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Why Upgrade to Stay & Train at Ranch Pet Resort & Spa?

March 4, 2026 by Michelle Bedard

When you search for dog boarding near me, you want more than a kennel. You want safety, enrichment, and professional care.

At Ranch Pet Resort & Spa, we offer something even more valuable: a Stay & Train upgrade that transforms your dog’s boarding stay into a structured learning experience with professional dog training included.

Instead of simply staying the night, your dog returns home better trained, more focused, and more confident.

What Is Stay & Train?

Our Stay & Train program is a premium board and train experience designed for dogs who are already boarding with us.

During their stay, your dog receives:

Overnight accommodations in our luxury pet resort
Two personalized training sessions with a professional trainer
Two engaging enrichment activities
An exit bath so they go home fresh and polished
A hands-on exit session with you
A private follow-up training session
Ongoing phone support

This is not just dog boarding. This is professional dog training woven into a safe, structured environment.

Why Stay and Train Works

Dogs learn best through consistency.

When training happens during boarding, we’re able to reinforce behaviors throughout the day — not just in a single weekly session. That immersive structure helps dogs retain skills faster and respond more reliably.

Whether your dog needs:

Better leash manners
Stronger recall
Improved impulse control
Reduced jumping
More focus and obedience

Stay & Train allows us to work on those goals in a real-world setting.

A Smarter Upgrade Than Standard Boarding

Standard boarding provides comfort and optional activities. Dogs enjoy social time and fun enrichment.

Stay & Train builds on that foundation.

Instead of returning home simply tired, your dog returns home improved — with clear communication skills and reinforced behaviors.

And the difference doesn’t stop when you pick them up.

The Owner Transition Matters

One of the most important parts of professional dog training is teaching the owner.

That’s why every Stay & Train program includes a personalized exit session where you’ll:

See what your dog has learned
Practice handling techniques
Learn how to maintain consistency at home

Plus, you’ll receive a private follow-up session and continued phone support.

Because long-term success depends on partnership.

Who Should Upgrade to Stay & Train?

Stay & Train is ideal for:

Puppies building obedience foundations
Dogs who pull, jump, or struggle with manners
Busy families who want structured training support
Owners preparing for guests, travel, or life transitions
Anyone looking for professional dog training during boarding

If your dog is already staying with us, this is the most efficient way to combine care, enrichment, and education.

Upgrade Your Dog’s Stay at Ranch Pet Resort & Spa

Boarding keeps your dog safe.

Stay & Train moves them forward.

If your dog has an upcoming reservation, contact Ranch Pet Resort & Spa to upgrade to Stay & Train. Our team will walk you through availability and next steps.

Spots are limited to ensure personalized training time.

📞 Call us today
📩 Send us a message
🌐 Visit our website to request your upgrade

Give your dog a stay that builds confidence, strengthens behavior, and supports your home life long after pickup day.

When “Something Feels Off”: Why Paying Attention to Your Pet Matters

February 24, 2026 by Michelle Bedard

Last night, I experienced something that every pet owner fears.

My older cats was sitting on my lap when his body began to twitch. One of his legs went limp. He collapsed against me. His heart was racing. His pupils were wide and dark. Then he just stared — almost through me.

I held him and stayed still until he slowly returned to himself.

If you’ve never witnessed a seizure in a cat, it is terrifying. And if you have, you know how helpless it feels.

What a Seizure in a Cat Can Look Like

Seizures in cats don’t always look dramatic. They can include:

Sudden twitching or jerking
Limp or rigid limbs
Collapse
Dilated pupils
Rapid heartbeat
Staring or seeming “absent”
Confusion afterward

Some seizures last seconds. Some last longer. Many cats appear disoriented after but then return to normal.

That return to “normal” can make owners question what just happened.

Why Would a Cat Have a Seizure?

Seizures are not a disease — they are a symptom. Something is triggering abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Common causes can include:

Low blood sugar
Liver or kidney disease
Toxin exposure (household cleaners, plants, flea medications)
Head trauma
Brain inflammation
Epilepsy
Severe stress
Malnutrition or weight loss
Metabolic imbalances
Underlying infection

In my case, weight loss, vomiting, and stress were already signals that something wasn’t right. The seizure wasn’t random — it may have been the escalation of something ongoing.

When a Cat Is Thin and Vomiting

If a cat is losing weight and vomiting regularly, veterinarians often investigate:

Hyperthyroidism
Gastrointestinal disease
Food intolerance
Pancreatitis
Intestinal parasites
Chronic kidney disease
Stress-related digestive issues

Weight loss combined with seizures can point to metabolic or systemic causes that require lab work.

Stress Is Not “Just Stress”

Chronic stress in cats is serious.

If a dog is chasing, stalking, or intimidating a cat, even playfully, it can elevate stress hormones long-term. Chronic stress can affect appetite, immune function, digestion, and neurological stability.

Cats are highly sensitive to their environment. What looks manageable to us may feel threatening to them. In my case, Turkey had just moved twice in six months, had company, had to share his living quarters with a dog, and taken a long car ride from one state to the next.

While he has always been on the thin side, his bonier than usual appearance had me concerned. The seizure was the tipping point.

What To Do If Your Cat Has a Seizure

Stay calm.
Do not put your hands near their mouth.
Remove nearby objects so they don’t injure themselves.
Time the seizure.
Keep the room quiet and dim.
Call your veterinarian.

If a seizure lasts more than 2–3 minutes, or if multiple seizures occur close together, it is considered an emergency.

Even if your cat seems fine afterward, a veterinary exam and bloodwork are essential. Luckily, I was holding Turkey at the time and able to feel his heartbeat, watch his eyes, and measure how long he needed to recover, which will help our vet determine the root of the seizure.

Steps to Help Prevent Future Seizures

Prevention depends on identifying the cause. That usually involves:

Full physical exam
Blood panel
Thyroid testing
Kidney and liver evaluation
Blood glucose check
Possibly imaging (if needed)

At home, you can:

Reduce environmental stress (separate dog and cat spaces)
Provide vertical safe zones
Monitor eating and vomiting patterns
Weigh your cat weekly
Eliminate potential toxins
Feed consistent, high-quality nutrition
Keep a log of any unusual behavior

If seizures recur, veterinarians may prescribe anti-seizure medication depending on frequency and severity.

The Most Important Lesson

Subtle changes matter.

Weight loss. Vomiting. Hiding. Behavioral shifts. Stress. These are not “quirks.” They are data.

Your pet cannot tell you something feels wrong. You have to notice.

Last night scared me. But it also reminded me how important it is to trust your instincts and act early.

If your cat is acting oddly, thinner than usual, stressed, or vomiting frequently — don’t wait for something dramatic.

Pay attention.
Document it.
Call your vet.

Because sometimes what looks small… isn’t.

Springtime Plants to Watch Out for: Toxic Greenery and Pet Safety

January 31, 2026 by Michelle Bedard

Spring is a season of fresh air, blooming flowers, and new growth—one that invites us and our pets outdoors more often. As gardens come back to life and homes fill with greenery, it’s also an important time for pet parents to be aware of plants that can be harmful to dogs and cats. Curious noses and playful chewing are common in spring, making plant safety especially important this time of year.

One of the most dangerous spring plants for pets is lilies. Often used in floral arrangements and Easter décor, many lily varieties are extremely toxic to cats. Even small exposure—such as licking pollen from their fur or drinking water from a vase—can lead to serious kidney failure. Cat households should avoid lilies altogether.

Another common spring landscaping plant to watch for is the sago palm. Popular in warmer climates, this plant is highly toxic to dogs. The seeds are particularly dangerous and can cause vomiting, liver failure, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Spring houseplant refreshes can also introduce risk. Plants like pothos, philodendron, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), and snake plants are frequently added to homes this season. If chewed, they can cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and digestive upset. While reactions are often mild, they’re still uncomfortable for pets.

Outdoor gardens bloom with beauty in spring—but not all flowers are pet-safe. Oleander, azaleas, rhododendrons, and foxglove are highly toxic and can affect the heart and nervous system. Even a small nibble can lead to serious symptoms.

Spring yard care brings another hidden risk: fertilizers, pesticides, and mulch. Cocoa mulch, in particular, smells appealing to dogs but contains compounds similar to chocolate and can be toxic if ingested.

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately. Acting quickly can make all the difference.

Spring Plants That Are Safer for Pets

The good news is that not all spring plants are off-limits for pet households. Many popular flowers and greenery can be enjoyed safely with a little planning. Pet-safe spring blooms include snapdragons, petunias, pansies, marigolds, sunflowers, and zinnias. These plants add seasonal color to gardens and patios without posing a risk if curious pets get a little too close.

For greenery, plants like Boston ferns, areca palms, spider plants, and prayer plants are generally considered safe for both dogs and cats. These are great options for refreshing your home during spring without worrying about accidental nibbling.

Are Spring Bulbs Safe for Pets?

When it comes to bulbs, extra caution is needed. Many spring bulbs are toxic, especially if dug up and chewed. Bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, and irises can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and in some cases more serious symptoms. The bulb itself is the most toxic part of the plant, and dogs are particularly at risk because they love to dig.

If you enjoy bulb plants, consider planting them in areas your pets can’t access, using raised planters, or choosing alternatives grown from seed instead of bulbs. Supervision during spring yard time is also important, especially for puppies and curious diggers.

A Simple Spring Safety Tip

Even with pet-safe plants, it’s best to discourage chewing whenever possible. Keep an eye on new plantings, rinse off fertilizers or treatments, and provide plenty of toys and enrichment so plants don’t become a temptation.

With thoughtful plant choices and a little awareness, spring can be a beautiful—and safe—season for pets to explore and enjoy.

At The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we’re especially mindful during springtime, ensuring our grounds remain safe as pets enjoy the season. With a little awareness, spring can be a joyful, worry-free time for both you and your furry companions.

Dogs Choose Their Person Based on Bonds They Build

January 13, 2026 by Michelle Bedard

woman and dog at beach overlooking ocean

Being immeshed in dog boarding, grooming, daycare, and training at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we often see how much bonding occurs between a person and her dog. Even when a dog is part of a loving family, the dog attaches to one person over another.

Dogs recognize when their chosen”hooman” is at The Ranch to pick him up as evidenced by the tail wagging, whole body shakes, and vocal shrieks of pure delight and relief.

Those of us in rescue also know that when a dog is surrendered, he will often keep looking for his person or ones that look like his person as bonds last a lifetime.

So what is it that makes dogs bond to a certain person? Why does a dog choose one family member over another?

We set out to do some research, and this is what we found.

Dogs Bond Over Trust, Comfort, and Experiences

At The Ranch Pet Resort & Spa, we see bond connections all the time. While dogs are loving by nature and can form strong relationships with many people, they often have one person who feels like “home.”

One of the biggest influences is early experiences. Dogs tend to bond deeply with the people who were there for them during puppyhood—especially during those first few months when they are learning what safety and care feel like. Those early impressions can last a lifetime.

Another important factor is positive experiences. Dogs naturally gravitate toward the people who bring good things into their world—treats, playtime, affection, and encouragement. Over time, those positive moments add up and create a powerful emotional connection.

Consistency matters, too. Dogs feel safest with people they can rely on. The person who feeds them, walks them, keeps their routine steady, and shows up every day often becomes their trusted favorite. Predictability helps dogs relax and feel secure.

Personality plays a role as well. Some dogs are drawn to calm, gentle energy, while others love someone who is playful and outgoing. Dogs are incredibly tuned in to body language and tone of voice, and they tend to prefer people who make them feel understood and at ease.

And yes—sometimes it really is about scent. A dog may simply find comfort in the natural smell of a certain person, which helps them feel safe and connected.

How to Strengthen the Bond with Your Dog

Adorable Beagle dog puppy sleeping on young female owner's shoulder. Attractive woman spend leisure time and petting on her pet animal that lying down with gentle and happiness in living room at home.

If you want to strengthen your bond with a dog, focus on the little things. Spend quality time together. Take walks, play games, offer gentle affection, and stay patient and calm—especially with dogs who are nervous or adjusting to new environments. Trust grows through shared moments, consistent care, and time.

If you have recently adopted a dog, make sure you follow the 3:3:3 rule. Dogs need time to decompress, adjust, and feel safe enough to show their true personalities.

Dog Bonds are Not Accidental

A dog choosing their person is not random or accidental. It is built through kindness, reliability, and genuine connection—and that is what makes the bond so special.

So if you happen to be the “chosen one”, consider yourself lucky. You have earned yourself a place in the life of your dog.

Contact The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa for Your Dog’s Social Welfare

If you want to be number one in your dog’s life, we welcome you to try out The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa. Whether you want to pamper your dog with a day frolicking with friends, boarding with storytime, grooming, or professional training, we are here to assist. you. Contact us today to learn more.

Santa Paws Pawty is a Huge Holiday Hit

December 24, 2025 by Michelle Bedard

Our Santa Paws Pawty event was a sold out success. Bigs and Littles come dressed in ugly sweaters, guessed how many treats were in the cookie jar, had pictures taken with Santa Claus, sang songs with Santa, and made a holiday craft!

Everyone from our staff, clients, and our beloved daycare dogs joined together to make our Santa Paws Pawty our biggest success yet!

Thanks to our dedicated staff who was definitely in the holiday spirit, The Ranch was a winter wonderland of festivity complete with a decked out lobby!

Santa Shared His Naughty and Nice List

Santa took time with each attendee to review the year and share whether or not the they made the naughty or nice list. With the exception of a few of the attendees who were given second chances to make the nice list, we are pleased to report that Santa deemed all dogs to have a special place on his Nice List!

And with faces such as these, even the Grinch would agree these sweethearts made the Nice list!

We Can’t Wait for Santa Paws Pawty 2026

As handlers, we come to work everyday with a love and passion for our clients’ dogs, and events such as our Santa Paws Pawty makes our jobs so much fun!

Thank you, everyone, for supporting the Santa Paws Pawty. We can’t wait to do it again next year!

How to Calm Anxiety in Pets

December 9, 2025 by Michelle Bedard

Just like people, pets can experience anxiety whether it’s from loud noises, changes in routine, traveling, being left alone, or even meeting new people or pets. Some pets show their stress through pacing, whining, barking, drooling, hiding, or destructive behaviors. The good news is, with a little patience and the right approach, you can help your furry friend feel more relaxed and secure.

At The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we’ve worked with pets of all personalities, and these are our favorite ways to help calm anxious pets and make them feel safe.

Create a Safe Space

Pets need a cozy spot to retreat when they’re overwhelmed. A quiet room, crate with a soft blanket, or designated nook gives them a sense of security. Bringing their favorite toys or bed into this area can make it even more comforting.

Stick to a Routine

Pets thrive on predictability. Feeding, walking, and playtime routines help decrease anxiety because your pet understands what comes next. When life gets busy, especially around holidays, try to keep things as familiar as possible.

Exercise and Play

Just like humans, pets can work off stress through movement. Regular exercise is one of the best natural ways to reduce anxiety. Whether it’s fetch, a brisk walk, or interactive toys, physical activity and mental stimulation help calm nerves and boost confidence.

Use Calming Tools

There are lots of calming aids available for pets, including:

Soft music or white noise
Slow-feeder toys
Thundershirts or calming wraps
Essential oil diffusers made for pets
Natural calming chews or treats

These can be especially helpful during storms, fireworks, travel, or big gatherings.

Stay Calm Yourself

Pets pick up on our emotions. If you act stressed, rushed, or worried, they’re more likely to mirror those feelings. A calm voice, gentle pets, and slow movements go a long way in reassuring anxious pets.

Don’t Forget Socialization

Some anxiety stems from not knowing how to interact with others. Dog daycare, supervised playgroups, or structured boarding can help build confidence. At The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we make socialization fun, safe, and positive for even shy pets.