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 

Spring Pet Safety Outdoors

With beautiful weather finally calling our names to get outside, pet owners should take steps to make sure enjoying the outdoors is safe for you and your pet. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) offers tips on what to watch for while enjoying the great outdoors.

No grazing – If your dog likes to do more than just smell the flowers, consider putting up netting or fencing temporarily to prevent your pet from chomping on plants. Many common flowers and plants can actually be toxic to pets, including bulb tulips, azaleas, chrysanthemums and lilacs. If you enjoy hiking or going for trail walks with your pet, discourage them from grazing along the sides of trails.

Bug bites bite! – The best way to prevent bugs from affecting your pet is a year-round flea and tick prevention program, but pet owners should still always be on the lookout for a stray insect. Always check your pet thoroughly after a woodsy walk or a long time spent outdoors for any bugs that may be carried inside. Buzzing bees could be problematic for curious dogs, too, as these low-flying bugs can prove tempting to snap out of the air. Discourage your dog from playing a game of “bite the bee”, and if your pet does chomp on a stinger, call your vet right away.

Creature discomforts – You and your pet aren’t the only ones out and about this time of year. A range of wild creatures come out to play, and they may be of interest to dogs. Though it may look cute for your pet to check out that rabbit hole, a dog investigating another animal’s territory could lead to confrontation or injury. It’s important to be mindful of skunk sprays, snake bites and protective animal mothers. It’s best to prevent face to face encounters between wild animals and your pet altogether.

Training comes in handy – A well-trained dog is a good companion year round, and training certain commands can help your pet stay safe outside in spring and summer, too. While a standard “sit” command is always useful to put your dog’s attention back on you, some of the most important commands are “come” and “leave it.” A dog that is well trained in these commands will be less likely to pursue a potentially dangerous situation.

Visit the APDT website for more outdoor tips!

Dogs and Cats Eat Grass.... Why?

Why dogs and cats eat grass is a common question. Do they just like the way it tastes? In researching why they eat grass, we found that this can be normal for both dogs and cats. There are some theories as to why this is the case.

For cats, one theory according to petmd.com, is the juice in the grass contains folic acid, which is an essential vitamin that they received from their mother's milk. Sometimes cats throw up after eating grass because they lack the necessary enzymes to break it down in their system.

For dogs, grass can actually aid them in digestion according to pets.webmd.com. The issue is if their is an accidental ingestion of  grass that has been treated with chemicals. If you notice your dog is eating grass frequently, a trip to the vet might be necessary because it could be more serious. This is important to do for both dogs and cats.

In the end, there seems to be several different reasons why dogs and cats like to eat grass... What do you think?

FIDO'S FAVORITE FALL HIKING

Fall is one of the finest seasons! The air becomes brisk and cool, the humidity settles down (as does our hair) and nature has its last hurrah with a vibrant burst of warm colors before the muted tones of winter settle in. Now is the perfect time to view the earthy hues. You don’t need to travel far to experience it. Lace up your hiking boots and step into the wilderness of New Jersey (yes it exists) with Fido in tow.  Not only is this a wonderful way to pass a fall day, but it is a great form of exercise and will help you and your canine companion work up a healthy sweat. We’ve got the low-down on some of the best hiking trails for you and your dog in Northern Jersey. The following places allow canines as long as they are leashed.

Morristown National Historic Park, Morristown

Not only does this park contain beautiful glimpses of the fall foliage but you can enjoy a dose of history as well. The park is made up of three sites: Fort Nonsense, Jockey Hollow and the Ford Mansion (which dogs are not allowed in). This was where General George Washington and the Continental Army camped out during the grueling and bitter winter of 1779-1780. At Jockey Hollow, you can walk around and explore the huts the soldiers built. This spot was chosen because of its vantage point high on the hill, allowing the army to catch sight of the British if they tried a sneak attack. You can also walk around Tempe Wick’s house which is where General Arthur St. Clair stayed during the winter of 1779. Though your dog may not appreciate the historical aspects of this park, he or she will enjoy the park’s easy walking trails.

Photo Courtesy of OakleyOriginals



Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area, Boonton

This reservation has gorgeous scenery and interesting and unusual geological formations to see. For instance, the park is well known for Tripod Rock, a 160 ton boulder that rests atop three smaller rocks and has remained perfectly balanced for centuries. This rock is known as a glacial erratic because it was moved to this spot by the force of glaciers.

Hacklebarney State Park, Long Valley

The Black River runs through this park and is good for fishing at any time of year. Hemlock trees line the winding hilly trails that offer beautiful views of the river, its estuaries and small waterfalls. Wooden tables placed throughout the park make it easy for an impromptu picnic. These trails are more difficult than the trails at Jockey Hollow.

Watchung Reservation, Watchung

In total, there are 13 miles of marked trails to enjoy throughout this reservation. Sights to see are Lake Surprise, the Deserted Village or Feltsville which is great for a scary Halloween themed hike. You can also see Seeley’s Pond, and a large, beautiful pine forest that was planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s. The reservation meanders between the ridges of the Watchung Mountains. 

There is no better way to enjoy the fall season than by heading out to the woods for a hike with your dog. Just make sure to watch out for ticks. Thoroughly scan you and your dog’s body after your hike. Continue to use tick preventative products like Frontline, even in the colder months. Morris Animal Inn carries Frontline so stock up if you need to. Remember to keep your dog leashed at all times during your hikes as it is a requirement at these parks. With these tips in mind, you and Fido are set to head into nature with nothing but the crunch of leaves beneath your feet and the golden amber foliage above.

Autumnal Events for the Dog Lover

Autumn officially begins this Friday the 23^rd. We have already felt its upcoming arrival with temperatures this week and last week dipping into the low 50s. But we truly know fall is upon us when the flannel sheets are taken out to keep us warm at night, pumpkin lattes become the beverage of choice, and leaves and acorns crunch under our feet. Though fall can turn the landscape into a scenic painting, the colder weather can cause some of us to begin our hibernation early, holing up in our warm houses with mugs of apple cider. There’s nothing wrong with that, it happens to be one of the best features of fall. But what about Fido? How can you keep the carefree nature of summer that your pets enjoyed so much going into the cooler months? Not a problem! There are a slew of fall-themed dog events happening this season and we’ve got the low-down!

Puptoberfest

Fall wouldn’t be the same without this popular canine event! Now in its seventh year, this Eleventh Hour Rescue event has become an autumnal staple of the season. Originally created as a reunion for the shelter’s adopters, it has grown into something much more! This year’s fest will include fun activities, food, music, entertainment, and of course dogs, dogs and more dogs! Additionally, Puptoberfest will feature a bevy of animal friendly vendors including our sister company Morris K9 Campus! Stop by and say hi!

When: 9/24/11  11:00AM-5:00PM

Where: Craigmeur Recreation Complex, Rockaway, NJ

Strong Dogs Day
This is the Somerset Hills YMCA's second year hosting this event which they hope encourages people to get outside and exercise with their dog. There will be a blessing of the dogs at 11:00AM followed by a community dog walk. Games, contests, and prizes will keep the fun going for hours! Stop by Morris Animal Inn's table for free gifts!
When: 9/24/11 10:00AM-1:00PM
Where: Somerset Hills YMCA 140 Mt. Airy Rd Basking Ridge, NJ

Howl N' Hike

Help Noah’s Ark raise funds for their animal shelter this October! Sign up to walk around scenic Horseshoe Lake with your furry companion and other dog owners. Make sure to raise funds ahead of time by collecting pledges from family members, friends, co-workers and anyone who wants to support a good cause. Turn in your pledges the day of the event. The top three people to gather the most pledges, will win awesome prizes! Other activities will include a canine athletics demo, Pet Costume Parade, Jack-O-Lantern Carving Contest, Microchip Clinic, and Adoption Alley that will put adorable pets looking for their forever homes on display!

When: 10/16/11   12:00PM-4:00PM

Where: Horseshoe Lake, Succasunna NJ

Morris K9 Campus Fall Festival: Tips, Tricks and Tails

This exciting event will be held by our sister company, Morris K9 Campus. Festivities will feature flying disc demos, agility demos, doggie dancing, a K9 Costume Parade, “Ask the Trainer” and more! There will be refreshments for dogs and people, prizes, and amazing giveaways! Pick up a key at Morris K9 Campus to see if you can unlock the prizes inside the Haunted Treasure Chest. You just might win a $100 mall gift certificate or a Kindle, among other prizes! Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of unopened dog or cat food to help feed shelter animals in the area. There will also be on-site dog and cat adoptions from local area shelters such as Eleventh Hour Rescue, Noah’s Ark, and the Randolph Pound.

When: 10/23/11 12:00PM-4:00PM

Where: Morris K9 Campus 1 Aspen Drive, Randolph, NJ

The weather might be getting cooler but dog festivals are just beginning to heat up! So go ahead and sip that cider but don’t forget to take advantage of the temperature dip. This type of weather makes outdoor activities easier on your pet. So make sure to attend these events with Fido in tow!

Other Fall Events (Not Dog Specific)
Morristown Festival on the Green
When: 10/2/11  12:00AM-5:00PM
Where: The Morristown Green and surrounding area

Bernardsville Unity Day
When: 10/1/11  11:00AM-5:00PM
Where: Nervine Memorial Park, Bernardsville, NJ
Morris Animal Inn will have a table at these events! Please stop by, say hello, and win a free giveaway. We would love to see you!

PAUSE FOR PAWS

They click on the floor announcing their arrival. They chase after squirrels in the backyard and move faster than you ever thought possible when you fill their food bowl. It's your dog's paws! Your dog’s paws are incredibly important, so we think it is time to pause for the paws and understand a little better how these fascinating parts work and what we as dog owners can do to take care of them.

PAW ANATOMY 101

Most dogs are quadruped which is a fancy, scientific way of saying your dog walks and runs on four feet! According to CanisMajor, dogs walk on their toes like a horse, not on their soles like humans. The four pads on a dog’s feet are essential for absorbing the shock of walking everyday on hard floors and cement sidewalks. They provide an element of traction so that Fido doesn’t slip and slide everywhere (though some slick man-made floors are too much for Mother Nature’s natural non-slip socks). Most dogs have dew claws (an extra nail, higher up on the leg) on the insides of their two front legs, a smaller percentage have dew claws on their hind legs and an even smaller percentage have two dew claws on their back legs. Because dew claws no longer serve a purpose, they are considered vestigial digits, though they can sometimes be helpful for holding a bone between the paws. Since dew claws are placed higher up on the leg, they do not come into contact with the ground. But it is important to remember to trim these nails as they can grow quite long and become uncomfortable for your dog. Because of the dew claws location on the leg, they are sometimes forgotten.

SEASONAL ISSUES

When extreme weather conditions plague us, they also plague your dog’s paws. Very hot temperatures can make pavement scalding to the touch and burn the pads of their paws. As a result, it is crucial to avoid walking your dog during the hottest times of day. Stick to early morning walks or late evening walks as the sun is setting. Likewise, the bitter cold of winter with the salt used on icy sidewalks, can all irritate your pup’s paws, not to mention upset their stomach if licked off their paws. When walking your dog in the winter, make sure to wash their paws after your walk with lukewarm water.

NAILING IT

Fido’s nails get naturally filed down from walking on hard floors and cement but some dog’s nails seem to grow faster than others. The longer the nails, the more likely they are to scratch your hardwood floors, your bare legs, or even your face during playtime. Long nails are also uncomfortable for your pet. To keep your pooch comfortable and to protect your skin and the furniture, make sure your dog gets regular nail trims. Trimming your dog’s nails can be tricky especially if you have a dog that despises the procedure, (most dogs do). It is important to be careful not to cut the quick of the nail which is the vein. In clear nails, the quick looks like a darkish line but in black nails it is very difficult to see. To save you the trouble, stop by Morris Animal Inn for a nail trim and a filing.

THE PAW LICKER

Photo Courtesy of luluemon athletica

This issue can easily become every dog owner’s worst nightmare. What starts as a seemingly innocuous habit done out of boredom can quickly turn into an obsessive routine that can turn your pup’s paw red and raw. Unfortunately, the cause of this habit can be attributed to many factors including boredom, irritation, allergies, and stress. If your dog is in an incessant paw-licker, consult your veterinarian to determine the cause.

If you follow some of these paw tips you will keep Fido pawsitively healthy and walking proud!

Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe Outside

Irene came and went. In her wake, she left a path of destruction: downed power lines, uprooted trees, and rivers where streets once were. If your backyard was ruined, here are some things to consider when rebuidling your yard in order to keep your canine safe from certain hazards.

Fence In Your Yard

Photo of Courtesy Nash

Dogs are natural born explorers with little regard for a map or compass, relying solely on their olfactory senses and stellar hearing capabilities. They can hear and smell interesting stimuli that is outside the perimeter of your yard. Unfortunately, these senses may not always be enough to lead them back to home sweet home. Because there is nothing more upsetting than a lost dog, it is highly important your yard is fully fenced in to prevent this from happening. If your dog is a jumper or a large breed dog, make sure to install a tall fence that is sturdy, strong, and can resist the repeated pressure of your dog jumping against it. If your dog likes to dig, it is crucial to reinforce the fence in order to deter your pooch from recreating a scene out of The Great Escape and tunneling to the other side. Make sure the fence is placed deep in the ground so this scenario cannot happen. Do not place objects like garbage cans near a fence that your canine can jump on and use as a trampoline to hop over the fence. Remember, if you are an owner that leaves your dog chained to a tree in the yard, it is not the safest option if you are not there to monitor and there is no fence. The rope or chain can easily break and your dog can get loose.

Lawn Maintenance

Before applying fertilizers, herbicides, or insecticides, remove any water bowls or dog toys from the yard. Wait until chemicals have completely dried up. Some sources suggest waiting up to four days before allowing your dog to go out in the yard. Consider applying the chemicals in shifts and monitor your pup when outside to ensure he or she steers clear of the infected area for the suggested time frame. Keep chemicals in its original packaging and store them in a spot your pet cannot access. According to the ASPCA Poison Control Center, cocoa mulch, if heavily ingested can have a similar effect on dogs as chocolate causing vomiting and diarrhea, so steer clear of this mulch. The most poisonous pesticides for dogs are slug and snail bait, gopher and rat poison, fly bait and systemic insecticides. For the safety of your precious pooch, it is best to invest in natural, organic, and chemical-free lawn substances to avoid this situation all together.

Photo Courtesy of tar0

Holes

The potholes that continue to plague your driveway every year after winter may make you crazy but you should also turn your attention to the divets and holes dotting your grassy yard. If your dog takes off after a squirrel or rabbit and their paw happens to land in a hole, your pooch is liable to strain a muscle or sprain an ankle. Patch up holes with topsoil and replant grass in these areas. Enlist the help of a landscaper if lawn maintenance is not your speciality.

Letting your dog out in the backyard should be an easy way for your pooch to enjoy the outdoors. If you follow these simple steps to safeguard your yard for Fido, it can be a walk in the park. 

Tips for the Dog Days of Summer

Photo Courtesy of jared

Summertime and the livin’ is easy. While you may be ready to fire up the barbeque, fill up the pool, and bring out the popsicles, some extra safety precautions should be taken into consideration regarding your dog in the warmer months. Enjoy the sudden change in temperatures and the rise in sunny days but keep Fido safe and cool. Read on for some quick and easy tips to get the most out of this summer with your dog.

Beat the Heat

Avoid possible heat stroke by keeping your dog cool during the hottest parts of the day. Move your walks from the middle of the day to early morning or early evening when the sun is at its lowest point in the sky. Both you and your pooch will be happier for it. Before taking your dog for a walk, try this tip from Andrea Arden, pet expert. Soak a bandanna in water and freeze it then wrap it around your dog’s neck before taking him or her on a walk. It is also important to remember that you should never, ever leave your dog alone in the car. Even cracking a window is not sufficient. In the summer, even cars that are parked in the shade can quickly rise in temperature.. According to the Office of Climate, Water, and Weather Services, in a time lapse of 60 minutes, a parked car can reach up to 123 degrees Fahrenheit even if the temperature outside is only as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun’s shortwave radiation quickly heats dark objects like seats and the dashboard. These hot objects then warm the car’s internal air, creating a dangerous hotbox.

Paw Protection
You know what it feels like when you run barefoot across hot pavement or sand? It hurts, right? If it’s uncomfortable for you, chances are it will bother your dog’s paws too. Be conscious of your canine’s paw-pads and walk at the coolest times of day or invest in a pair of dog booties to protect their little feet.

Lifeguard on Duty

A great way to ensure your furry friend stays cool is to fill a baby wading pool with water in your backyard. This way, when Fido marches out into the heat of your backyard, a cool-off is only a few feet away. All of these aquatic activities are part of what makes summer truly wonderful, but remember to always keep an eye on your pal no matter how good a swimmer he or she is and no matter how deep the water is. If you have an in-ground pool that your dog loves to jump in, consider putting a lifejacket on your dog when frolicking outside or purchase a pet ramp to make it easy for them to get out.

Hydrate

Don’t let your dog get parched this summer. Provide fun, refreshing treats like ice cubes, keep cool fresh water on hand at all times, and try this trick from Dogster.com: freeze canned dog food in a Kong to introduce more moisture into their diet.

Don't forget, Morris Animal Inn is an excellent place for dogs in the summer! With an indoor pool, outdoor wading pools, air conditioning, fun, and lots of fresh water for your pup, what more could you want?

Here comes the sun! Armed with these tips, you and your dog are ready to face anything the summer brings your way!

Sources: Dogster.com

Summer Break

It’s that time of year again! The days are longer and the nights are shorter. Flip flops become required footwear, hammocks become beds, and the kids and the dog are at summer camp. Wait, the dog? Yup, that’s right! Summer camp has long since surpassed the domain of sun-burned pre-teens. In fact, it is becoming more and more mainstream to see the furriest member of your family enjoying summer camp and all its benefits the same way your kids do. Your dog doesn't want to spend the whole summer cooped up inside watching the warm weather slip by any more than children home from school do. If your pup wants to have a wild and crazy summer, then Morris Animal Inn is the place to be.
With eight weeks of fun-filled summer camps lined up, there is a lot for you and your wet-nosed family member to choose from. We'll break it down for you!

Fit and Fun

This is the first official week of the Morris Animal Inn Summer Camps and it started off with leaps and bounds. With furry muscles marching on, our dogs of summer are moving it and shaking it in an effort to stay in top form and achieve their healthiest weight possible. Daily field trips to the outdoor lawns with engaging activities like "Mighty Dog Obstacle Course" and "Fido's Freestyle Fun" keep the exercise going, while aquatic workouts in our indoor pool and treadmill trots on our canine treadmill ensure your dog enjoys a day of fat busting activity. A healthy snack of fruity granola parfait keeps hunger at bay without packing on the pounds. If your dog missed the first round of the Fit and Fun camp, never fear! This camp returns on 7/18-7/21!

Circus Camp
Dogs love to clown around and we like giving them an excuse to do so! Back by popular demand, our Circus Camp will occur from 6/27-6/30 and 7/25-7/28. This camp includes specially designed outdoor activities that incorporate "Ball Juggling, Clown Relays, and Hound Hurdles" to name a few. Circus style fun in the pool keeps things far from monotonous with “Ringmaster Ring Toss and High Diving Horses”! Top each day of the week off with a Frozen Fruity Sno-Cone for a delectable cool-down.

Cowboy Camp
Howdy partner! It’s time to saddle up for our rodeo style camp that proves our Northeastern dogs can get Western when they want. From 7/11-7/14 and 8/8-8/11, our line-up of rodeo themed activities will have your dogs moving and having fun. From “Barrel Racing” to our “Cattle Drive to the OK Corral” in our spacious front yard, your dogs will be ready to giddy-up! No day of camp is complete without some splish splashing in the ole’ watering hole. Pool fun includes “Rodeo Relays and Diving to Dodge.” A light snack around the "campfire" peacefully ends each fun-packed day.

Jersey Shore
While Snooki will not appear as a surprise guest, our camp makes sure to celebrate Jersey Pride and all that our sandy beaches and miles of boardwalk offer! This camp occurs from 7/5-7/8 and 8/1-8/4.

Don’t let your dog spend the summer in a hot house! Provide them with weeks of fun outdoor activities and pool sessions. Our air-conditioned suites, indoor pool, outdoor kiddie pools, and bowls of fresh water with an afternoon snack will ensure your dog is cool and content. This summer, send all your kids to camp, including your furry ones!

What themed camps would you love to see for next year?

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Memorial Day weekend will soon be  upon us ushering in the ensuing summer months of popsicles, sunburn, and bathing suits worn like second-skins, so get ready! But before the festivities begin, take time to dog proof your house and backyard to ensure your Memorial Day Celebrations run smoothly for both you and your furry guests.

SCOOP THE YARD
If your celebration is outdoors in the backyard, make sure to mow the lawn and scoop any of your dog’s eliminations so no one steps onto a smelly surprise in your backyard. Have pooper scoopers available throughout the day to prevent this from happening.

THE AQUATIC LIFE
If your pool is open for the summer, make sure there is always a lifeguard on duty to watch youngsters and water-loving dogs. Some dogs can be excellent swimmers but can have trouble finding their way out of the pool or may wear themselves out. Investing in doggie life-jackets is always a safe and an excellent idea.

GUARD FOOD AND BEVERAGES
Make sure that alcoholic beverages are not lying on the ground or the edges of picnic tables within easy reach of your curious canine. Any type of alcoholic beverage is potentially poisonous to pets. Other foods you should never let your canine ingest are grapes, chocolate, and onions all of which can be poisonous to dogs. Since your grill will most likely be fired up and an abundance of meat will be floating around, protect the food from prying wet noses and flies with mesh food tents that open up like an umbrella to fit over wide platters of food. Tell guests to keep food scrap feeding to a minimum so that your dog does not get sick from too much grub and indulgent food that he or she is not accustomed to eating on a regular basis.

MOSQUITO PREVENTION
The later your party runs, the more likely mosquitoes will show up as extra guests you did not bargain for. Preventative measures such as citronella candles and bug spray can be used, but must be monitored. You do not want your dog to get anywhere near these substances as they can be toxic for Fido.

SAFEGUARD THE EXITS
With family and friends coming and going, it is likely that a door or gate might be left open. Keep a vigilant eye on the exits to prevent this from happening and tell all of your guests to do the same. Make sure that your pet has identification on, like a collar with identification tags.

BACK-UP PLAN
If the thought of keeping an eye on your dog, let alone cooking and cleaning for a large group of guests stresses you out, or your travel plans are taking you far from home, you can always bring your pup to Morris Animal Inn where we can help Fido or Fluffy celebrate the federal holiday in safety and style!

 

Tick and Flea Prevention

Oh no! Not ticks and fleas!

What are two five letter words that pet owners never want to think about? Ticks and fleas of course! Unfortunately, as the weather warms up, flea and tick populations increase and become an unpleasant reality. How can you tell if your pet has fleas or ticks and what can you do when faced with this situation?

Not to worry, Morris Animal Inn has got you covered with the best advice on handling this situation.


Critter Identification
Ticks:

American Dog Tick
Photo Courtesy of jkirkhart35

There are three different types of ticks prevalent in New Jersey: the deer tick, the Lone star Tick, and the American Dog tick. Deer ticks are the smallest and are black in color. The deer tick is a transmitter of Lyme disease. The American Dog tick is much larger in size, looks like a white or grey kernel of corn when engorged, and is the tick that is most frequently encountered. The American Dog Tick can be a transmitter of the Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The Lone star tick can be identified by the white spot on its back but is less common in this area.
Fleas:
Fleas appear as small red or black dots about the size of a pinhead and can be found on any part of the body, but tend to congregate around the neck and tail area of cats and dogs.

Preventative Measures
Ticks tend to favor wooded areas with overgrown grass. After every hike or walk with your dog, take the time to diligently scan his or her body for ticks. Use a brush or a flea/tick comb to slowly comb through the hair. If any fleas or ticks were on your dog’s body, it would get trapped in the fine tines of the comb. It is important to speak with your veterinarian about the best preventative measure but for owners convenience Morris Animal Inn carries Frontline for all size dogs and would be happy to administer the application.

Cures
Ticks:

http://www.dogtipper.com/

What do you do if you find a tick on your dog’s body? Use tweezers to pull the tick straight out, do not twist. Try not to grab the tick’s body but rather the mouthparts attached to your pet. Drop the tick in a jar of alcohol to kill it. If you want to be sure it is not a disease carrying deer tick, bring the tick preserved in alcohol to your local veterinarian to have it examined. Simply flushing a tick down the toilet will not kill it. Clean the bite wound with antiseptic.
Fleas:
Fleas are less dangerous than ticks but are much more annoying. As soon as a flea sucks blood it is able to reproduce and will soon lay eggs. To completely eradicate fleas from your pet and your home it is crucial to wash all bedding where your dog or cat sleeps in hot soapy water. Vacuum the entire house making sure to focus on baseboards and the corners of every room. Seal the vacuum bag in a plastic trash bag and either freeze it or pour flea powder into the bag to ensure the fleas do not return and then dispose in an outdoor trash receptacle. It may take several weeks to entirely wipe out those pesky fleas so continue to wash bedding, rugs, and pillows and become a vigilant with your vacuuming. If these natural solutions prove ineffective after several weeks, it may be time to invite an exterminator over. Just make sure that whatever fogger or spray is used contains an IGR, or insect growth regulator, to exterminate the flea in all its life cycles, from larva to adult.

To remove fleas from Fluffy or Fido, wash them in hot soapy water. There are many natural remedies out there that you may want to try before resorting to flea shampoos which contain harsh chemicals but may later prove to be necessary. Discuss your options with your veterinarian to determine the best and safest solution for your pet. If needed, Morris Animal Inn does provide flea shampooing.
Armed with these tips, you’ll be able to show any tick or flea whose boss!

What tick and flea remedies have you found most effective?

Sources:www.dogster.com, www.petplace.com,

Royal RUFF-ians!

Now that the royal wedding is officially over, along with the pageantry and fan fare, we can all take off our fancy hats and wrap up the Union Jack cupcakes. But wait! It doesn’t have to stop there! Have you forgotten the most royal member of your family?! For pet owners, it goes without saying that our tail wagging friends are always princes and princesses in our eyes, maybe not of England but certainly of the house! Let’s keep the celebration alive and reward them as such. Though Morris Animal Inn is miles from the U.K, we make it simple to pamper your cats and dogs as though they were the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge any day of the week.

Spa Day

Luxury and fun go hand in hand. Drop your prince or princess off at Morris Animal Inn for a day of activity, play, and pampering. Your dog will receive one on one time with their own Activities Counselor and can go for a jaunty stroll on our nature trail or play and cuddle in our indoor play suites. There’s even time for rest and relaxation in their own private suite where they will be provided with a tasty treat at snack time.

Aqua Massage

From all that playing at Morris Animal Inn, your royal highness could sure use a massage to soothe those weary muscles! Acquaint your dog with the world of water for the ultimate spa experience with our Aqua Massage. Your pooch will be suspended in warm water with eight adjustable jets designed to loosen tight joints. How pawsitively relaxing!

The Princess and the Pea
No need to double up on mattresses at Morris Animal Inn. Our Premium Beds are thick and specifically designed to provide maximum comfort and support. Even princesses wouldn’t feel a pea when lounging on this upgrade option.

Fairytale Storytime

Ensure your special ones go to bed with visions of fairy tales dancing in their heads by asking for our Tuck-In Service. A minty dental treat will accompany your pup's bedtime story as they slumber in dreamland.

Kitty Carriage Rides!

We know your cat loves basking in sunlight streaming through the windows so why don’t you allow Fluffy the unique experience of exploring our sunny nature trail from the coolest ride around, the Kitty SUV! An Activities Counselor will push your feline friend around our fenced in yards in the Kitty SUV which is safe and completely enclosed with large viewing windows fit for the royal promenade of a king or a queen!

How do you pamper your cat or dog?

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

Put Some Spring in That Paw!

Spring has sprung, leading many of us to turn our thoughts to Easter celebrations, spring cleaning and home improvement projects. But the change of season can be precarious for curious pets or their unknowing owners. Before you launch into your decorating regimen, seasonal projects or outdoor ventures, take a moment to learn about the most common springtime hazards for your furry friend.

Easter Treats and Decorations

Keep Easter lilies and candy bunnies in check—chocolate goodies are toxic to dogs and cats, and lilies can be fatal if ingested. Kitties also love to nibble on colorful plastic grass, which can lead to digestive woes.

                                         

                                         Window Screens

Many pet parents welcome the breezy days of spring by opening their windows, unknowingly put their pets at risk. This is especially true of cats, who are likely to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure your all of your screens are sturdy and safe before allowing your pets to take in the warm breezes.

Car Travel  

We all know dogs love to feel the wind on their furry faces, but the bed of a pick-up truck or the window of a moving-car is a dangerous spot for your pup. Flying debris and abrupt stops or turns can cause unwanted injury or infection. Pets in cars should always be secured in a crate or wearing a seatbelt harness designed especially for them.

Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning can be a great way to get rid of some common household dangers like poisonous bugs and debris your pet could ingest, but be sure to keep all cleaners and chemicals out of their reach. Almost all commercially sold cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to pets. Be sure to read and follow directions for proper use and storage of these products.

                                              Home Improvement

Paints, mineral spirits and solvents can be toxic to your pets. Read all labels thoroughly to see if a product is safe to use around your furry friends. Also, be cautious of physical hazards like nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It’s usually best to confine your dog or cat to a room during home improvement projects, just make sure they have plenty of food, water and stimulation to keep them happy!

Yard Work

Fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides keep our plants and lawns healthy and green, but their ingredients aren't meant for canine or feline consumption. Always store these products in inaccessible places and follow label instructions carefully. The ASPCA has a full list of garden tips.

Poisonous Plants

Growth is a sure sign of spring but beware, many popular springtime plants (Easter lilies, rhododendron and azaleas) are highly toxic to pets. The ASPCA also has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants for your home and garden.

Allergies

Pets can be allergic to foods, dust, plants and pollens, too. Allergic symptoms in dogs and cats can range from sniffling and sneezing to serious reactions. If you suspect your pet has a springtime allergy, make a visit to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

                                                      Bugs

Showers bring flowers, but flowers bring bugs! Make sure your pet is on year-round heartworm preventive medication and a flea and tick control program to combat the dangers of insects. Your veterinarian can recommend a plan designed specifically for your pet, and Morris Animal Inn can assist with Frontline applications.

The Outdoors

Warmer weather means more trips to the park, longer walks and an increased risk of pet wandering. Make sure your dog or cat has been microchipped for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address, cell phone and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (not choke) collars and sturdy leashes with the ability to extend for your pet’s enjoyment, and reign in when necessary. Come take a look at the spring collection of UpCountry collars in our lobby boutique!

 

By following these tips and allowing us to care for your pet while you can't, you and your pet are sure to fully enjoy the spring season!

Source: www.aspca.org