The Ranch Pet Resort

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Pet Health and Safety Tips

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.

What to do When You Find a Lost Dog or Cat

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It’s no coincidence that more dogs and cats get lost this time of year than any other part of the year.

Holiday parties, Fourth of July Fireworks, BBQ’s, summer pool fun, vacations, and visitors mean more chaos in the household and more chances for scared, anxious, frightened, or excited dogs and cats to run away, run and hide, or just plain venture out when a gate is not closed or locked. According to the American Kennel Club, “…more pets go missing during July 4th weekend than any other time of the year.”

So, what do you do when you find a lost dog or cat?

Tips on Reuniting the Family Dog or Cat with its Owner

When you find a dog or cat that you believe is lost or displaced, it’s important to act in a timely manner. Chances are, the owners are looking for the pet as well, and trying to unite the two will ease the stress and anxiety for both the lost dog or cat and the owners.

Approaching a lost dog or cat should be done with careful precision not to cause injury or harm to you, the lost pet or your pet.

If a dog shows signs of being friendly, carefully approach the dog and look for a tag, collar, or other apparel such as a bandana that might include identification. If you find identification, call the number as soon as possible and text a picture of the dog for further confirmation.

If the dog is without a collar and allows you to either put a leash or collar on it, it’s best to isolate the dog in a confined space if you can. This time alone keeps your pets safe, calms the lost dog, and lessens the chance of either pet contracting diseases or fleas. Include a blanket or bed if you have one and food and water.

If you find a lost cat, carefully attempt to look for identification as well. Displaced or stray cats are extremely difficult to catch, and you should only attempt to do so if you have prior experience and the right clothing and a carrier.

Should the lost cat allow you to pick it up, quarantine it in a small space with a blanket, food, and water.

I Have the Lost Dog or Cat- What Do I Do Now?

If the lost dog or cat does not have an ID tag, call your vet and ask if you can bring the animal in to scan it for a microchip. Most vets will help you scan the animal; many rescue sources may even send a person to your home, thereby eliminating the stress from a trip to the vet.

If the pet is microchipped, contact the owners immediately and make arrangements to return the pet. Then congratulate yourself for successfully rehoming a lost dog or cat.

Advertise a Lost Dog or Cat

Social media is an excellent place to advertise a lost dog or cat. The Nextdoor app is also a great platform to use to share news of the lost dog or cat. Include several pictures of the dog or cat and a summary of what the dog or cat looks like.

Include the gender and color of the dog or cat and keep in mind that time away from home, the weather, mud puddles, and more can alter the color of the animal. Take notice of any unusual markings or behaviors that might distinguish the lost dog or cat from any other.

Also include the area you found the lost dog or cat, keeping in mind, lost animals can travel miles away. Of course, include a way to contact you-display several phone numbers, an email, a social media account, an address, or all of the above.

Put up fliers around the neighborhood with pictures, descriptions, and contact information.

Look on Sites that Advertise Lost Dogs and Cats

Be proactive in your search and contact your local animal shelters with a description of the lost dog or cat. Visit as many as you can if you have time and look through their book for postings that match the dog or cat you found.

Look for websites that post lost pets and be diligent in checking constantly. Sometimes an owner is unaware of their pet being lost due to being on vacation or traveling.

Contact rescue sites and nearby vets and pet stores in case the owner has been there looking for their pets.

Be sure to share with everyone you know that you have found a lost dog or cat and ask them to share this information as well.

Today’s technology makes the world a smaller space to reunite lost dogs or cats and shortens the time it takes to reconnect loved ones with their pets.

Keep Your Dogs and Cats Safe this Summer

If you are worried that company, your travels, or your busy lifestyle might be too much for your dog or cat, consider boarding them with The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa in Livermore’s beautiful wine country.

Whether you are interested in daycare or boarding your dog or cat, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is a safe and enjoyable place for your dog to rest and relax. Contact us to make a reservation!

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!

Helpful Tips to Socialize Your Dog

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Women running with dogs - The Ranch Pet Resort

One of the best parts about being a dog owner is socializing your dog with other dogs and people. Dogs are pack animals who, for the most part, enjoy being around others for playtime, a gentle wrestling match, a game of chase, tug of war, hide and seek, or even naptime!

A well-socialized dog shows confidence, friendliness, and happiness! These behaviors are learned from puppyhood and carried on to adulthood. Some dogs learn acceptable and even non-acceptable “dog behaviors” from other dogs, so socializing your playful pooch is one of the best gifts you can give your dog.

Start Socializing Your Dog as Soon as Possible

Whether you just received your beloved pooch who is a young adult, have had him for years, or are the owner of a brand new puppy, now is the best time to slowly acclimate your dog to sights, sounds, and other dogs or people.

Dog Daycare - The Ranch Pet Resort

Dogs who are current on their shots can enjoy walks around the yard, the neighborhood, or around the perimeter of a nearby dog park.

Expose them to new sights, sounds, people, and even other dogs. Dogs of confident owners pick up their human’s cues, leading them to be better at not fearing new places, sights, sounds, and smells.

Let your dog ease into a dog park rather than introducing a newbie to the pack of dogs right away. Allowing your dog to take the initiative to approach from a safe distance outside the park will instill the confidence and excitement necessary for a fun first encounter inside the dog park!

Puppies Need Socializing, Too

Dog with little girl - The Ranch Pet Resort

Puppies develop the habits they form as adults during critical, developmental times in their lives. Beginning around 3 weeks and ending about the fifth month, the experiences a puppy has can determine his disposition. An under-socialized puppy tends to be more fearful and cautious whereas a well-socialized pooch tends to be bold, brave, and confident!

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa recommends exposing your puppy to sounds around the home such as a vacuum, pots and pans, loud noises and TV’s or radios. Having people who have washed their hands over to pet, hug, hold, or even just be present around the pup teaches the puppy not to fear others.

Since your young puppy won’t have all its shots yet, do your socializing in your home or fenced yard. An unvaccinated pup is more susceptible to disease or illness.

There is still plenty of adventure to be had at home before the pup gets to experience the world outside from the other side of the door, window, or fence.

Socializing at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

Ask anyone of our furry canines what they love about The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa and they will tell you about the fun they have with their canine friends and our excellent staff!

Whether your dog is up for chase, playing ball, exploring our tunnels, tubes, and blocks, or just prefers the quieter time with our handlers, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa puts socialization at the top of our priorities.

Have You Experienced the Fun at the New Water Park?

With weather in the 70’s in January, our dogs are having a howling great time splashing in the water, running through the squirt stations, or just lapping up the water in the shallow puddles.

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is the only dog park with the water feature, and it’s been rated one of the best parts of doggie daycare according to some very reputable and furry sources.

Events to Keep Your Dog Wanting to Come Back for More Dog Daycare

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is always coming up with creative activities for our fluffy guests. We get immense joy out of hosting events and watching your dogs eat, play, socialize, interact, exercise, and zonk out after a most pawsitively good time!

Whether it’s eating turkey out of a cone, chasing bacon flavored bubbles, or posing in front of the kennel’s first holiday party scene, our daycare and dog boarding friends get the royal treatment!

Stay Tuned for News About Puppy Bowl 2021 and Valentine’s Treats and Fun

Your dog will always have a great time at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa. Whether she wants to visit for a day at our doggie daycare or have a slumber party at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, we promise a great time!

We are gearing up for Puppy Bowl 2021. Get your best athlete ready for some Puppy Bowl fun The Ranch style! Whether he is a wide receiver, the star of the show, or prefers to nap along the sidelines, there will be fun for all at Puppy Bowl 2021.

Then show your Valentine how much you love her by signing her up for our special Valentine Event. Dogs will be shown extra love and affection with something special for you at our Valentine Event.

More details coming soon!