The Ranch Pet Resort

Premium dog & cat boarding, dog daycare, play groups, dog & cat grooming, and more!

Uncategorized

Fourth of July Holiday Tips

by

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

Top Three Benefits to Owning a Pet

by

For the pet lover, owning a pet brings many benefits-from having someone to come home to after a long day at work to the morning snuggles and cuddles that help us begin our day, our pets bring us more than just joy, comfort, and laughs. They boost our health and improve our social lives, which is no surprise to the millions of people who own pets.

This month’s blog reflects on just three of the many benefits to owning a pet.

Pets Improve our Mood

Any pet lover knows that the worst day at work can be eased by coming home to your dog or cat who is always eager and excited to see you. Just the mere touch, snuggle, or wiggly tail can put a person in a better mood. And who doesn’t laugh at the countless TikTok videos of funny animal clips?!

Sad, depressed, anxious? Get a pet! According to Help.guide, pets increase our seratonin and dopamine levels, leaving us with feelings of peace and security and lowering anxiety and depression.

It’s a fact that “Pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets” (source).

But only those without pets need to read a study to understand how owning something that loves you unconditionally can improve your mood even at the lowest of times.

Pets Improve our Health

Great dog owners understand their dog’s needs to go for a walk, and that walk benefits the owners as well. In a world that celebrates 10,000 steps a day, walking is a great way to get in those steps, burn calories, maintain a healthy weight, improve heart health, and improve sleep.

Looking for more information about how walking a dog can improve your health? Click this health article by Denise Lum.

Pets Make Us Social

People with pets tend to interact with others more than people without pets. I once noticed my neighbor walking his cat on a leash and commented how unusual this was and how happy his cat seemed to be. This neighbor, whom I’ve never spoken to or seen again, and I struck up a conversation that would not have occurred beyond a simple, “Hi,” if he was doing anything other than walking his cat.

Our family owned a Flemish Giant Rabbit, and we had neighbors and dogs come up to our gate all of the time to ask about this huge Bunny. Every neighbor, delivery person, contractor or landscaper who came over has a picture of Teddy on their phone.

Just yesterday, I commented on my neighbor who had just gotten a new puppy. We chatted briefly about the joys and challenges of puppyhood!

My neighbor is very thoughtful about sending me images of my cat peering in on him in his bedroom. She is an escape artist and my neighbor reaches out with his takes on what it looks like on his end to have our little Houdini cat acting like the neighborhood Peeping Tom.

Pets allow people to strike up conversations they may not otherwise have started if it wasn’t for a pet. According to a study conducted by Harvard and the University of Australia, “…people with pets were 60 percent more likely than people without pets to easily meet other folks in their communities.”

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa Loves All of Your Pets

No matter what your reasons are for getting a pet, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa loves your pets! We can attest that your pets provide us laughter and joy. Coming to work is the best part of our day!

If you would like more information on our doggie daycare, dog or cat boarding, or board and stay programs, please reach out to us! Our friendly and helpful staff is here to answer all of your questions!

Why Does My Dog React Differently at the Dog Park?

by

We’ve had a few owners ask us about their dogs acting differently at the dog park verses the ways they acted when they were younger or when they come to The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa to play at doggie daycare.

Many owners are surprised to learn that dogs go through different stages, much like humans do. Puppies tend to love to romp and play and make new friends and are happy to be at the dog park. But as puppies age, their interests change, and they don’t always want to be around a group of dogs, some of which have different play styles.

Dogs, again, like humans, can also become dog selective, meaning they prefer the certain company of some dogs more than others. Whether the preference is due to play style, activity level, size, age, or gender of dog, it’s common for many dogs to prefer some dogs and avoid others.

When dogs go to The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, they can become used to the routine of the visit, our professional dog handlers, their buddies, and familiarity of the situation.

At the dog park, certain elements can cause your dog to feel “thrown off,” resulting in your dog feeling overstimulated, excited, anxious, and even fearful. Take the overprotective dog parent who doesn’t understand the noises your dog makes are playful and not aggressive.

Mix in the new dog owner who doesn’t understand a dog’s body image and intervenes during a perfectly natural play session. Or even worse, consider the neglectful or distracted dog owner who fails to control his dog’s actions, leading to fights or scuffles.

Add the new puppy who jumps on your dog, steals a favorite ball, or lacks manners, and your dog may retreat, show signs of aggression, shy away, or be clingy.

Some dogs who have a high prey drive may mistake smaller, younger, or quick moving dogs for prey and act in ways that upset owners-and rightfully so.

Aging Dogs Have Special Needs

Aging dogs who were once the fastest at the park or agile and playful have different needs. They don’t often like to be around jumpy dogs or dogs that “introduce themselves” by sniffing at their rear ends.

Aging dogs often need just space and time to socialize on their own time and with their own agendas. For an elder pup, the dog park presents an exciting trip away from home to be with their favorite human, smell some good scents, and lay in the cool grass.

Their prime motivation for going to the dog park is to rest and relax, much like an adult human who enjoys a nap on a lazy afternoon.

Dogs with Special Needs

Some special needs dogs will react differently at the dog park because they have not had the same background, socialization, or experience as other dogs.

Between the ages of 7-12 weeks, puppies are susceptible to situations that imprint on them for life. If a dog didn’t have a good experience around other dogs or wasn’t socialized during those periods, that dog may present fear, caution, aggression, or shyness at the dog park. These dogs need time, experience, and positive interactions to feel more confident at the dog park.

A dog that has an injury or illness that the owner is unaware of may also act differently. Like humans, we aren’t very social or friendly when we hurt or are in pain.

Likewise, a dog recovering from illness or injury may need more time to acclimate themselves and feel comfortable and confident at the dog park. Slow introductions are necessary to allow your dog to feel up to playing on its terms.

Considerations for Taking Your Dog to the Dog Park

All dogs need exercise to feel stimulated, avoid boredom, and socialize. If walking your dog isn’t enough exercise, your dog thrives from running “free,” or if you just want a new environment for your dog, be aware of how your dog may react at the dog park.

There is no “one size fits all” dog for the dog park, and even your dog-park loving best friend may react differently each time you take it to the dog park.

If your dog acts differently at the dog park, just be aware of the situations, circumstances and reasons your dog may react the way it does.

As a responsible pet owner, it’s our job to make sure our pets feel safe and not reactive to other dogs or situations. Enjoy your time at the dog park, but be prepared to leave if your dog shows signs of fear, anxiety, or aggression.

Looking for a Safe Place to Exercise Your Dog With Supervision by Professional Dog Handlers?

Consider booking your dog at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa if you would like to leave your dog in a safe, protected environment that is always under the watchful eye of our professional dog handlers. We have doggie daycare and pet boarding available.

The Ranch also has the experience and knowledge to understand your dog’s behavior, redirect the dogs, and even provide stimulating toys and the East Bay’s only water park. The combination makes for a very happy and exhausted doggie and even happier parents.

When your dog starts to enjoy the routine and meets up with regular friends under our careful eye, your dog may start to assimilate The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa with confidence, excitement, and happiness. And isn’t that the greatest gift we can give our dogs?

Benefits of Owning More than One Dog or Cat

by

Animal lovers such as this blogger find deep companionship in the company of multiple pets. When you rescue shelter pets, you become immune to the work, time, care, and expense that owning multiple pets requires.

So when I tell people how many dogs and cats I have, their expressions and comments vary from-I don’t know how you manage that many pets to you’re crazy-and that expression mostly comes from my kids.

It’s true that having more than one dog or cat is a lot more of everything! More work, more fur, more food, more waste, more money to spend on doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, veterinarian expenses and so forth.

But I find the real joy in multiple pet ownership outweighs any of the negatives.

Agree or not, here are some reasons for owning more than one dog or cat; and these reasons also benefit your dog or cat.

Why Owning More Than One Pet Is Worth It

Adopting more than one pet may require extra effort, but the rewards are well worth it. If your dog or cat enjoys the company of others, having a second pet can lead to a happier, healthier household for everyone—animals and humans alike. Pets benefit from companionship, and their owners often experience more joy and stronger emotional bonds.

Benefits for Pets: Companionship and Activity

One of the biggest advantages of having two pets is that they keep each other company. Whether you’re at work, asleep, or running errands, your pets can play, rest, or explore together. This helps reduce boredom and loneliness, which are common in single-pet homes.

Pets also tend to be more active when they have a playmate. Dogs will chase, wrestle, and run together, while cats may stalk and pounce as part of natural hunting behavior. This kind of interaction often leads to more daily exercise than a human alone can provide. Staying active is important for preventing health problems as pets age.

Each pet also brings its own personality to the household. One might be quiet and affectionate, while the other is playful and full of energy. This variety can be fun and rewarding for everyone in the home. Pets can also bond with different members of the family, strengthening connections all around.

Health Benefits for Owners

Pets aren’t just good for each other—they’re good for us, too. Owning a cat or dog has been linked to lower stress levels, reduced feelings of loneliness, and even improved heart health. When you pet or cuddle an animal, your body releases oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone). This can lead to lower blood pressure and a calmer mood.

Having two pets can double these moments of connection. Whether one is curled up next to you or both are playing across the room, it brings a steady sense of companionship. Pets can also help you stay more active. Dogs need walks and playtime, and even cats like to chase toys or explore, encouraging more movement and engagement in your daily life.

You might also find yourself more social with multiple pets. Animals often attract attention when you’re out and about, making it easier to meet new people. They’re natural conversation starters and can help you feel more connected to others.

Stronger Bonds and Lifelong Joy

The bond between two pets can be heartwarming to witness. Watching them groom each other, curl up together, or play chase through the house adds joy to your home. Their friendship is pure and strong—and it often mirrors the bond they share with you.

Of course, adopting more than one pet means making sure they’re compatible. Introduce them gradually and provide separate spaces at first. With patience and care, most pets will adjust and learn to enjoy each other’s company.

In the end, having more than one dog or cat often means more laughter, love, and connection. Two pets can enrich each other’s lives—and yours—every single day.

Considering adding another dog or cat to your household? Visit your local shelter, rescue group, or responsible breeder.

You Asked, We’re Answering! Here are the Responses to Some of the Questions You Asked On Our Social Media Pages

by

In today’s Ask The Ranch blog, we are going to answer some of the questions we get asked on our social media pages.

Our Ranch professional dog handlers understand you want to see your dogs or cats while they are in our care, and we do our best to feature as many of our adorable guests as we can!

Why isn’t my dog featured on today’s video or pictures?

Our primary focus is on your pets’ health, happiness, well-being, and welfare, and that sometimes takes us away from adding to your pet’s social influencer status! We try our best to spotlight as many pets as possible not only to make you feel comforted, but to also share how much fun the dogs have while in our care.

It seems so unfair that we are the only ones who get to see the dogs zooming, biting at the water, resting on each other, or simply choosing that one hiding spot for some serious R&R.

And while some dogs just love to have the camera on them, some of your fur babies are camera shy!

But don’t despair! We love to post the images and videos on our Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business Listings, so keep looking. Some days your pet will be fully featured and on other days, you will see them streak by!

Just know that one fact is certain, while under our care, your pet is safe, happy, and loved!

Is it safe for our young, little, shy, bashful, (insert concerned adjective) dog to be in that playgroup?

We temperament test all of our dogs and fit them in the right playgroup by age, activity level, size, experience, personality. We typically start out by separating the dogs by size, but some owners wonder if a young pup is safe with bigger, older dogs.

We want to reassure you that we are constantly watching to make sure that each dog feels safe and fits in with the energy levels of the other dogs. We have had instances where the smalls have more energy than some of the bigs and some pups just want to run with the big dogs!

Our experienced professionals take into account each dog’s personality, energy, age, size, and needs to ensure a positive and rewarding daycare or dog boarding experience. We want all dogs to want to return and have you feel confident that your best friend is treated just as we would want our dogs to be treated.

Can You Help My Dog Be More Social? I Want Him to Play with Other Dogs

We understand the fun of a playgroups, and we also understand some dogs take longer to warm up than others. That is why we make sure to do a thorough temperament testing with your dog. Dogs have unique personalities and depending on their background or experience, they may need some additional assistance to be added to our social playgroups.

We offer dog training services with professional trainers who can help your dog with obedience, behavioral issues, and socialization skills. Since no two dogs are the same, it’s best you speak to one of our trainers about your particular pooch!

If you are interested in booking a session or one of our stay and train packages, please register here!

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

by

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.