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Do Dogs Experience Anxiety?

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The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa‘s “Rover Reporter” went on a mission to answer the question: Do Dogs Experience Anxiety?

A simple Google search led to the answer that yes, dogs and other pets do experience anxiety, and they show it in ways we may or may not recognize.

Ways Dogs Show Anxiety

According to an article by the American Kennel Club, dogs experience anxiety in several ways. If your dog is showing signs of the following, it may be experiencing anxiety:

  • Excessive panting, drooling, licking, barking, whining, or howling
  • Urinating or defecating in the house (unrelated to potty training or incontinence)
  • Aggressive behaviors
  • Destroying property
  • Digging
  • Pacing about
  • Appearing depressed
  • Demonstrating repetitive or compulsive behaviors
  • Restlessness

Why Do Dogs Get Anxiety?

Much like humans, dog experience anxiety under certain conditions or circumstances. Some anxiety behaviors can be recurring, and others can be constant.

Dogs are very adept at “reading” or understanding situations and people. If your dog senses that you are stressed, it can react to your feelings.

If a dog is in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation, such as going to the vet, traveling, or moving, it can also exhibit anxiety.

Sometimes sounds, noises, unfamiliar surroundings, objects, surfaces, other animals, or strangers can cause a dog to feel anxious.

Likewise, dogs who are separated from their owners, even for a brief period of time, can experience anxiety.

Anxiety is also common in older dogs whose cognitive functions are starting to decline.

How to Help an Anxious Dog

Every dog reacts differently to anxiety, and it’s important to monitor your dog’s reactions and health to determine if your dog has anxiety and if you need to seek treatment for anxiety.

The first action you might take is to visit your vet. Describe your dog’s behaviors and under what conditions your dog appears anxious.

Medical treatments, behavior training, socialization, crate training, exercising your dog, providing a nourishing diet, and removing your dog from stressful situations are just some of the ways you can ease the anxiety your dog is experiencing.

Anxiety Can be Normal in Dogs

If your dog is experiencing anxiety, it can be a perfectly normal and acceptable behavior.

This “Rover Reporter” noticed increasing anxiety in her older dog a few years ago. Separation anxiety, howling, restlessness, and excessive panting (when all weather extremes were normal) were the first signs that something was not quite right with my beloved pooch.

Medication didn’t seem to work on him, so we adapted to working from home, assuring him each time we left “we would be right back,” cuddling him, allowing him to sleep with us, changing his diet, and allowing him to be where we were.

He has since mellowed, except when we have company, at which point he wants to be where the action is, or he will cry and howl if separated.

Most importantly, we have come to accept our pooch has changing needs, not much different than ours, and with patience, education, understanding, and love, he has settled down a bit, and that makes us all less anxious.

July Bowser Report Reveals that Dogs Make Neighborhoods Safer

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Dogs in the neighborhood make people feel safer

A new study by Ohio State University finds that dogs deter crime and make neighborhoods safer, especially when neighbors trust each other.

Let’s consider the noise any dog makes when it barks, and why it barks. Dogs bark to alert us of danger, an intruder, a moth, bird, UPS carrier, squirrel…you get the picture. The commotion a dog makes for any reason deters criminals from committing crimes and makes neighborhoods safer.

So, the next time you get upset about your neighbor’s dog barking, remember, he is scouting the neighborhood for mischief so you can sleep peacefully!

Dog Walkers Promote Trust in the Community

Listen, we dogs know that people who walk dogs are often some of the friendliest people in the neighborhood. When neighbors take time to get to know dogs and their owners, a bigger trust develops.

These dogs walkers become the eyes and ears of the community and are sometimes the first to be alerted to something “not quite right.” The suspicious car that circles the neighborhood; the new crowd of people walking the street; and the misplaced truck that only stops at homes with packages become very noticeable to the dog walkers who are very aware of the normal happenings in their neighborhood.

When something in the neighborhood is unusual, credit for noticing can often be given to the local dog walkers and their dogs!

Neighbors tend to trust the eyes and ears of the dependable dog walkers who get to know not only the neighbors, but their cars, their comings and goings, and their property.

Here’s a shout out to the dogs who insist on being walked and taking their neighborhood dog watch duty seriously!

Dogs Bring Health Benefits to Humans

It’s long been argued that a dog can “improve mental well-being, decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems, increase physical activity and even make you more attractive to others” (source).

Anyone who has ever owned a dog or two or three might also add that owning a dog increases the owner’s overall happiness and decreases stress or anxiety. The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa also reports that sleeping with your beloved canine causes a deeper, more restful sleep.

Now we dogs at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa can celebrate what we already knew: owning a dog is awesome!

Consider Adding a Canine to Your Crew

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is committed to the health, safety, and well-being of your dog. If you are considering adding a dog to your family, we offer dog boarding, doggie daycare, dog grooming, and dog training.

The shelters are full of dogs and puppies who need furrever homes. Please considering adopting a dog from your local shelter and saving the life of the dog, yours, and your neighbors.

Summer Tips to Keep Your Pets Happy, Healthy, and Safe

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The happiness, health, and safety of your pets is a priority at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

Anyone who has been to our facility for grooming, doggie daycare, or pet boarding understands how much we love your pets as well as our own.

As the summer approaches, we thought it would be a doggone good idea to provide you with Summer Tips to Keep Your Pets Happy, Healthy, and Safe.

Never Leave Your Pet Unattended in a Car

No matter how quick you think your errand is going to be and how much you and your pet love going for drives in the car, never leave your pet unattended in a car.

The temperature outside is no indication of the temperature that quickly rises in a car. The temperature inside of a car can quickly rise to 120 degrees even if windows are cracked.

While we know how much fun it is for both our pets and us to spend time together, when it’s hot outside, please leave your pets at home!

Time Your Walks for Cooler Weather

Take walks in the early am or evening when it is cooler. Dog paw pads are sensitive to hot asphalt and can burn.

Also, dogs who exercise in the hot sun can suffer from heat stroke, which can be debilitating and deadly.

Older dogs, those that are overweight, and breeds with flat noses are particularly susceptible to heat stroke. Dogs with heart and lung issues should be monitored carefully.

Possible signs of heat stroke in dogs include:

  • Excessive panting
  • Drooling
  • Abnormal breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Collapsing or weakness on feet
  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Seizure
  • Bright red gums

If your dog is acting abnormally, especially in the heat, please contact your veterinarian or closest emergency hospital immediately.

Keeping Your Pet Safe in Hot Weather

With temperatures outside rising during the summer, it’s imperative that your pet has adequate conditions to keep them cool.

Basic necessities such as shade, cool water, escape from the elements, and air conditioning will keep your pets safe, happy, comfortable, and thriving.

If you need to leave your dog outside for any length of time in hot weather, give it fresh, cold water, and a way to escape from the sun.

Add fans or turn on the air conditioner when inside the home.

Long-haired animals are especially susceptible to heat even in the 70’s, so it’s very important to take precautions to keep their temperature down.

Dogs pant to cool themselves, as they are unable to perspire as humans do.

So, consider what your needs are to make yourself comfortable and offer the same to your pet, especially as the Tri-Valley is set to experience a heat wave.

Be Careful Around Swimming Pools       

If you have a water dog, you will probably not be able to keep him out of the water. But some dogs can’t swim or tire easily and can actually drown.

Make sure your pet is supervised during any water activity.

Have a Safe and Happy Summer

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wants to wish you and your family a safe, happy, and healthy summer.

We hope our summer tips will provide you the best protection to keep your pets around for a long time.

Doggone Fun for Dad in Livermore on Father’s Day

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Hey, Guys! Father’s Day is coming up, and we know just what Dad wants for his special day! We’ve compiled some doggone Fun for Dad in Livermore on Father’s Day!

What your Dog Dad Really wants on Father’s Day

It’s awfully tempting to wake Dad up on Father’s Day with our usual routine: licking his face until he gets out of bed; doing zoomies or running circles until he gets our leash to go for a walk; pawing his face or jumping on him until he puts down the paper and cup of coffee to feed us; placing our soggy ball or favorite toy on his lap until he gets up to play fetch; staring at him with our adorable eyes and wagging our tail until he pets our bellies; or making Chewbacca-like noises until he opens up the treat cabinet.

But this Father’s Day, let’s give Dad what he really wants! After all, this day is about celebrating what a great Dad he is! So chill out on getting dad up early; let him sleep in; get the kids to take care of us for the day; and spend the day curled up next to him dreaming of how great of a Dad he is!

Livermore Events for Father’s Day

We live in such a beautiful area, why not treat Dad to some Livermore events for Father’s Day? Here are a few doggone great suggestions:

Father’s Day Picnic and Live Music with Luna Fish at Retzlaff Vineyards

“The annual Fathers Day Picnic at Retzlaff returns Sunday, June 19th! Enjoy an afternoon with Dad, family, and friends (and wine) listening and dancing to the super fun Luna Fish band!

Admission is ONLY with a pre-reserved picnic table for seating up to six adults and kids.
Grounds open at 11:30 am and close at 4:00 pm.”

Purchase your tickets here.

Father’s Day at McGrail Vineyards and Winery

“Join us on Father’s Day for an afternoon full of time with loved ones, award winning McGrail wines, food from Dat Q BBQ, gelato from Aldo’s Gelato, and live music from Plan B! We will have a photo booth for guests to enjoy! Reservations are recommended, but walk-ups are welcome. Please bring lawn chairs and blankets to make yourselves comfortable.”

The event takes place on June 19 from 12:30-4:00 pm.

Heavy 4/70’s at R Place Music Club, Livermore

“HEAVY 4/70’s band members are veteran musicians with many years of recording and touring. The band has its own unique take on some of the most influential Hard Rock bands of all time.

A 4 band salute tribute to Aerosmith, UFO, Montrose and Thin Lizzy is the engine that fuels the bands energy which completely dominate their explosive live shows.

Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, the band consist of Derek Davis/Vocals – Danny De La Rosa/Guitar members of “Babylon A.D.” – Mike Holsworth/Bass “Jack Wagon – Marty Schuchardt/Drums “Greg Kihn.”

Saturday, June 18 starting at 9 am to Sunday morning at 1:00 am. This is a FREE event!

Happy Father’s Day from The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

All of us at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa would like to wish a Happy Father’s Day to dads everywhere!

Word has it among the pups that we have some pretty pawsome Ranch Resort Dads who will hopefully take the day to be spoiled by their hooman pups.

Fun Dog Events for Dog Loving People this Summer 😎

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Summer is here! We can feel it in the air and in the cold crisp water we get to play in at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa! The summer weather makes us want to run, jump, splash, shake, and roll around with our friends!

In cruising the dog park, word has it there are a number of Fun Dog Events for Dog Loving People this Summer.

Support East Bay Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation

Look guys, we are very luck to have loving families and a great life full of adventure and fun at The Ranch. But some of our canine pals and feline friends aren’t yet into loving homes.

Here is a chance to give back to support those in need of homes or rehabilitation. Starry Nite Studios, Brentwood’s only family-friendly paint party studio, is offering a fun event that supports East Bay Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation.

The event takes place on May 28 from 12-3:30 pm. Professional artists will sketch a picture of you and your hooman will paint you while having fun with drinks at the bar! The event is a worthy one and costs $100.

Have your hooman sign up here!

Live Music with Tom Jackman at Big Dog Vineyards

What better way than to shoot the summer breeze than with Live Music by Tom Jackman at Big Dog Vineyards in Sunol. Enjoy R&B, pop, rock and country tunes while sipping small-batch, handmade wines. The event takes place on Sunday, May 29 from 1-4 pm.

Don’t worry if your hoomans can’t make it on the 29, Big Dog Vineyards hosts live music every weekend! Check out their story and more including their list of performers on their website.

Quiet on the Set, Please! Animal Actors Take One!

Have you ever wanted to act like the dogs and cats we see on TV? Now is your chance to learn how to act!

On Saturday, June 18 at 9:00 am, Star K9s Agility Stars will take center stage in Walnut Creek to teach you how to act. The best part is NO EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED!

This one day event is tailored to beginners but also perfect for those with some on screen experience. Here is what to expect:

• Learn the skills required to have your certified as “set-prepped” or “set trained”
• Learn to create a resume, log of cued behaviors, and book a job
• Learn to work an animal on set
• Basics of following a “look-stick” and going to a “mark”
• Getting your animal to emote
• Practice real-world scenarios that your animal may encounter on set, such as posing with a product, interacting with a human actor, wearing a costume, or walking across set.
• Jam-packed Gift Bag included!

Autographs will be taken after! Please check out this very fun animal acting event starring you!

Here’s the Scoop on Project Pet Portrait Starring You!

Project Pet is a fun event that stars you! Just have your hooman check out the event here. Your hooman will paint a picture of you at Livermore’s Pinot Palette on Sunday, June 26 from 11-2. Talented painters will walk your artist through the steps to make you look your very best.

With a selection of wine, beer, mixed drinks and food, your hooman friend will have a special afternoon painting with friends and come home with a 16×20 canvas portrait of you!

Support Livermore’s Pinot Palette with a puppy portrait and a ton of fun!

Summer Fun at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

If your parents need time away, have them call The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa! Our boarding and daycare is so much fun! We are a close staycation filled with fun, frolicking, climbing, loving day care staff, and friends! Reserve your stay today!

The Benefits of Sleeping with Your Human From Your Dog or Cat’s Point of View

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Studies suggest that sleeping with your pet has health benefits for you, but have you ever considered the benefits dogs and cats receive while sleeping with their humans?

As soft, comfy, fluffy, and adorable that pet bed is that you bought for your dog or cat, chances are, your pet would prefer to sleep with you!

Studies Show Dogs and Cats Benefit from Sleeping with Their Owners

Good pet owners are in tune with their pets’ needs of human comfort, interaction, love, and affection.

When it comes to bedtime, many pets would prefer to sleep with their humans and the reasons make sense to the pet lovers at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

According to Dr. Dana Varble, the chief veterinary officer for the North American Veterinary Community, “In general, it is a very good thing for animals to sleep with their people. Pets who share their human’s bed tend to have a higher trust level and a tighter bond with the humans that are in their lives. It’s a big display of trust on their part.” (source: CNN.com)

Medical Benefits for Dogs and Cats who Sleep with their Humans

Another reason for pets to sleep with their owners is medical. Oxytocin and dopamine, hormones that produce feel-good feelings in animals as well as people, are increased in pets who are closely bonded with their humans.

If your dog has anxiety or suffers from stress, a medical condition, or old age, it may be helpful for them to fall asleep next to someone they trust and love. The close physical contact relaxes the anxiety they feel and eases the stress they feel.

To Sleep or Not to Sleep with Your Dog or Cat?

The choice whether to sleep with your dog or cat is ultimately up to you…or is it? As many times as dog or cat owners try to sleep with their dog or cat next to them in beds or cat trees, boxes, crates, comfy pillows, blankets with fish on them…well, you get the idea…it’s sometimes a failed effort.

Many dogs and cats naturally crawl on the bed or, in some cases, under the covers, to sleep with their owners.

The temptation to sneak onto the bed while humans sleep is more than many of our dogs and cats can resist. After all, the crook of a knee, the soft neck of our best human, or even the face of our best cat-loving person is just too much for our pups and kittens to pass up.

If Your Dog or Cat Sleeps with You, Consider Yourself Loved

As many of our dog or cat loving clients realize, their best furry friends do not want to be without their loved ones, especially at night.

So, if you wake up to soft puppy breath, the snoring of an aging four-legged canine, or the soft paw or even claw of a finicky feline, consider yourself blessed.

You have been among the numerous pets who have chosen their person to drift off to slumber with. May sweet dreams of fish swimming up stream, balls in the open field, and the sound of crashing beach waves fill your mind, heart, and soul during the night.

Choose The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa to Ease Your Pet While You Travel

The staff at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa has a special place in our heart for your dog or cat when you travel.

We take extra measures to make sure your pets fall asleep feeling loved and cared for when you are not there to tuck them into bed.

Our popular story time is a hit among the guests who board with us. Dogs who are read to drift asleep in the lap of our staff and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to begin the day. We even talk in different voices, show pictures, and read the story over and over!

If you are interested in having The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa bring story time to your pet during their stay with us, please let us know! It is our wish to make sure your pet is loved during its stay with us!

Sweet dreams to all!

Make your reservations here!