Gifts You Still Have to Find for the Furry Members

He’s making a list, checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty and nice…

Santa Paws is coming to town.

Most of the gifts are purchased and wrapped and under the tree, right? Well, maybe not, and maybe some of the gifts you still have to find are for the furry members of the household. You’ve put some catnip or a bone in a stocking before, but maybe this year you’re looking for something different. 

Bestproducts.com has a slideshow of ideas. 

The Howliday Box : a gift box with a variety of gifts for that hard-to-shop-for dog.

Facial Massage Roller for Cats : more ways for cats to prove they’re in charge of what you do for them.

Apollo Peak MosCATo wine: for those nights cuddling in front of a crackling fire (don’t forget to pick up some human wine for yourself).

The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth: for those dogs who like a gourmet touch to their food.

And if you are that horse-lover who always really wanted a unicorn, you can get your horse its very own unicorn costume!

One thing to be aware of is that if you wrap up a great food treat and help the dog open it, it is entirely possible that from that day forward, the dog will think that every present is for her and will want to help you unwrap it.
And if you have cats, there’s nothing they’ll like better than the boxes the presents come in. 

Something in Common with You & Your Dog

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

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

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

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

Some ideas of exercise to do with your dog:

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

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

What are some cat myths you have heard?

Sometimes, we think we know some facts about cats, but it turns out that those facts are actually myths. Even the most ardent cat-lover isn’t immune to believing them.

The first myth that most people probably believe is that cats should drink milk. While it’s true they may love the taste of it, and some are even more partial to whipped cream, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is good for them. They are can possibly be lactose intolerant, just like many humans. You’ll need to find another treat for them.

Another myth that people might believe about cats is that they hate water. While they may not enjoy swimming, cats are actually fascinated by water, especially running water. They may prefer drinking out of the bathroom faucet to their water dish, and even enjoy sitting on the edge of the tub while you take a bath. 

One of the saddest myths is the idea that cats shouldn’t be in homes with pregnant women or babies, because of fears of contracting toxoplasmosis or the cat “stealing” the baby’s breath. Toxoplasmosis can be a risk, but it’s a risk not only from cat litter, but also potentially raw meat or digging in the garden. This is a great time to give someone else in the household the opportunity to learn a new chore of cleaning out the litter box.

And cats don’t steal a baby’s breath. Rather, they just love to cuddle up next to something warm and soft.

Another truth about cats: They love to lodge at Morris Animal Inn!

Aging Pets

You’ve noticed some little things, lately. Maybe they're not jumping up on the couch or bed with you like they used to. Maybe they can’t hear you when you call their name. Maybe your pet seem a little confused or anxious.

We like to think our pets will be around forever, because the thought of them getting older and dying is too hard, but the truth of the matter is that our pets, like us, do age.

Aging can happen before we are ready or aware of it, because dogs don’t live as long as humans, and different breeds will age sooner or later than other breeds.  Larger dogs will age more quickly than smaller dogs, but most might be considered “senior” around the age of seven, with some being considered senior as young as age five.

Because your dog may not outwardly look old, you may not realize that underneath all that fur, there may be medical issues such as arthritis, heart, kidney, or liver disease. These are all common for senior pets, and an exam by your veterinarian can diagnose them and help you understand how to best care for their health.

If your dog is aging and needs a little extra love and care, well, then that’s okay. They are not only your companion, but you are theirs too.

Source: Vetstreet.com, AVMA.org

Cats & People Food Go Together?

The sound of a can opener opening a can of tuna can make the cats come running. The smell of the chicken resting on the kitchen counter can make cats think it’s for them, and look at you like you’re in the wrong when you chase them off.

People food is often a special treat for them, but there are foods other than the usual fish and chicken that cats may like too. Cats’ tastes can be as varied as anyone’s tastes, and they can try new foods (just remember to always check with your veterinarian about dietary changes). Every once in a while, cats will like strange food items such as Doritos or lollipops. They will try to get at them when you are eating them but those will not be vet-approved. On the healthier side, cats may like treats such as:

•          Green Beans
•          Sweet Potatoes
•          Plain low-fat yogurt
•          Spinach
•          Blueberries

If you choose to try any of these foods as a treat for your cat, and your vet approves, make sure they are cut into small enough pieces so they don’t choke, and make sure that anything cooked is baked or steamed. These foods shouldn’t replace your cat’s meals, but instead should be given sparingly. They can replace packaged treats. You will also need to make sure your cat doesn’t have any bad reactions to them, so check for digestive or behavioral changes. If the food agrees with your cat, it might help them stay healthy, boost their immune system, and maintain their weight. 

At Morris Animal Inn there are some healthy treats for your cats such as mahi mahi, lobster consommé and other catch o' the day snacks. Ask about it when you make your next reservation for your favorite feline's lodging stay. 

Source: petmd.com 

My Dog is Chewing Her Paws - Again!

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

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

Dry Skin and Hormonal imbalances.

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

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

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

Peace of Mind Your Cat is Well Cared For

It’s more likely we will lodge our dogs than our cats, but boarding cats is an option too. 

When we lodge our cat, we have someone to monitor and feed them on a regular basis, checking the litter box for regularity, giving them opportunities to play and updating us on how they're doing. We have peace of mind our cat is well-cared for.

At Morris Animal Inn, there are three options of cat lodging:

• Condos, for one cat, which have two levels in which to play and rest.
• Deluxe Condos, which have four levels for up to two cats from the same family
• Luxury Suites, which have multiple levels and climbing areas for up to five cats from the same family.

Each of these allows your cat to have

• A low-stress environment
• Separate spacious accommodations
• Comforts of home and more!

Now, if you can just get the cat out from under the bed and into the carrier, you’ll be all set. 

My Dog is a Loner... Help!

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

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

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

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

Safe, Easy, Stress Free for your Dog & Cat

You’ve been waiting for your vacation for a long time. Your tickets are purchased, hotel is booked, and packing list is made. There’s one last errand to run, and that’s getting your pet to Morris Animal Inn. Unfortunately, timing doesn’t work quite right with your schedule.

There was consideration to lodge your pet at places close to your home or destination. You’ve even heard about airport lodging facilities. The only problem is, you don’t know much about them, and you really want your pet to be in a place that you know and love.

You don’t have to worry anymore. We have solved your transportation problem with our private dog and cat chauffeur service to and from Morris Animal Inn. 

This service is safe, easy and stress free, giving you peace of mind, and you will get a report when your dog reaches the Inn.

If you would like to take advantage of this for your upcoming trip, fill our our easy form. 

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.

A Dog's Good Outlook on Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dum dum da dum, dum dum da dum…

The traditional wedding march with the bride walking down the aisle is still a staple at many weddings, but what’s new at weddings is the inclusion of pets in the ceremony.

Celebrities have been doing it—you can see pictures of the pets included in the last few years in the weddings of Adam Sandler, Gene Simmons, Miranda Lambert, Ellen DeGeneres, Jennifer Aniston and others—and other people have been catching on to the idea too. Earlier this year, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s Puli Sheepdog, Beast, walked bride Priscilla Chan down the aisle at the couple’s surprise wedding.

It’s one of the most important days in a person’s life, and because pets are important to people also, they are being included in that most important day. In a time when many weddings end up blending human families together, pets are also a part of that family blending.

If you want to include your pets in your wedding, we are here to help you. Our new wedding service will help you to plan out how to get your pets to and from the wedding, and even give them a little pampering of their own.

Having your dogs as part of your wedding celebration can be great fun for everyone—just don’t let them drink the champagne. 

What's Making Your Dog or Cat Sick?

You know what it’s like to feel sick. You ate the wrong thing, or have a virus that wreaks havoc on your intestines.

Did you know your dog or cat can feel the same way? 

Our pet kids are important to us, but they can’t always tell us when they are sick. We need to be tuned in to their normal behavior and habits in order to know when something is “off” with them. When in doubt, call your veterinarian and take your canine or feline in for a checkup.

Giardia is a parasite that can live in your pet’s intestines. It usually happens more in puppies than older dogs, but can happen to any dog or cat. This parasite is picked up by drinking water or something else that has been contaminated with feces. If they have this parasite and becomes sick from it, the disease is called giardiasis, resulting in diarrhea, weight loss, poor condition and potentially death if not treated.

If your pet does have giardiasis, your vet will probably prescribe medication and a follow-up appointment will be necessary. When the medication is finished, you’ll want to take the following precautions:

• ·         Bathe & rinse your pet (wear gloves & do the hind end last)
• ·         Disinfect food bowls and toys
• ·         Steam clean upholstery and carpeting
• ·         Disinfect hard surfaces

Because a dog is contagious while they have Giardia, even as they are going through treatment, you will want to limit your pet’s contact with other dogs and humans. If your pet attends a group play environment such as dog daycare or dog parks it may be necessary to keep them home for a few weeks so other dogs are not at risk. 

You’ll also want to make sure your other pets, if you have them, do not also have the parasite.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, your dog or cat should be feeling better in a couple of weeks and can resume all social activities. 

Share or Not Share Your Bed with Your Dog?

Pets are part of the family. But does that mean all family members should share the same bed?

The AKC found that 21% of dog owners let their dogs sleep with them to help keep them warm. They also learned that those who do let their dogs sleep with them have less room in bed for themselves because the dog takes up more space.

While it can be fun and comforting to cuddle with your pet, if your dog is taking up more space than you are, you might not be getting as good a night’s sleep as you should. You also need to be sure that your dog isn’t carrying any fleas or ticks, or that a small dog won’t be injured. Train your dog early on whether you want them to sleep with you or not ... otherwise they just might start telling you where YOU are going to sleep. 

If you decide against letting your dog sleep with you, you can teach your dog to stay off and go to their own bed. This will take some time, patience, and plenty of treats. You’ll need to lure your dog to his bed into a down position, give the bed a name, such as bed, and reward the dog when he lies down. You can get the detailed instructions from the AKC. This can be helpful in keeping your dog off of other furniture, as well.

Make sure though, that your dog’s bed is special for him, comfortable, and warm, with some great toys, so that he’ll want to go there.

Prepare Your Dog for July 4th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Play with your dog during the fireworks.

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

• Bring them to Morris Animal Inn for lodging.

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

The Benefits of Training Your Dog

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

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

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

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

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

·         Stress Relief

·         Exercise

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

·         Higher quality of life together

·         Build a better bond with each other

·         Entertainment

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

The Cat's Meow

You see it move, slightly, out of the corner of your eye.

Your attention is caught.

It moves again. You are vigilant, watching it closely to see what it will do next.

Your entire body is taut, ready to move.

It moves again, and you pounce.

You are a cat who just caught a toy your person has bought for you. You don’t care that you are entertainment for them; you just love the thrill of the hunt. And you know they are happy you aren’t taking this time to knock stuff onto the floor or attack them as they innocently wander past your lair.

Cats have a need to hunt, but with their indoor lifestyle, amid the cozy blankets and soft places, they often don’t get as much of an opportunity as they would like to be able to exercise those instincts they have.

The good news is that there are a number of toys—both for sale and that you can find at home—for cats that will keep them occupied and interested, such as a wand with feathers, a crumpled paper or foil ball, the red light of a laser pen (just make sure to not shine it in the cat’s eyes). Even an empty paper bag after you’ve brought home the groceries is fun for cats.

Remember that there are certain items that are not good for your cat to play with: paper clips, rubber bands, plastic bags, string, anything chewable.

Another great reason to stimulate your cat with play is that it is a bonding experience for both of you—and maybe even reduces your boredom as well.

If you need help keeping your kitty entertained, bring them to us to lodge. We have kitty chaser games, teaser sessions, a kitty playroom, kitty TV and more prey activities which is the “cat’s meow”! 

Kitty on the Prowl Video

Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

You’ve got the perfect dress. Your bridesmaids and groomsmen have all said yes. The venue is confirmed. The flowers are what you’ve always wanted, you’ve agreed on music, and you’re marrying the person of your dreams. There’s just one thing missing.

How will you get your pets to the ceremony?

You’ve bought cute little bride or groom outfits or accessories for them, and although you haven’t quite decided how they’ll get down the aisle, you know they’re a part of your family and should be there on your big day. After all, what could be cuter than having your dogs at your wedding along with the world’s cutest flower girls and ring bearers?

This is where we can help. Morris Animal Inn’s new service transports your dog(s) with one of our wedding attendants to the venue and then back to Morris Animal Inn to lodge while you enjoy your day and head off to your honeymoon. Your pets can also have wedding day grooming and spa treatments, just like you. Your dog can get a bath and fluffed dry, and even get a spritz of perfume or cologne. Does your dog need a manicure? She can get her nails cut, filed, and polished, just like yours.

Think you’ll miss your dog while you’re away on your honeymoon? Give your dog a similar experience. While you swim in the ocean or hotel pool, your dog can swim in ours. On a cruise meeting other people? Your dog can go to group play.

It’ll be one of the most memorable days of your life—for both of you.