The Ranch Pet Resort

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Pet Care

Taking Care of Doggie to Avoid Canine Influenza (the Flu)

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Flu season is quickly approaching for us humans, and it’s a gentle reminder that we need to take care of Doggie, too, to avoid canine influenza (the flu). Symptoms of the flu range from mild to severe, and we want to make sure your pup is feeling its peppy self as we approach the holiday season.

Try Not to Worry! The Flu is Treatable Under Veterinary Care

Luckily, the flu is treatable under a vet’s care and has a low mortality rate. But one sick dog is too many for us, so we at The Ranch want to make certain you are aware that dogs do get the flu and help you avoid it.

Canine Influenza is Not Seasonal

While Canine Influenza is not seasonal as the flu is for humans, there have been some recent reports of the canine flu in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.

We have not had any cases of the flu in northern California, and we’d like to keep our Ranch pups safe and healthy through education and precautionary measures.

Consult Your Vet for all Your Dog’s Medical Needs

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa always suggests that you consult your veterinarian for any medical needs or issues your dog faces, including Canine Influenza.

A helpful way to keep your pup safe is to ask your vet about the canine influenza vaccine.

Due to the surge in cases in Los Angeles, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa will be requiring all doggie daycare and all dog boarders to be vaccinated with the Canine Influenza shot by November 22, 2021.

Please contact us to update your dog’s shot records so we can continue to have some rip-roarin’ fun!

What are the Symptoms of Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)

While symptoms and seriousness of canine influenza differ among dogs, just as they do with humans, you should be concerned if your dog has any of the following symptoms:

  • Lethargy
  • Runny nose
  • Discharge from the eyes
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Fever
  • Difficulty breathing

You know your pet the best, so if you notice your pet acting differently, not being his or her usual bubbly, cuddly self, it’s in your pup’s best interest to talk to your vet.

How Do Dogs Get the Flu?

Dogs get the flu from contact with sick dogs, contaminated environments or objects, or people who have handled infected dogs. The illness is airborne, spread through coughing, sneezing, or barking. A dog diagnosed with the flu should be taken to the vet, quarantined and given more love, attention, and snuggles as possible. Just as the Dr. ordered.

If you would like to learn more about the Dog Flu, here is a helpful article from the American Kennel Club.

Keeping Your Pups Safe

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa takes the health, safety, and well-being of our pups seriously. We are very proud of the safety measures we put into place, as we consider your dogs an integral part of our family.

It’s important that we keep you informed so we can continue to provide the fun, laughter, love, affection, and attention that your doggies deserve.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need anything!

Planning for Your Pets in the Event You Can No Longer Care for Your Them

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Our pets are family, and while we all want a lifelong relationship with our fur babies, sometimes circumstances arise that we don’t foresee. It’s important to remember that in the event we are unable to take care of our dogs, cats or other critters at home we love, we have a backup plan.

Prepare for All Circumstances With Back Up Caretakers

No one wants to think about not being our animals’ primary caretakers, but in the event we are incapacitated or unable to care for our animals, it’s important to have back up caretakers.

Choose a member of your family, friend, neighbor, or coworker who you would like to take over your pet’s care in the event you cannot.

Make sure the person you choose is willing to give your pet the lifelong care, love, attention, and medical treatments it needs to live a long, healthy and fulfilling life.

Keep certain considerations in mind when choosing the right caretaker.

Considerations When Choosing a Caretaker For Your Pet

Be precise and meticulous about whom you choose to take care of your pet. Here are some tips to help you make the right match between you and your pet.

  1. Make sure the caretaker is willing to adopt your pet and care for it on a permanent basis. Sometimes people may agree at the moment, not thinking through all the requirements to properly care for your pet for the longterm. Or perhaps circumstances change, making the caretaker unable or unwilling to care for your pet. It’s good to have back up caretakers.
  2. Have the caretaker become friends with your pet and see it on a frequent basis to alleviate the pet/pets’ anxiety, confusion, concern during the transition.
  3. If possible, set money aside for the care of your pet/pets. Medical care, food, toys, and lodging are expensive, and setting aside money to care for your pets will alleviate the burden of caring for your pets.
  4. Keep diligent vet records and store them in a place your caretake can access them. Include any allergies the pet may have.
  5. It’s better to be safe than sorry. No one wants to come to terms with not being able to care for a pet; but for the pet and your well-being, make time to pick a caretaker.
  6. If the caretaker has pets, make sure your pet gets along with the caretaker’s pet. As great as animals are, some animals just don’t fit in with certain other pets.
  7. Try to keep the pet’s routine in place to ease the anxiety the pet will experience. If the pet sleeps in a crate at night, try to keep that same routine.
  8. Allow the pet to grieve along with the caretaker. Pets are very perceptive and pick up on changes just like humans do.
  9. Make sure your caretaker’s values in terms of your pet are similar to yours. In the event of a medical issue, would your caretaker be on board with the decisions you’d make for your own pet?
  10. Educate the caretaker that change takes time; the behavior of the pet may change over time, but if given the opportunity to grow and thrive and feel love again, your pet can make a great addition to the caretaker’s family.

Managing My Dog’s Shedding

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Funny portrait of cute puppy dog border collie with fur in moulting lying down on couch. Furry little dog and wool in annual spring or autumn molt at home indoor. Pet hygiene allergy grooming concept

At The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we see all types of dogs-those with short fur, some with hair, others with longer fur. Shedding is a common problem, even a nuisance, for some dog owners.

We often get asked how dog owners can manage their dog’s shedding.

What Causes Shedding and Can I Avoid it?

Shedding is a result of the loss of old fur or hair that is no longer needed. At certain times of the year, dogs shed their coats to regulate their body temperatures. Some dogs also tend to shed when they are anxious or under stressful situations.

Many breeds shed naturally, and it’s nothing to worry about, nor is it something pet owners can avoid. Some dogs such as Siberian huskies, Labrador retrievers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Akitas shed more than others due to their fur coats.

Some dogs such as Poodles, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Bichon Frise, and Yorkshire Terriers have hair, not fur. These dogs are considered hypoallergenic and shed less than other breeds.

Helpful Advice to Manage Your Dog’s Shedding

No one likes the tumbleweed of furballs that harbor under couches or chairs. Even less of us like to come to work or go out with fur stuck to our clothes.

If you have a dog that sheds, you might find these tips helpful:

  • Use a shedding tool to brush your dog’s coat. This tool can help remove undercoat fur before it starts shedding.
  • Choose a brush created for your pet’s fur and make it a regular grooming habit. Whether it’s a wire brush or rubber comb, it’s important to choose the right grooming instrument. Most dogs find the brushing pleasant, much like a massage for a person. Plus, it builds trust and bonding with your dog.
  • Choose a healthy diet. Some dogs are allergic to certain products in foods. Ask your veterinarian or your local pet store for help selecting the right type of food for your dog to avoid allergies that might add to shedding.
  • Keep fresh water available at all times. Dogs who are dehydrated are more prone to shedding.
  • Make bathing your pet a regular activity. Not only will your dog smell better, but bathing will also help decrease the shedding before the fur falls out. Try a de-shedding shampoo for even better results.

When Should I be Worried About Excessive Shedding?

If you are worried about excessive shedding, it may be a good idea to take your dog to the vet. Parasites such as lice, fleas, and mites can cause abnormal or unusual shedding. Ringworm, or other fungal infections, immune diseases or cancer can cause shedding, too.

If you see scabs, bumps, or rashes in addition to excessive shedding, if your dog is licking excessively and experiencing fur loss, or if you notice your dog acting unusual in addition to the shedding, it might be a good idea to take your dog to the vet.

Let the Groomers at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa Help with Your Dog’s Shedding

Three dogs in towels after bathing

Our professional groomers have years of experience with shedding! At The Ranch, your dog is treated like royalty with its own spa day! Ask about our de-shedding treatments and specialty shampoos. Your dog will leave looking, smelling, and feeling great!

Contact us to make an appointment for your dog at our award-winning, luxury spa!

Check out our Facebook Highlight Reel of Your Dog at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

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If you are in need of some laughs and giggles, may we suggest you make it part of your daily or weekly routine to check out the Facebook highlight reel of your dog at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa?

Our professional doggy daycare managers keep the video reels going throughout the day to capture your bestie at play! You may be surprised to see how your pooch acts when you aren’t around!

When work, the kids, life, or school gets you down, there is no bigger way to put a smile on your face than to see the dogs in action at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

Favorite Highlights from the Dogs at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

Summer is just days away! The dogs at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa are feeling some early summer fun! With the warm weather and our uber-spectacular, super-splash-zone water park for dogs, our dogs are having a crazy good time.

Frenchie Wipe Out

Check out this screen shot of Little Frenchie gone wild! Then zip over to our Facebook page to see the video in “reel” time. His form is incredible, but his recovery earns Frenchie a Purrfect 10!

It’s Monday. Is that Mufasa Overlooking the Land?

The Facebook message speaks of new friends having a blast! We think the Border Collie on the top of the play structure makes for a perfect Mufasa overlooking his den, no? Someone has to be in charge of the pack! Click here to see the “reel” version of what’s going on in the play area!

Guess What Happens Next?

The scene: a bunch of dogs gather around on a warm day with water features. Guess what happens next? Do the pack of dogs:

A) Call it a day and lie down?

B) Run laps?

C) Start howling for treats?

Click the Facebook link to find out!

Keeping Your Dogs and Cats Safe and Healthy This Summer

The Pet Ranch Resort and Spa wants to remind you to keep your dogs and cats safe and healthy this summer. In our May Bowser Report, we posted an infographic reminding you of ways to make sure your dogs and cats are safe and healthy in the summer weather.

Summer may also be a good time to check and see if your dogs or cats suffer from some of the most common pet ailments.

According to Vetsource, “Dogs and cats have many of the same health problems as humans — but they may not show symptoms in the same ways we do. Our pets have an instinctual response to hide their vulnerabilities. It’s up to us to pay attention, learn the symptoms, and help them get the best treatment.”

Some of the most common ailments in dogs and cats include:

  • Fleas
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Ear infections
  • Allergies
  • Worms
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Hot spots/skin irritations

Check with your vet to make sure your pet is healthy and happy! Don’t forget about their mental health as well! Keeping your pet fit, active, and interacting with friends is part of their social development.

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is happy to offer doggie daycare and boarding for your dog or cat. Contact us today to find out more or make a reservation!

May Bowser Report at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

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The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa has been busy, and we are happy to fill our readers in with the May Bowser Report!

Splashing Good Fun at our Water Feature!

The warm weather makes our water feature one of the most popular activities at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

We’ve had reports of some dogs that “didn’t like water” be the first ones to run in and splash around…or…watch before they splash around. But really, who doesn’t want to be involved in games once we see all our pals having fun?

Pet Spa Days are Popular!

Word has it the dogs are all bragging about the most excellent care they are receiving at our Dog Grooming facility. Pampered pooches are strutting around with new pooch cuts, nail trims, and facials, and we couldn’t be more pleased! Our groomers are some of the best professionals around, making sure each dog is treated to the very best in grooming and pampering!

Who’s up for some TLC? With summer here, the de-shedding treatment is a welcome relief for dogs and people alike! While you’re there, ask for the blueberry facial and the nail polish! Even the most manly mutt would love to be rubbed, scrubbed, and treated like a King for the day!

Vacation Mode is ON!

Staying home was so 2020. 2021 is here and our hooman’s are ready to travel! Have you heard the new saying? “When the hooman’s play, the dogs get to stay”? Well, there’s no time like the present to make your Summer Reservations for Dog and Cat Boarding at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa!

Picture: temperature-controlled rooms soothing music, love, affection, attention, and the added safety bonus of the owner living on site! What else could a dog or cat ask for?

Tell your people that new boarders get the first night free! (subject to availability of course!).

Summer Tips for Dogs and Cats

Seasonal pet safety tips infographic with icons: how to protect your pet from heat and cold in summer and winter

This summer, please remember these summer safety tips for dogs and cats! With hot weather on the horizon, it’s important to keep us in mind. We know you love us and want us around for a long time!

Check out The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa on Facebook and Instagram!

There is a lot of activity going on during the day at The Ranch! One of the best ways to see the action live is to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages. You will see some of the CUTEST faces, check out the newbies at The Ranch, watch us play in the water, chase each other, hop on all the cool toys, rest, watch, and have a ton of fun!

Stay Tuned for More Summer Fun at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

The Ranch’s staff is putting our heads together to make this summer PAWTASTIC for all our friends! Stay tuned for more information! Want to be added to our email newsletter and be the first to know? Contact us!

Benefits of Dog Training

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Every year, millions of dogs and puppies are turned into animal rescue services or shelters due to behaviors their owners said were unmanageable.

However, with the proper care and treatment, love, time, boundaries and training, “unmanageable” dogs and puppies can turn into some of the most well-trained dogs.

What Causes Bad Dog Behavior?

Dogs are not born bad. While it is true many breeds get bad reputations, the simple truth is, dogs are products of their environment.

If left without the proper care and training, dogs don’t develop the proper skills necessary to be the best versions of themselves. There are a lot of reasons dogs develop and practice bad behaviors.

Instinct

If your dog has ever rolled in dirt, a dead animal, mud, or gasp, poop! there is a good chance it is due to instinct and not to annoy you. The same is true for behaviors such as digging, chewing, and chasing.

While these behaviors are often natural and fun for Fido, behavioral instruction can be taken to eliminate or lessen these behaviors.

Health Issues

If a dog is not feeling well and experiencing some type of health issue, it may act up. Biting, growling, defecating in the house, chewing, eating items, or other unacceptable behaviors may be cause for you to take your dog to your vet.

Mixed Signals by Owners

Many owners are shocked to learn they are sending mixed signals to their dogs which actually reinforce poor behavior. Let’s take barking as an explanation.

It’s a natural tendency for a dog to bark. Dogs bark because they are protecting their territory, warning you, trying to get your attention, bored, lonely, irritated, greeting another dog or person, surprise, annoyed, and so much more.

Surprisingly, an owner’s reaction to their dog’s barking can be one of the causes of incessant or uncontrolled barking. If you laugh, play with, pet or even yell at a dog while it’s barking, you could be sending mixed signals to your dog to reinforce their barking.

Learn how to control barking with dog training.

Boredom and Not Enough Exercise

If your dog is destructive, chewing, digging, or tugging at your clothes to get your attention, there is reason to suspect your dog is bored or not getting enough exercise.

Dogs need to be stimulated with toys and appropriate items to chew and to be exercised according to the needs of their breed.

Some dogs are born to run, and that walk around the block is not sufficient. Dog parks and doggy daycare are much better outlets for high energy dogs when you cannot meet their needs.

It’s Not Too Late to Train Your Dog

Every dog deserves to have the privilege of being trained to be proper, walk without pulling on the leash, play well with others, and have a strong sense of identity, self-assurance, and manners.

Dog Training encourages your dog to have boundaries and to listen and obey you. With the proper techniques and training by professionals, your dog will be a welcomed addition wherever you go.

Dog Training at The Pet Resort and Spa

If you have a dog that could benefit from dog training, please contact us to learn more and see if our program is right for you! Visit our blog to find out more information!