Winterize Your Pet

As we welcome a new year with the changing of the calendar, New Jersey residents once again prepare for the worst of the winter season. In addition to watching our heating bill rise, shovels and rock salt are selling off the shelves and the once busy streets are now quiet as people elect to stay indoors when the temperatures dip to dangerous lows.  But as you and your family avoid the blistering cold and cozy up in the living room with the fireplace burning, a problem arises: Your pet has to go out, and he can’t hold it any longer!

Taking the right precautions for your pet during the winter season is vital to keeping your dog or cat safe and healthy. Here are a few cold weather tips to help you and your pet through a successful winter.

1.      Keep your dog on leash while walking in the snow or ice. Dogs can lose their scent when the ground is heavily covered in snow which can lead to them getting lost. Always make sure you have a firm grip on the leash, just in case your dog decides to dart after another furry animal without warning.

2.      Dress your dog in a sweater or coat, especially for the shorter-haired breeds. Despite being covered with hair, your dog can be just as cold as you are when the temperature drops. By adding another layer you will help your dog stay comfortable on your daily walks.

3.      Try your best to avoid rock salt, as it can hurt or irritate your dog’s sensitive paws. As an alternative use sand or cat litter on the ice around your home to better suit your four legged friend.

4.      Be watchful of your dog’s diet, as many become less active in the winter season. Your dog may pack on some pounds in the winter due to over-feeding and less outdoor activity. If your dog understandably spends less time running around outside due to the cold weather, remember to be careful of how much you are feeding him.

5.      Bring your outdoor cat inside for the winter. If your cat normally spends a lot of time roaming around outside your home, it may be wise to have him come indoors when the weather gets really cold. Although they may not enjoy staying indoors all day, it will be better for their health in the long run.

6.      And finally, make sure to provide your pet with a warm cozy place to sleep. A comfy bed with blankets is sure to keep your pet warm and happy as we wait for the warm weather to return.


Sources:
The Salem News - Make Sure Your Pets Have a Warm Safe Winter:
http://www.salemnews.com/lifestyle/x1525003981/Make-sure-your-pets-have-a-warm-safe-winter

ASPCA - Cold Weather Tips:
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/cold-weather-tips.aspx

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

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

The Truth About Treadmills



http://www.metaphoricalplatypus.com/ via flickr


Treadmills: you may hate them with the wrath of Achilles or simply use them to hang clothes on, but there's now an even better use for them! Stop avoiding your treadmill and utilize it for your dog--you won't even have to break a sweat (only Fido will)! Read on for tips to help your fuzzy friend transition to the treadmill.

Why the Treadmill?
Why the treadmill you ask? Aside from the snow, rain and heat, juggling poop bags, holding an umbrella or toting boots isn't always ideal. But with a treadmill, your precious pooch never has to miss out on his or her daily walk! In addition, dogs that could stand to lose a few pounds are easier to get onto a treadmill than dragging them out into the elements. Just ask your veterinarian to provide you with some fitness or weight loss goals based on your pet's current fitness level, age and breed before beginning any serious exercise regimen.

The Little Engine That Could
Treadmills are a wonderful fitness resource for high-energy dogs. They provide an extra outlet of activity and allow you to push your spunky pal to the next level by simply increasing the treadmill speed. If your dog gets bored at home and begins to adopt unfavorable habits, it might be time to offer more engaging options for your canine and a treadmill might be just the ticket!

The Professional

Ready, Set, Go!
Start by getting your dog to stand on the treadmill and then immediately provide a treat. Once your dog is interested in the treadmill, turn it on with your dog standing near the treadmill and then provide another treat. It is not unusual for dogs to initially be frightened by the whirring sound of the treadmill so have patience and space this adjustment period out over a couple days. Before your first treadmill session, make sure your dog's stomach is empty and provide a "potty break". When you're ready to roll, keep your dog on a leash and hold it in your hand as you start the treadmill at a slow speed. Lure your dog forward with a treat and reward with words of praise. Eventually, the praise should suffice for treats and your dog will be on his or her way to a great fitness routine!

The Treadmill at Morris Animal Inn

Morris Animal Inn is very excited about our treadmill from Fit Fur Life. Designed with your pet's safety in mind, the Professional, has wire meshing on the sides to ensure your dog stays on track and the added feature of a harness, which attaches to the mesh sides, will keep any dog upright and safe. Fitness at Morris Animal Inn has never been better!

Let us know how you think your dog would do on the treadmill!

Sources: Squidoo

Pet Preparedness

At Morris Animal Inn, we believe that preparing for unpleasant situations can result in much more positive outcomes, so add pet preparedness to your to-do list for spring cleaning this year. Here are some tips to ensure the safety of the furriest members of your family no matter what comes your way.

A Home Away from Home

Before disaster strikes, have a game plan. Figure out ahead of time where you and your family can go with pets in tow. Have a list of potential places where your pet is welcome to stay, such as Morris Animal Inn or if necessary, the homes of friends and family who live outside the area. Be sure to ask ahead how last-minute reservations or drop-ins will be handled so there are no surprises.

Even if you're faced with a routine power outage, you can count on Morris Animal Inn to keep your pet comfortable with our back-up generators!

Stock up on Supplies

Once you have devised a back-up lodging plan, its important to have the necessary provisions and tools ready to go so you can get going quickly. Create and store your own Pet Emergency Kit containing Fluffy and Fido's essentials for up to two weeks:

http://www.dogtipper.com

• Ample supply of dry and wet food in air tight containers. (Switch the food out every month or so to make sure it doesn't spoil.)
• An extra leash, collar, and stash of poop bags 
• A small water and food bowl
• Medicines (Again, switch it out every month to ensure it doesn't go bad.)
• A box of kitty litter and an aluminum tray
• A handful of extra toys 
• A carrier for each of your pets padded with an extra bed, towels, or a soft blanket that smells of home
• Bottled water
• A basic first aid kit
• Vet records (Store in the same safe secure place that you keep important family documents like passports.)

Keep these necessities in a spot that’s high off the ground and close to a door or in the garage so they’re readily accessible when you need them.

magicmonkey via flickr
http://www.flickr.com/photos/magickevin/

Identification Safeguards

It is important to keep identification on your pets at all time, and your options go beyond an ID tag on the collar. Microchipping is a simple procedure performed by your vet that’s similar to receiving a shot. The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under your pet’s skin between the shoulders. You might also consider tying a small bell to your pet’s collar to make it easier to find Fluffy or Fido when time is of the essence. Additionally, placing a pet fire safety decal in the window of the room your pets favor will alert rescuers of their presence in an unfavorable situation. If you’d like a free fire rescue sticker for your pet, please just stop by the front desk and mention you read this week’s post!

For detailed information and additional tips for preparing your pet for a disaster, take a look at this video from Ready.gov:

Though it is difficult to imagine how we would handle an emergency situation, taking the time to create a smart and safe back-up plan will always pay off with the protection of your beloved pet.

What other preventative measures have you devised to ensure your pets’ safety?

Sources: http://dogs.about.com/od/toyssupplies/a/microchipping.htm

Catster.com http://blogs.catster.com/the-cats-meow-a-cat-and-kitten-blog/five-tips-that-will-save-your-cats-life-in-a-disaster/2011/04/02/

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

Shed that Winter Coat!

Now that spring has officially sprung, (though it might not seem like it!) it's time to invest in some spring cleaning…for your pet that is!

With spring, we get the good and the bad: more sunlight and blossoms come with allergy attacks, muddy shoes, and if you are the owner of a fuzzy friend, more hair everywhere.

The Shedding Situation

For many people who own dogs that have a double coat (which includes a top coat and an undercoat) like Newfoundlands, Samoyeds, and Shelties or have long haired cats like Himalayans and Persians, excess hair floating around your house is as natural as dust mites. While this is not harmful, hair trapped in the coat is unsightly and uncomfortable for your pet. For cats, it can also cause an increase in hairballs.

For some dog owners, shedding appears to be a year-round occurrence. In fact, it probably is, according to TrainPetDog.com. Since most of our pets spend their time indoors in heated houses during the winter and then go outside into the cold for walks, it fools your dog’s body into thinking the seasons are changing.

Dogs without two coats, like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Tibetan Terriers, must still take extra care to brush their dog’s coats regularly. Since these breeds don’t lose hair as naturally, their hair tends to get matted if not brushed properly and frequently.

How to Cope with Shedding

As your dog’s winter hair shakes loose to make room for a new spring coat it is important to brush, brush, brush! The appropriate shedding tools will help remove loose hair from the undercoat and a slicker brush will knock hair from the top coat. Catching the fuzz between the bristles of a brush will prevent them from finding their way to your floor, your furniture or your clothing.

If you have trouble keeping up the rigorous brushing routine on top of all your other spring cleaning, simply bring your dog and all that fuzz to Morris Animal Inn. Our groomers will happily take on the challenge! Our effective shedding tools combined with regular grooming appointments will do wonders to help our fuzz-emitting friends, both canine and feline. If you feel your pet needs extra help in this area, we offer the Shed-Less procedure, performed right in our state-of-the art spa. This process is a multi-step procedure that utilizes a shampoo and conditioner, a pre and post bath blowout, special shedding tools, and a finishing spray, all of which are designed to eliminate excess hair but without hindering the natural shedding process.  The process is best if scheduled once every six weeks.

Honor your pets and your home this spring by keeping their shedding to a minimum…your couch will thank you!

Sources: TrainPetDog.com

                Dog Breed Info Center

Tricks for Treating Thunder Phobia

As March rolls in like a lion, with it comes the ensuing rain, grey overcast days, and the occasional claps of thunder that send Fido and Fluffy running with tails between their legs. Since we can’t avoid stormy weather, we’ve collected some tricks to help you treat the thunder phobia plaguing your furry friends so that you and Fido can weather it fearlessly together the next time March’s lion begins to roar.

Thunder=Treats

When it beings to rain and thunder booms overhead, give your pet one of their favorite treats. It must be a truly delectable treat that will entice them even in the midst of the loud noise. This might be the time you pull out strips of turkey or chicken. Whenever you hear a loud thunder clap, feed your dog or cat a delicious treat. Alas, they will begin to associate thunder with food which will transform the storm from a negative experience to a positive one. This concept mimics clicker training in which a noise or click precedes a reward.

Safe House

If “thunder treats” don’t quite get your fuzzy pals salivating, try creating a safe house for your dog or cat to cuddle up in and hopefully rest or sleep. This can simply be their crate or a private nook in your house that your pet likes to relax in. Make sure it is comfortable, padded with soft blankets, and keep their favorite toys nearby as an added comfort.

Music Therapy

A stellar conglomeration of research between Joshua Leeds, psychoacoustic expert, and Susan Wagner, veterinary neurologist, culminated in the body of work, Through a Dog’s Ear, a book outlining their scientific research and a collection of CDs designed to calm and soothe your dog in any anxiety-inducing situation. Their work studies the effects of the environment and its soundscape on our canine companions and develops simple solutions that highlight the importance of classical music. 

DAP

Dog Appeasing Pheromone Therapy utilizes a replication of a pheromone produced in the mammary glands of a lactating female dog. The pheromone is supposed to promote a calm sense of security in dogs. It is extremely simple. Just buy it in diffuser form and plug it in to an outlet!

Medication

If all else fails and your pet continues to exhibit signs of stress from the sound of thunder, consider talking with your vet about medication that might include anti-anxiety or anti-depressant meds to ease them in these times.

Don’t let stormy weather get the best of you and your pets! Use these techniques to help them have sweet dreams!

Cold Weather Grooming

We sometimes find clients fall behind on their grooming regimen the winter months. Many times people think grooming is not necessary because their pet may not be as active...but here are just a few reasons to keep it up:

1) Long coats require extra care. Just because your pet has a built-in sweater doesn't mean you shouldn't watch for matting or tangles during winter months. If you let his or her coat grow out in the winter, you're probably not in the habit of brushing it several times a week to keep it in tip-top shape. To avoid a complete shave-down in the spring, continue regular brushing and/or bring your pet to us every few weeks from November-March. Your pet (cats, too!) will be much more comfortable and less prone to sores and infections.

2) Short coats continue to shed. Colder air makes your pet's skin drier, making short-coated pets' fur tend to shed even more in the winter months. To avoid the furry furniture collection, you should plan to brush a short-haired animal's coat five to six times a week. You might also consider our Shed-Less Treatments. This will also keep your pet's coat shiny, clean and healthy, not to mention giving your pet some precious one-on-one time.

3) Skin gets itchy. As previously mentioned, cold air means dry skin, and dry skin means scratching. Excessive scratching can translate into a dull coat and unsightly lesions. To combat this, consider using a moisturizing shampoo (we use Oxy-Med Medicated Conditioner in our grooming salon), and adding a tablespoon full of flax, olive or canola oil to your dog's meal or about a half tablespoon for a cat.

4) Baths are still needed! If you prefer to bathe your pet at home, continue to do so, but make sure NOT to let him or her go outside in the cold while wet. This will just magnify the itching, matting and shedding. Instead, make sure to blow your pet's coat completely dry on a cool or low setting, and keep the dryer at least six inches from his or her skin to avoid burning.

5) Clothing helps protect skin and fur from the elements. Pet sweaters, coats and booties aren't just for making a statement. They can really help protect your outdoor pet from fur-tangling wind, matting ice and frostbitten toes.

If you need help or simply don't have the time to groom your pet as he or she requires, please give us a call and we will gladly take on the responsibility. Happy almost winter!