my little dog bed, I hear the Dad going out the door, so it must be time for me to wake somebody. Who will it be today?  The Dad is already on his way to work, the big tall boy could sleep through a nuclear attack, the Mom is a little bit on the slow side, so I think I’ll wake the girl since she usually gets up quickly without too much grumbling.  Up I spring (well, my springing up days may be over, but I’ve still got some gusto!) and dash into her room.  “Arf,” I deliver right in her face.  “Arf!” again.  “Arf!” again.  I NEED FOOD, PEOPLE!  Is there a stir?  Is one eye starting to open?  Yes…here comes one eye, then another.  She gazes at the clock and then back again at me.  And then the pause…will she get up, or will she drift back to sleep?  I stare harder, knowing it just has to help.  I see her take a deep breath, and then no movement.  I must intervene.  Now with all my might, I lift my body up to her bed and give one more “Arf!” so close to her face that she could never resist my request.  AND SHE’S UP!  The day has begun!  Life is good!

Before going any further, let me tell you a little bit about Meadow Kreitler, Princess of Morristown, New Jersey.  My earliest recollection is being in this thing called an animal shelter.  I was confused about why I was there and when I’m concerned or nervous, I have a tendency to spin.  Now this is not subtle spinning.  When stressed, I turn into a virtual whirling dervish!  The nice shelter people recognized this interesting trait of mine and secretly named me Dizzy, but openly referred to me as Daisy which they felt sounded nicer.  They labeled me a Pomeranian, but anyone who looks at me can easily tell that I’m really a Volpino Italiano, a breed from the same family as the Pomeranian, but a much more prestigious pedigree!  When my mom laid eyes on me, it was love at first sight…for me and for her.  She took me home, renamed me Meadow after a character she watched on the Sopranos and I joined their family.  I watched as the boy and the girl turned from children into grownups and joined them in all of life’s milestones.

Oh, and by the way, did I mention that I like to eat?  No, actually, I love to eat!  I live to eat!  I think food time might just be my favorite part of the day.  So after my quick trip to the backyard where I nicely take care of business, I slide across the kitchen floor to my usual spot.  But what do I see?  A bag I’ve never seen before, what can it be?  I’m nervous.  I feel a spin coming on…I’m not sure what’s happening …. spinning has begun!  The girl scoops deep into the pretty bag with the long name on it and I hear the food drop into my dish.  It sounds good, it smells good, I sure hope it tastes good, too!  I’m not sure about this….change is not my favorite thing…oh well, here goes….

HOORAY!  I like it!  It’s good!  No, not just good, it’s absolutely yummy-licious!  A veritable party in my mouth!  I know it’s going to be a GREAT day!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

 We are at the end of the 28-Day Eukanuba Challenge. It was a positive experience for both Tori and I.  We are noticing a slimmer, more active version of Tori.  My daughter’s friends were over the other day and hadn’t seen Tori in a while and they both asked, “Did she get her hair cut or lose weight?”   We know she didn’t have a haircut, so to our delight others are noticing a difference as well!  

Regardless of changing Eukanuba formulas, Tori’s enthusiasm for food has not altered or waned one iota as breakfast and dinner continues to be one of her favorite activities. The best thing about Eukanuba food is the quality and Tori’s willingness to eat it. It makes you feel good when you can provide the best for your pet.We will definitely continue to feed Tori Eukanuba and test the different formulas as she moves through life and her nutritional needs change. 

The best part of this challenge was that it made me stop and think about my dog’s nutritional needs.  I slowed down to notice some of her eating habits and it challenged me to think about her overall health and fitness moving forward so she that can the healthiest, happiest pet possible.

P.S.  Tori finally got the hang of the treat toy.  She is now running all over the house swinging it around to get her kibble as a reward for all her hard play.  Mission accomplished!

TORI VS TOY

As the Eukanuba challenge continues and is now in its third week, here’s what we’ve noticed:

• Tori appears to be slimming down somewhat! Her waistline is no longer expanding. We may just be winning in the battle of the bulge!
• She has more energy and seems more eager to go for her walks. She practically springs up in the morning!
• Her ears look healthy and clean and I’m confident Eukanuba is helping her to maintain her pearly whites.
• Her bowel movements are regular, she seems to have more stool since switching to the weight control formula.
• One thing is for sure, Tori has never had the freshest breath. Yet it seems to be improving with this Eukanuba formula!

Since we started this challenge I have been thinking of Tori’s diet and eating habits more like I do my own.  One morning this week, I put down Tori’s Eukanuba as I usually do. I noticed that within seconds Tori was actually snorting while she was eating.  She was eating so fast and furiously that she was making all kinds of piggy noises. 

This made me question whether she was really enjoying her meal?  We are all taught to take our time, chew for extended periods of time, and focus on our food so we can savor and enjoy then taste and ultimately feel satisfied and full.  Tori, on the other hand, was definitely not having that experience as she snorted up her food like a canine vacuum cleaner.

I started to think how I could make feeding time more of an experience for her with her quality Eukanuba food.   Then it dawned on me that there are many dog toys available that will slowly dispense food for dogs as they play with them.  Tori was never much of a toy-playing dog, so adding the food element would entice her to play as well as slow down her eating process.  She would also be stimulated mentally and physically while slowly completing her meal.   Great idea right?!  

Ok, so maybe we were expecting too much.  Don’t worry, we did take time to show her how to get the food.  After several minutes of her frustration and annoyed barking, we fed Tori with her regular bowl.   However, we are not giving up and will try again. Till next week!

ROUTINE IS THE NAME OF THE GAME (WEEK 2)

Week 2 and Tori's love of food and desire for her Eukanuba meals is particularly strong!

Being in the pet care industry for so many years, I have learned the importance of routine and that “being regular” is a good sign of health.  With a change in food, it is not uncommon for a dog to experience some issues.  I am happy to report that even after changing foods, Tori is still on a “regular schedule.” Her silky coat has been maintained, her appetite as big and enthusiastic as ever!

Routine is the name of the game.  Every morning, Tori waits for the light to go on  and the leash to click.  6:30am sharp we head out for our daily walk whether it's raining, snowing or the sun is shining (although it is pretty dark at 6:30am this time of the year).

We have a regular route and make stops at our favorite spots along the way.  There is one particular area where Tori loves to frolic. It is in a small patch of vines and pachysandra that I am sure other critters have visited, making the area quit enticing.

Once the walk and her “business” is taken care of, we head inside.  Tori performs her spirited dance, filled with not-so graceful spins and barks until her Eukanuba food drops in the bowl.  It takes her a very short time to eat every morsel. There are occasional snorting sounds and this morning I truly believe she licked the bowl!

Once she gobbles all her food up, it’s time to take a little break!  Tori heads right to the bedroom, jumps on the bed and cuddles up with the kids until the alarm goes off for school.

What a life….

TORI MORRIS TAKES ON THE EUKANUBA CHALLENGE

(Morris Animal Inn Vice President, Joanne Morris and her dog, Tori, take on the Eukanuba 28-Day Challenge.)

For more on why we are taking this challenge, read our first blog post on the topic.

We just completed Week 1 of our Eukanuba 28-day challenge.  I’m not sure that my seven-year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Tori felt it to be much of a challenge.  She has been eating some form of Eukanuba food since she was a wee puppy.  Tori LOVES food, so eating has never been a problem for her which is why we wanted to participate in order to try a new formula, specifically the Small Breed Weight Control.  As the New Year approached, we realized that our dear little King Charles was getting round in the middle.  We were all resolved to the fact that her purpose in life was to sit comfortably next to us on the couch so we can snuggle with her or eat!  It was time for a new mind set and a new Eukanuba formula for Tori.

Eukanuba's packaging is no doubt eye-catching. Colorful, bright and pink, somewhat reminscent of Pepto-Bismol, it does jump off the shelves attracting the average consumer with it's vibrancy and promise of "100% High Quality Nutrition."

Since Tori's love of food has contributed to her pudgy figure, we decided it was time to tackle the issue and start trimming her waist line. First off, I appreciated the fact that the food was less in fat and I have always been a fan of the dental benefit Eukanuba offers. The texture, appearance and smell was exactly what I expected from a Eukanuba product. There is no doubt Tori loved her new food! Just watch our video to see her dance around like a little ballerina!

Watch as Tori tries her new weight control Eukanuba dog food.

(When it comes to food, patience is not one of Tori's virtues.)

WEEK THREE OF THE 28-DAY EUKANUBA CHALLENGE

Days have now passed and Jersey & Clover are loving their new food. They’re probably confused about my interest in their eating habits as I have spent the last two weeks touching the kibbles, smelling the kibbles, comparing the kibbles, kibbles, kibbles kibbles… I have stopped short of eating the kibbles myself but I have to say that my gut reaction was that it looked and smelled like healthy food. I’ve been around dogs for a long time, therefore, I have been around a lot of brands and types of dog food. Thankfully, Pure doesn’t look like rabbit pellets, it doesn’t feel greasy, it isn’t rainbow colored and doesn’t make “instant gravy” when you add water. It has a mild wholesome smell, with darker than expected, flattened pieces.

So as any dog owner knows, what goes in must come out. Usually the first sign of a change of diet is noticed while the family is unwinding for the day and resting in front of the TV. As you are immersed in your favorite show a slight odor starts to waft across the room. It’s slight enough in the beginning that you don’t really notice it then all of a sudden, WOW! The dog is still sleeping quietly on the rug but the room is now filled with the unmistakable malodorous remnants of his new diet. I was prepared for that inevitable occurrence as I had changed foods cold turkey. Their first meal of Pure was a taste test with their old diet but since then it’s been straight Pure. No gradual transition in this house. I am absolutely amazed that I have neither heard nor detected ANY intestinal upset. I had gas masks poised and ready but they have been completely unnecessary. Love that!

Treat Tips

Some dogs do not adhere to the 24 hour clock we humans base our days on, but rather an internal clock with a milk-bone or juicy kibble bits representing each pivotal hour of the day. Like clockwork, you may notice your significant fuzzy-buddy sidling up to the treat stash or you may watch your dog morph from a slumbering angel to a slobbering and very vocal canine in a matter of minutes when that special time rolls around. Treats, whether you use bones, biscuits, or chicken strips, have become an intrinsic addition to the canine diet. Unfortunately, treats have also become the leading cause of canine obesity, transforming slender dogs into generously proportioned chubsters. To help keep your adorable pet as healthy and fit as possible, we’ve outlined some tips to help you tackle the tricky treat quandary.

Moderation

All dogs should enjoy an indulgence from time to time. That said it should be done so in moderation. It is often a good idea to break the treat into small pieces. Your dog will still savor each of those small bits and you can save money on treats by using less!

Count Calories
It is a good idea to check the packaging on your dog’s treats to find the calorie content in each treat. You might be surprised by what you find. The Woof Report suggests that treats should only take up 10% of your dog’s daily calorie count.

Healthy Alternatives
We often think our dog will only be attracted to juicy hunks of meat, but many dogs salivate over carrots, little slices of apple, and green beans. However, remember to steer clear of grapes or raisins, which can be poisonous to dogs. Try substituting these healthy, low-fat alternatives into your dog’s diet. Now that it's summer, try a small seedless slice of watermelon or even some crunchy ice cubes that will cool your dog off and keep him or her happily occupied.

http://www.dogtipper.com/

There is no doubt that treats make our dogs happy, so there is no need to deny your precious pooch tasty treats. Just remember that in order to keep your dog healthy and happy, opt for low calorie, low fat options, and use your treats sparingly. Most importantly, get the whole family on board. It won’t work if Grandma is sneaking extra bacon under the table! It takes all hands on deck to provide the best quality of life for our special four-legged friends.

Let's Get Physical!

While we humans may grumble and moan at the thought of getting off the couch to exercise, many dogs will jump at the mere suggestion of physical activity. This is fortunate since canine fitness is essential to the health of our wet-nosed friends. Dogs that exercise are more likely to maintain good body weight, less likely to develop heart problems, arthritis or diabetes, and often stave off boredom and depression associated with a sedentary lifestyle. If your playful pooch could use some more activity, read on about Morris Animal Inn's fitness offerings.

                                        

Fido’s Fit and Spaw Retreat

After the turkey scraps have been gobbled up and the eggnog has been licked off the floor, Morris Animal Inn starts your dog’s new year off right by nudging them back into shape. A week of nature hikes on our pastoral trail, daily swim sessions in our aqua center, treadmill walks and runs, and “doga” and “pawlates” in our play suites all work to stretch your dog’s ligaments and burn calories.

Although the fit retreat focused on activities and exercise, the group overall averaged a weight loss of 2% of their overall body weight in just one week! This is pretty impressive considering the fact that Weight Watchers encourages its customers to lose 10% of their body weight over the course of several months.

Take a look at this video clip of Fido's Fit & Spaw Retreat:

Summertime 'Fit and Fun' 

Due to the success of this year's Fit and Spaw Retreat and the growing demand for canine fitness programs in light of growing pet obesity, Morris Animal Inn will hold 2 weeks of 'Fit and Fun Camp' (June 20-25 and July 18-22) as part of our annual Summer Camps series!

These two weeks will be specifically tailored to canine fitness, all while having fun in the sun! Our canine companions can splash in the pool, walk on our shaded trails, burn calories on the treadmill, and race around our fenced in outdoor play yards with their other fuzzy friends! There will even be some fun sports-themed activities. Summer’s just around the corner and while your dog may not be losing weight to fit in a teeny weenie bikini, their overall health will benefit from the exercise and their minds will love the activity. Who wants to spend summer sitting in an air conditioned room anyway? Allow your pooch to get out and play!

Even if your pet can't make it to our fitness programs, or you have a cat who prefers working out solo, you can always add any of our canine or feline activities to your pet's lodging reservation with us. Join us in helping to keep our pets fit and healthy all year long!

Sources: vetinfo.com

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

Holiday Hazards

Holiday pet hazards lurk around the Christmas tree and dangle from the dinner table. Fortunately, keeping your furry friends out of the poinsettias and away from chocolate just takes a few simple strategies.

Decorate with pets in mind.

Dangerous decor is a big holiday season concern.

Greenery: Holiday plants like poinsettias, holly and mistletoe should be kept out of reach from your pets because they can cause upset stomachs, gastrointestinal distress and other problems. But even fake plants can hurt your pet. Surprising culprits for tummy troubles are loose needles from artificial Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands.

Speaking of Christmas trees, remember to avoid using additives, such as fertilizers or home remedies like aspirin, in the water of a live tree’s base because they are often poisonous to your dog or cat if they choose to drink from it.

Climbing and chewing: Many pets instinctually get into trouble in a home decorated for the holidays. To prevent kitty from climbing up the Christmas tree, try placing aluminum foil around the tree base and under the tree. The texture and sound tin foil makes is unpleasant to cats, so they tend to stay away from it.

To discourage gnawing on electrical cords, use protective devices made for computer cables, like rubber or plastic cord ducts. Or, you could spray any bitter tasting pet products on cords to deter noshing.

Christmas ribbon can be a less obvious but attractive hazard to pets. Although beautiful and fun to play with, ribbon, tinsel and icicles can create an intestinal obstruction in dogs and cats.

At home or on the road: Don’t forget to secure your pet(s) during travel with a pet seatbelt or carrier. Slick roads can put an unrestrained pet (and human passengers) at risk. Also, using a crate can keep the family dog from nipping because of the stress of having guests in the house.

You should also be sure your pet has current identification tags as well, in case he or she should run out the door as you welcome guests inside.

Food Abounds.

Food is often a favorite part of holiday decor, from gingerbread houses to candy canes to oranges flanked with cloves. But some holiday treats can pose an immediate threat to animals. Chocolate for instance, is toxic to both cats and dogs, so take extra care when baking.

And rather than feeding Fido or Whiskers your holiday leftovers, plan ahead and put out pet-friendly treats. Lots of treats of a variety of festive shapes and colors are available at your local pet store. …and remember, moderation is the key!

Happy Holidays!

Source: metrowestdailynews.com

Safety Tips for Turkey Day

As if Aunt Edna’s giblet stuffing wasn’t enough to worry about on Thanksgiving…then there’s your dog or cat.

Dogs and some cats enjoy the revelry at least as much as we do, with bits of this and that dropping on the floor, and delectable smells wafting around the house. But Thanksgiving shouldn’t be a free-for-all. There are certain items your pets should really avoid.

According to a Petfinder article, veterinarians experience an increased number of office calls due to digestive problems after the holidays. We’ve compiled a list of tips that will help you and your pet get through Thanksgiving safely.

Stuff Your Turkey, Not Your Pet

It's easy to want to give your dog or cat a plate full of turkey, mashed potatoes, and whatever else you think they might enjoy. But that's a bad idea. Overindulging in fatty foods can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, or pancreatitis. A few bites of skinless turkey on a healthy pet’s normal food is fine, but resist pleading for more.

Keep ‘Em Busy

For dogs, put a bit of his regular food in a Kong, and then stuff a little boneless, skinless turkey, sweet potatoes and gravy in the Kong (very similar to what we offer at Morris Animal Inn for Thanksgiving boarders!). It's not much food, but it will keep him occupied for a long time. For cats, you might consider offering some catnip in a safe, quiet room.

Tire ‘Em Out

A dog who has been on a big walk or fetched the ball a zillion times, or a cat who has played several sessions of bird or mouse catching will be much more likely to run out of energy during the feast than one who's been idle all day. The bottom line: a tired pet is a good pet on Thanksgiving.

No Bones About It

Cooked turkey bones are dangerous to your pets. They're potential choking or digestive hazards, so don't leave plates with bones lying around. Put plates in an unreachable area if you can't dispose of everything properly right away.

Sage Wisdom

Sage and some other herbs used on holidays like Thanksgiving have essential oils that can cause tummy upset and central nervous system depression if a pet eats them in large quantities. The average dog or cat isn't going to gobble down a fistful of sage, but keep herbs out of reach just in case.

Don't Cry Over Onions

Onions are toxic to dogs and cats. They can lead to a dangerous form of anemia that may not be detected for days. Make sure your pets stay away from the pearly whites, yellows, and reds.

Don't Give Her the Raw Deal

Unless your pet is already on a raw diet, we don’t recommend plopping a piece of raw turkey in her bowl (the change from her regular food might cause an upset stomach). But more importantly, keep your pets away from uncooked dough for bread, rolls or pastries. Once raw dough is ingested, it will rise in your pet’s stomach, potentially causing swelling, pain, vomiting and bloating—conditions that may send you and your pet to the ER.

Avoid Yappy Hour

Some pets actually seem to enjoy alcoholic drinks. Walk away from your drink that's set on the coffee table, and Lulu may get lit. Pets and booze are a bad mix. Your pet may not do anything embarrassing she'll regret in the morning, but she could become disoriented and quite ill. Too much alcohol can even lead to a coma and death, so watch where you – and others – put their drinks.

By following a few basic tips, your dog will enjoy a fun, safe Thanksgiving. Now if only you could avoid Aunt Edna's stuffing…

*Sources: Petfinder, Modern Dog Magazine

Converting the Outdoor Cat

More and more research has indicated that the overall health and general lifespan of cats can be greatly enhanced by keeping them indoors, particularly in the colder days of fall and winter. But for a cat that has enjoyed the freedom of the wild his whole life, the transition inside can be a tough one...for the cat, for you and your family, and for other household pets. Luckily, if a pet owner anticipates the potential problems associated with transitioning a fully outdoor, or indoor-outdoor cat to a strictly indoor one, these problems can be greatly minimized. 

Safety First

First and foremost, if the cat you plan to transition was previously stray, be absolutely sure to have him examined by a veterinarian, and discuss spaying or neutering before bringing him into your home. These cats should first be quarantined (with their own food, water, litter, resting areas and scratching post, etc.) from other pets in your home to avoid the potential spread of disease. This separation also helps acclimate the new cat to your home environment and to using a litter box. Your resident pets are dependent on your judgement and protection, so don't expose them to a new animal all of a sudden!


Prep Your Home
If you don't currently have other pets or are new to being a cat owner, you should take some time to kitty-proof your home before allowing him to explore beyond his private quarters. A good rule of thumb is that anything unsafe for a toddler is unsafe for a cat. This includes poisonous plants like lilies, small objects (choking hazards), breakables and valuables, window blind cords and electrical cords. Preparing your home for the new cat will make the transition much safer for the cat and easier on you!


Make Introductions

Once your cat has been given a clean bill of health and appears to be comfortable in his own quarters, you can SLOWLY introduce him to your other pets. This can be a very stressful time; other pets may feel threatened and your home can become chaotic. Start by feeding your pets on opposite sides of a door or a baby gate. If this goes well, you can increase their exposure to one another little by little during mealtimes. Finally, let them see and smell each other, rub each other's faces if desired, and test the waters with verbalization. Throughout this process, be sure that there are plenty of litter boxes, toys, food and water bowls, etc. so that there is no need to compete. And if any aggressive behavior erupts, be ready to separate the pets and try again another day.

After the animals have been introduced, invite the human members of the house to slowly approach the new cat. If you have young children, supervise all interaction and prohibit any rough petting, tail-pulling or teasing. Cats are independent creatures, so it is best to let them decide when to seek out human attention rather than the reverse. After time, most cats will get cozy with you, each in his own way. 


Keep It Interesting

The last step of the transition is to provide lots of opportunities for the former outdoors-kitty to be mentally and physically stimulated. After having free reign, hunting and chasing, he will probably find indoor life to be a bit boring, so schedule time for one-on-one and solitary play, puzzle-solving, food-searching and critter videos. 




Ease the Transition

If the process is a bumpy one, you can try sprinkling/rubbing some feline facial pheromones on the cat(s). This decreases anxiety and the tendency to "mark" territory. Although many cats have been successfully transitioned to the indoors, some cats will inevitably prefer the stimulation that only the outdoors can provide. But ideally, your efforts will be rewarded, with your previously outdoor kitty wondering what life was even like before he became a happy housecat.