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Pet Health and Safety Tips

Summer Safety Tips for Pets

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Hot weather can be dangerous for our furry friends, and it’s always a good idea to keep reminding ourselves how to prevent our pets from heat exhaustion, an expensive vet visit, or worse.

Follow these simple tips to keep your pets cool, healthy, and safe this summer. Need a safe place for your dog to cool off like Boomer? Try our doggie daycare! We have the only water park in the East Bay meant for dogs!

1. Keep Pets Indoors

Pets can overheat quickly, just like people. When it’s hot, limit outdoor time—especially during the middle of the day—and make sure they have a cool space indoors with air conditioning or fans. Overheating can lead to serious health issues.

2. Never Leave Pets in the Car

Even on mild days, a parked car can become dangerously hot in minutes—even with the windows cracked. Every year, pets suffer or die from being left in cars. Always leave them at home where it’s safe and cool.

3. Visit the Vet

Schedule a check-up in spring or early summer. Make sure your pet is protected against fleas, ticks, and heartworm—these are more common in warmer months. A quick visit to the vet now can prevent bigger problems later.

4. Walk During Cooler Hours

Avoid walking dogs in the heat of the day. Early morning or late evening is best. Hot pavement can burn their paws, and they can overheat quickly. Always carry water and watch for signs of exhaustion like heavy panting or slowing down.

5. Provide Shade and Water

If your pet spends time outdoors, make sure they have plenty of fresh, clean water and a shady place to rest. Dehydration and heatstroke can come on fast in hot weather.

6. Know Heat-Sensitive Breeds

Some dogs—like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus—are more vulnerable to heat due to their short noses. Older pets, puppies, and overweight animals also need extra care. Watch them closely in warm weather.

7. Don’t Shave Their Coat

It may seem like shaving your pet will keep them cool, but their fur actually helps regulate body temperature. A light trim is fine, but don’t remove their coat entirely. When in doubt, talk to a groomer.

8. Avoid Stagnant Water

Swimming can be fun, but ponds or lakes with still water may contain toxic algae. Stick to clean water sources like sprinklers or running streams, and always rinse your pet after swimming—especially in saltwater.

9. Keep Pets Safe During Fireworks

Loud fireworks can frighten pets and cause them to run away. Keep pets indoors during celebrations, and make sure they have a quiet, safe place to hide. Check your yard for firework debris the next day.

10. Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen

Pets can get sunburn too, especially on hairless or lightly pigmented areas like the nose, ears, belly, and groin. Use sunscreen made for pets, and keep them out of direct sunlight during peak hours.

11. Avoid the Beach Unless Prepared

If you bring your pet to the beach, provide shade and lots of fresh water. Sand and saltwater can be harsh—rinse your pet off after swimming, and keep an eye out for signs of overheating.

12. Watch Out for Chemicals

Avoid letting pets walk on recently treated lawns or drink from puddles near sprayed areas. Also, check for coolant leaks from cars—antifreeze is sweet-tasting but deadly. Use pet-safe products whenever possible.

13. Keep ID Tags and Microchips Updated

If your pet gets scared and runs off, proper ID can help them get home. Make sure they wear a tag with current info and consider a microchip for added security.

14. Learn the Signs of Overheating

A relaxed Hungarian vizsla enjoys the cool shade of a table amidst vibrant greenery in a tranquil garden setting

Watch for heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, red or purple gums, or your pet lying down and refusing to move. These are signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke—get them to a vet right away.

15. Cool Treats for Hot Days

Make dog- or cat-friendly frozen treats at home using ingredients like peanut butter, broth, or wet food. These “pupsicles” or “catsicles” are a fun and easy way to help pets cool down.

Final Reminder:

If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. Keep them safe, cool, and hydrated all summer long—they depend on you!

Have a safe and healthy summer from all of us at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa!

Fourth of July Holiday Tips

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The Fourth of July weekend kicks off this Friday, which makes for a long weekend of celebrations. We are lucky to live in Livermore, home to many fun and family-friendly Fourth of July activities right in our own backyard. Or, we can make a short trip to the mountains or the beach!

However you decide to celebrate the Fourth of July, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wishes each of you a fun, safe, and festive Fourth of July. Please enjoy the holiday even more with our Fourth of July Holiday Tips.

Keep Your Pet Safe on the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is filled with crowds, music, action, fireworks in some places, and a variety of tasty food and drink.

At this time of year, it’s especially important to remember that not all of our pets enjoy the festivities and are easily spooked; some are even traumatized.

While you enjoy the Fourth of July celebrations, please make safety a primary consideration for your pets, as fireworks, strangers, and loud noises are a trigger for many animals, creating stress, anxiety and overcrowded shelters.

Place your pet in a crate or locked room with food and water, comforting toys, chewies, soft music or a quiet TV show. Thundershirts are often a great tool for dogs who experience much stress.

If you go out, ask a responsible person to check on your pet. Having someone there to calm a stressed dog can do wonders for a reactive pet. Just make sure they return the pet to the closed crate or room.

Keep your dogs at home for any Fourth of July activity. Even the most secure pooch can be easily stressed or escape if you are distracted. Hot pavement or heat create health hazards to our beloved canines. Make the Fourth a time for you and your friends and family, securing your pet at home.

DID YOU KNOW? ***************

The day after the Fourth of July is the most crowded day at the shelters, as frightened pets who aren’t secured safely in a room or crate often get scared and run off.

Watch the video below to learn ways to keep your pet out of the shelter on the Fourth of July.

Take Measures to Track a Lost Pet

If your pet does get lost, you should take these measures to find it.

  • Call and visit your local shelter daily.
  • Put lost and found posters around the neighborhood and beyond. Dogs can roam for miles, increasing the travel distance.
  • Offer a reward for the safe return of your pet.
  • Post on Nextdoor and all social media platforms.
  • Ask everyone to share the news that your pet is missing. Give details about what your pet looks like, what its name is, and ways to get it back or advice on not chasing it in the event it may run further away.

Keep Dogs and Cats Away from Holiday Food

Holiday food is oh, so good, but can cause diarrhea, vomiting, an expensive hospital visit, or even death to a dog or cat.

Avoid sharing even the littlest bit of food with your dog and ask your guests to not share food either.

You never know how a pet is going to react to a holiday treat or if it may contain something in it that causes allergies or is toxic to your dog or cat.

If you have a side yard, room, or crate, it’s best your pet is unable to roam around during your Fourth of July holiday party. Even the most attentive hosts can be distracted by the most cunning dog or cat who is just as tempted to enjoy the food and drink.

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

How Dogs Play at Different Ages

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Just like people, dogs change as they grow—and that includes how they play! Puppies are little balls of energy, adults tend to settle into a rhythm, and seniors may slow down but still enjoy a good game. Here’s how play behavior shifts as dogs get older.

Puppies (Under 6 Months)

All Energy, All the Time
Puppies are super curious and love to explore the world through play.

They Play A LOT
They can go for hours and seem like they never get tired.

Learning Through Play
Play helps them understand how to interact with people and other dogs.

Figuring Out Boundaries
Rough-and-tumble play teaches important lessons like when to stop and how to be gentle.

Tip: This is the perfect time to encourage good play habits!

Adolescents (6–18 Months)

Play Gets Rougher
Teenage dogs are full of energy and might play harder than before.

Pushing Limits
They may test the rules or challenge other dogs during play.

Pickier About Playmates
They start forming preferences about who they want to play with.

Watch for Overexcitement
These dogs can get overstimulated quickly, so supervision is key.

Consider structured games to help burn off energy while teaching focus.

Adult Dogs (18 Months to Around 7 Years)

They Know What They Like
Adults often have a favorite toy, game, or playmate.

More Chill
They still enjoy playing, but usually in a calmer way.

Selective Players
Some are still super playful—others, not so much.

Different for Every Dog
One adult dog might chase a ball all day, while another just wants belly rubs.

Related: Best Toys for Adult Dogs

Senior Dogs (7+ Years)

Slower Pace
Older dogs may not have the same stamina they used to.

Mobility Issues
Things like arthritis can make high-energy games uncomfortable.

Adjust the Game
Try gentler play like short tug-of-war, food puzzles, or sniff-and-find games.

Mental Changes Too
Cognitive decline may affect how they interact or understand play.

Play helps seniors stay mentally sharp and emotionally connected.

Key Things to Remember

  • Every Dog’s Different: Age is a factor, but personality matters too.
  • Health = Playfulness: A dog’s health can affect how much (or how little) they want to play.
  • Start Young: Dogs who play and socialize early tend to grow into confident, happy adults.
  • Always Supervise: Make sure play stays safe and fun for everyone involved—especially when mixing dogs of different ages or sizes.

Keep Play Fun at Any Age

Understanding how your dog’s play changes as they grow helps you give them what they need at every stage of life. Whether they’re full of puppy zoomies or just want a quiet game of fetch, playtime is always a chance to bond.

Want more tips? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly dog-friendly games, training tips, and more! Simply email info@theranchpetresort.com and ask to be added to the email list!

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

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On this day filled with love and affection, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa would like to wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day!

And what better way to kick off today than with Valentine’s from some of our beloved guests!

Happy Valentine’s Day from The Dogs of The Ranch

Blue wishes you a most delightful Valentine’s Day! Blue represents all of the pittie dogs and pups who have endless love and affection to give all day every day. Who can resist Blue’s sweet charm and puppy dog eyes?

Dolce wants no none to be left “behind” on this Valentine’s Day. He represents the German Shorthair Pointers and all of the Ranch Dogs who have no problem being behind the scenes. These goofballs are fine not to take center stage and have all of the confidence to be photographed from all angles. If you look closely enough, you might even see the resemblance of a heart amid all of those mass muscles and spots!

With eyes this affectionate, how can you not fall for Lula? Lula represents all of the Ranch pups who speak with their eyes and melt our hearts. How can you not fall in love with someone so sweet and ready to give hugs with those giant paws. Lula, you had us with your brows. May all of your Valentine wished come true!

Ah, Pretzel, no one ever wants to be dumped on Valentine’s Day. That is why we count on you to make sure you do your “doodie” and keep us together. Pretzel represent our self-confident puppers whose high-energy antics and agility skills keep us on our toes. You know what’s better than this sweet Pretzel? Lots of pretzels covered in chocolate and dipped in sprinkles.

Valentine’s Wishes from The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

May your Valentine’s Day be filled with love from your fur babies, and may you shower them with the affection they deserve.

We feel so lucky to be able to spend Valentine’s Day with your dogs and soak up all of the love and affection they provide to us this day and every day!

Human Foods that are Safe for Dogs

If you want to spoil your dog this Valentine’s Day, here are some human foods that are safe for dogs as well as some foods that you should avoid. Remember, chocolate and alcohol is toxic for dogs, so keep the chocolate covered strawberries and champagne for you!

Natural dog food Hungry brown dog lying near its bowl full of meat food looking at camera, top view

The Growing Popularity of Homemade Pet Food: A Trend Driven by Health and Quality

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In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the way pet owners approach feeding their dogs and cats. More and more, people are opting for homemade pet food over commercially produced kibble or canned options.

This trend has grown in popularity due to various factors such as concerns about pet health, a desire for transparency in ingredients, and the increasing awareness of the potential risks associated with mass-produced pet food.

With an emphasis on nutrition, quality control, and personalized diets, homemade dog food has become a preferred choice for many pet owners seeking the best for their furry companions.

Health Concerns and Quality Control

One of the primary drivers of the popularity of homemade dog food is the growing awareness of the potential risks associated with commercial dog and cat food. While many high-quality brands exist, there have been instances of recalls, contamination, and the discovery of harmful ingredients in mass-produced pet foods.

These issues have led to a shift in trust, with many pet owners now preferring to control what goes into their animals’ meals. Homemade pet food provides an opportunity to choose fresh, natural ingredients that can be tailored to the dogs’ and cats’ specific health needs.

Additionally, some commercial dog and cat food products are filled with fillers, artificial additives, and low-quality meats that may not be ideal for a pet’s health.

Homemade meals allow pet owners to focus on high-quality proteins, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains, reducing the risk of exposure to undesirable ingredients.

With the rise of dietary concerns such as obesity, allergies, and sensitivities in animals, many pet owners feel more comfortable preparing their own food to ensure their dogs and cats are receiving a well-balanced and nutritious diet.

Personalized Nutrition

Another factor contributing to the popularity of homemade pet food is the ability to customize meals based on the specific needs of individual dogs and cats. Each animal is unique, with different dietary requirements depending on factors such as age, breed, size, activity level, and any medical conditions.

Homemade pet food allows pet owners to create personalized meals that meet their pet’s specific nutritional needs, ensuring optimal health.

For example, senior dogs and cats with joint issues may benefit from recipes that include ingredients like turmeric or fish oil, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Similarly, dogs or cats with sensitive stomachs or food allergies can avoid triggering ingredients, such as grains, dairy, or common meat allergens, by creating customized meals at home.

For active dogs or working breeds, owners can focus on high-protein meals to support muscle growth and energy levels.

This level of personalization is difficult to achieve with pre-packaged pet food, making homemade options an attractive alternative.

Transparency and Control Over Ingredients

Pet owners are becoming increasingly conscious of the ingredients in the products they buy, and this extends to dog and cat food as well.

Homemade pet food offers transparency and control that commercial pet food simply cannot provide. With homemade meals, pet owners can choose organic, non-GMO ingredients, ensuring that their dogs and cats are eating food that aligns with their values and preferences.

Additionally, by cooking their pet’s food at home, owners can avoid any unwanted surprises and know exactly what their pets are consuming, which builds trust and confidence in the meals they provide.

The Growing Popularity of Homemade Dog Food: A Trend Driven by Health and Quality

The popularity of homemade pet food is expected to continue growing as more pet owners seek healthier, safer, and more personalized options for their dogs and cats.

With an increasing focus on transparency, high-quality ingredients, and nutrition, homemade dog and cat food provides a viable and often superior alternative to traditional commercial pet food.

As the trend gains momentum, pet owners are embracing the opportunity to take control of their dog and cat’s diet and health, ensuring their beloved pets live longer, healthier lives.

Why Does My Cat Rub Against Me?

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Cat Expresses Affection Through Leg Rubbing, Marking Territory And Showing Trust. This Behavior Signifies Comfort, Creating A Bond Between Feline And Human. Cartoon Vector Illustration

When The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa has the pleasure of boarding our clients’ cats, we often fall in love! Soft purrs, gentle nose bumps, tiny meows, the occasional reach out with the paw, and soft, full body rubs us often melt our hearts.

More often than not, our visiting cats rub against us, which led us to share with the simple answer to the question, Why Does My Cat Rub Against Me?

Top Reasons Your Cat Rubs Against You

Cats are pretty clear about their intentions, and their needs are few. When a cat rubs its body against you, it is trying to communicate with you. Here are the Top Reasons Your Cat Rubs Against You:

Communication Through Physical Touch

Cats use body language as their primary means of communication. When a cat rubs against you, which is also called bunting or head butting it is showing affection towards you.

Consider rubbing as cat speak for “I love you,” “I’m happy and content,” and “I care about you.” It’s their way of communicating how secure they feel and reinforcing their bond with you.

Marking Territory

Cats rub against you to mark their territory. Cats have scent glands located around their head, cheeks, and base of the tail. When they rub against you, they’re depositing their scent as a form of marking.

This behavior is rooted in their instinct to mark their territory and claim their space. It also serves to make their environment smell more familiar and comfortable.

Seeking Attention

If your cat rubs against you, it might be asking for something—whether it’s food, playtime, or a petting session. As time goes on, you will be able to determine what need your cat has when it rubs against you. But understanding all of these cues can help you better respond to your feline friend’s needs and strengthen your bond.

Social Bonding

When cats rub against each other, it’s often a sign of social bonding. The same behavior directed towards you is a sign of affection and trust. Your cat sees you as a close companion, much like they would another cat they get along with.

Comfort and Security

For many cats, rubbing against their favorite human or object is a way of seeking comfort and reinforcing their sense of security. It’s especially common in senior cats who may be more focused on maintaining their comfort and safety.

Health Concern

If you notice changes in how or how often your cat is rubbing, or if they seem unusually persistent, it could be a sign of discomfort or a health issue. If the behavior changes significantly, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet to ensure everything is okay.

Enjoy the time your cat is spending with you! These special moments make for a firm bond and socially prepared cat. A cat who shows love by rubbing is a happy and content cat!