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July 4th Celebrations and Your Pet: What You Need to Know

The Fourth of July is a time of celebration, but for our furry friends, it can be a source of fear and anxiety. Loud noises from fireworks, unfamiliar crowds, and other festivities can trigger stress in pets that can lead to health issues, accidents, and even running away.

At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we want to make sure your pet stays safe during this holiday. Here are some tips on how you can prepare for the Fourth of July and keep your pet calm during the celebrations:

Create a safe space – Designate an area in your home where your pet will feel secure. Make sure it’s away from windows or doors that could be opened by loud noises or unfamiliar people. Consider using calming products that are vet approved to help reduce their anxiety.
Update ID tags – Make sure your pet’s ID tag is up-to-date with the most recent contact information so they can easily be returned if they get lost during the festivities.
Keep them indoors – Pets should stay inside during the Fourth of July celebrations as much as possible. If you do take them outside, keep them on a leash at all times and make sure they have plenty of water to stay hydrated in the summer heat.
Avoid human food – Many holiday foods are unhealthy for pets and can cause digestive problems or even poisoning if ingested in large quantities. Keep an eye on what your pet is eating and make sure they don’t get into any food meant for humans only!
Don’t use fireworks around pets – Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns and/or trauma to the face and paws of curious pets, even when used far away from them! It’s best to leave fireworks displays to professionals who know how to handle them safely.

At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we understand how important it is for you to keep your pet safe during this holiday season! We are here if you need advice or support on how best to protect your furry friend from potential danger this Fourth of July!

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Summertime Dog Grooming: Benefits and Tips

As the hot and humid summer months approach, it’s important to keep up with your dog’s grooming routine. With the right care, you can help keep your pup cool and comfortable during the summer months.

Why is Grooming Important in the Summer?
The hot weather can have a particularly negative effect on dogs’ skin and fur. Dogs with thick coats are especially vulnerable to overheating, so it’s important to groom them regularly. This includes brushing their fur to remove dead hair and mats, as well as trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth for oral hygiene. Regular grooming also helps prevent skin infections caused by bacteria or parasites that thrive in warm climates.

Grooming Tips for Different Breeds
The type of grooming required in summer depends on the breed and type of coat. For dogs with thick coats, such as German Shepherds or Huskies, it is recommended to give them a “summer cut” to reduce shedding and keep them cool. For short-haired breeds like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds, regular brushing is essential for keeping their coat healthy. When bathing your dog in the summer months, use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs that won’t dry out their skin or strip away natural oils from their coat. Make sure to rinse thoroughly after each bath to avoid any soap residue that could irritate your pup’s skin.

Other Grooming Considerations
In addition to regular baths and brushing, there are other things you can do to ensure your pup stays healthy during the summer months. Trim your dog’s nails regularly so they don’t get too long or snag on anything while playing outside. Cleaning your pup’s ears regularly will also help prevent ear infections caused by moisture buildup due to humidity or swimming in lakes or pools. Finally, brush your pet’s teeth at least twice a week for optimal oral hygiene throughout the year!

Scheduling Your Next Appointment
At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we understand how important it is for pet owners to keep up with their pup’s grooming routine during the summer months – that’s why we offer convenient scheduling options for all our services! From nail trims and baths to full-service grooming packages – we have everything you need to keep your pup looking great all year long!

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5 Ways to Support Your Dog During Memorial Day Weekend Celebrations

Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner, and while it’s a great time to celebrate with friends and family, this holiday can be traumatic for our furry friends. The loud fireworks, crowded spaces, and untraditional food or debris can make our dogs anxious and sick. However, with a little pre-planning and care, you can keep your pups happy and healthy during this exciting weekend. In this blog post, we’ll go over five tips for supporting your dog during Memorial Day Weekend celebrations.

Keep them on a consistent routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and changing their routine can cause them to feel stressed and anxious. Stick to their usual feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule even during the holiday weekend. If you’re going to be out for an extended period, ensure they have a comfortable and safe environment to relax, such as a crate or a quiet room.

Create a calming environment
Fireworks and loud noises can be terrifying for dogs. Provide them with a safe space to retreat to when things get too overwhelming. Whether it’s a cozy corner or a crate with comforting blankets, make sure they have a designated area where they can feel secure. Additionally, consider leaving them with a white noise machine or soft music to help drown out the noise.

Keep toxic things away
Chocolate, alcohol, and grill scraps are among the things that are toxic to dogs. Ensure that these items are kept away from your pup’s reach. If you’re hosting a barbecue or gathering, make sure your guests are aware of the danger and keep food or drink out of your dog’s reach.

Exercise and playtime
Physical exercise and playtime can help your dog release pent-up energy and keep their anxiety in check. Take them for a walk or a run in the morning before the holiday festivities begin. Play their favorite game or engage them in some simple obedience training. It’ll help them relax and enjoy the celebrations better.

Stay informed and prepared
Lastly, stay updated on any events or fireworks around your area so that you can prepare your dog accordingly. Some dogs may require medication or intervention in extreme cases. Be mindful of your pet and maintain constant communication with your vet on the best approach to handling your dog’s anxiety.

With these five tips, you can ensure that your furry friend has a happy and healthy Memorial Day Weekend. Preparation, communication, and care are the keys to helping your pet cope with this exciting yet terrifying holiday. At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we offer daycare and boarding services to make sure your dogs are always cared for, even during Memorial Day Weekend. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you care for your pet.

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Does My Dog Have Seasonal Allergies?

Did you know that dogs can suffer from allergies like humans do? As much as we love our furry friends, seeing them suffering from seasonal allergies can be heartbreaking. Like humans, dogs can experience sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes during the allergy season. But did you know that itchy skin is also one of the most common symptoms associated with dog allergies?

What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies for dogs?

Itchy skin, either localized (in one area) or generalized (all over the body), is the most common symptom associated with allergies in dogs. Some other symptoms to watch out for include:

• Scratching and biting their coat or skin
• Red, inflamed or infected skin
• Excessive shedding
• Compulsive paw licking
• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Facial discomfort (from nasal congestion)
• Coughing, wheezing

It is important to note that some of these symptoms could also be caused by other conditions, so make sure to take your dog to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

What causes seasonal allergies in dogs?

Dogs can be allergic to a variety of things, including pollen, dust mites, and mold. Seasonal allergies in dogs are often caused by environmental allergens, such as grass and tree pollen, that are more prevalent during certain times of the year.

Can seasonal allergies be treated in my dog?

Once your dog has been diagnosed with seasonal allergies, your veterinarian can recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment options may include:

• Antihistamines
• Steroids
• Allergy shots
• Medicated shampoos and conditioners

You can also try to alleviate your dog’s allergy symptoms by preventing exposure to allergens. Here are some tips:

• Wipe your dog’s feet, legs, and belly after going for a walk
• Bathe your dog regularly with a hypoallergenic shampoo
• Vacuum and dust your home frequently
• Find alternative indoor play options during peak allergy season (similar to doggie daycare)

It is important to remember that seasonal allergies in dogs can be managed with proper treatment and preventative measures. With a little extra attention and care, your furry friend can be just as happy and healthy as over – year round!

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Why Dog Bite Prevention Matters and What You Can Do

April is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, a time to raise awareness about the importance of preventing dog bites. Every year, millions of people are bitten by dogs, with children being the most common victims. Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional harm, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them.

Be considerate in your approach.
When approaching a dog, it’s important to be aware of their body language and respect their space. Never approach a dog head-on or from above its head. Dogs may become uncomfortable or scared if they feel threatened or cornered. If you are unsure how a dog will react, ask the owner for permission before petting them. When interacting with a dog, always move slowly and calmly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them.

Teach children early.
It is important to teach children how to interact safely with dogs. Encourage them to ask an adult before petting any unfamiliar dogs and remind them never to approach a strange dog without supervision. Children should also be taught not to tease or pull on a dog’s tail or ears as this can lead to aggressive behavior from the animal.

Seek guidance from an expert.
At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we understand the importance of keeping your pet safe and happy in our care. Our team is trained in canine safety protocols and we provide plenty of opportunities for socialization with other pets in our facility. We offer obedience classes that can help you learn how to properly handle your pet and prevent aggressive behavior from developing in the first place.

National Dog Bite Prevention Month is an important reminder that we all have a responsibility when it comes to keeping our furry friends safe from harm. By following these simple tips and taking advantage of resources like Green Leaf Pet Resort, you can help ensure that everyone has a pleasant experience when interacting with dogs!

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Lure Course at Green Leaf

Ready, set, run! We’re excited to announce that our brand new LURE COURSE is open! If your dog frequently gets the zoomies, loves to romp around, or chase leaves – they will be ecstatic to learn that we now offer Lure Coursing! One of the fastest-growing canine sports, the Lure Course is a unique activity that stimulates a canine’s chase instinct. If you attended our Canine Carnival in June, then you may have had the opportunity to try this fantastic service! By popular demand, we’ve decided to make it a full-time service. Everyone can now try their paw at Green Leaf Pet Resort.

What is a lure course, exactly? A lure machine uses a pulley system to run a white, artificial lure along a line – simulating a small animal running across the ground – activating your pup’s prey drive. The track can be arranged in numerous patterns to increase the difficulty and simulate the unpredictability of a real hunt. Starting back in the 1970s, this sport was originally designed for sighthounds who, unlike most breeds, hunt using their eyes rather than their noses. While breeds such as greyhounds and whippets have an advantage, the sport has since opened up to all breeds. Dogs can run full tilt in a safe and enclosed environment.

This activity engages both your dog’s body and mind, making it an all-encompassing form of exercise. By provoking their hunting instincts, the participant is driven to follow the “prey” while it zigs and zags across the field. In the endeavor to catch their prize prey, more strength and endurance is used than in many other forms of exercise, increasing their stamina in the process. Little else matches the feeling of satisfaction when the lure is caught and the chase is done. The lure course takes your fur babies’ zoomies and gives them a purpose. High-energy pups will especially love this fast-paced activity that is sure to tucker them out.

While the physical benefits are clear, there are mental benefits as well! By engaging the instinct to chase, the lure course can improve a pooch’s ability to focus. This sport builds confidence in your furry friend. As a great form of enrichment, this rewarding run releases endorphins, and dopamine, leaving your dog happy and content (all while creating a stronger bond between you and your pup)! The Lure Course is such a thrilling activity that achieves much of what we, at Green Leaf, look for in an activity for our dogs. Adding this new all-encompassing form of enrichment as a service to share with our guests was a no-brainer. Ask a member of our concierge team how to get started with your pup’s evaluation today!

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Precautions for a Safe Howl-O-Ween

by Christina Fontaine

Halloween is just around the corner (where did the time go), and with the upcoming commotion of families at your doorstep, we thought it would be useful to discuss some of the insurances you can establish to help manage your dog’s anxiety throughout the evening. Since last year’s Howl-o-ween didn’t get the celebration it deserved, we expect to have an influx of eager trick-or-treaters this October. And depending on your pooch’s mannerism, we have several different options to keep your sweet pup-kin happy and stress-free:

1. The first option will work well for a dog who’s semi-social, or at the very least used to interacting with others. Portion out some samples of your pooch’s favorite special treat. We recommend either chicken breast, carrots, cheese, peanut butter, or training treats. The type of treats you choose may vary based on how busy your neighborhood tends to be. If you expect a higher volume, something low calorie would be a better choice. When the doorbell rings, be sure to give your dog a treat each time you answer the door. This will help develop a positive association with the sound of the doorbell knowing.

2. If your dog is the type to bark loudly when visitors are out the door, you might consider simply leaving a bucket of candy at the door for people to take from as they please. For even better assurance, you can post a sign on your door asking people to not knock or ring the bell due to an anxious pet. Periodically check the candy basket throughout the night and refill as you see fit. When you’re out of candy, update your sign to say as much so any straggling guests will know to move to the next house.

3. If you don’t mind the sound of the bell (or if you don’t trust people to moderate candy-taking on their own), you could also create a safe, separate space in your home for your pup to spend the evening in. Turn on the tv to help mute any rings or knocks, and try to have this space be as far away from the front door as paw-sible. Keep your furry friend occupied with a chewing bone, toys, and specialized attention or playtime throughout the night.

4. While the first three methods may work for some canines, you might be thinking that none of those will work for you. If that’s the case, then this last suggestion will likely be your bet! Maybe your dog is highly anxious, or maybe you just have your own Halloween party to attend and don’t want to leave them home alone. Either way, Green Leaf Pet Resort has your answer. With half-day rates as low as $30, Green Leaf’s doggie daycare will provide your loved ones with all of the attention, care, and play they deserve at an affordable rate. To book you pup’s staycation, cal (844) LUV-DOGS today. But most importantly, have a spook-tacular day!

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Pawsome Ways to Beat the Heat

“Pawsome Ways to Beat the Heat”
by Christina Fontaine

The sun this summer has been downright brutal at times. And to quote the famous TikTok sound that’s been stuck in my head for the past several weeks, we’re in the thick of it. With records indicating an average 3° temperature increase compared to previous years ¹ , it’s safe to assume that this August will be a scorcher. And if that wasn’t enough to make you want to lower your AC a few degrees, it’s about to be hurricane season, which inevitably means: prepare for frizzy hair days. That’s right guys, Mug City. With all that heat and humidity in the air, what does that mean for our furry friends/family?

As the air continues to get warmer, so does the ground. Concrete or asphalt walkways retain the heat and may even become too hot to walk on without proper foot/paw protection. To make sure your pup’s paws are properly protected during walks, The Farmer’s Almanac recommends testing the pavement by placing your hand on the ground. If you can’t keep it there for at least five seconds, then it’s likely too hot for your dog too. In these cases, you can either walk your dog in the grass, find a spot with some shade, or pop on a pair of doggie boots to keep those paws from blistering in the sun. ²

It’s always a good idea to keep fresh water on hand during walks, as dogs can overheat much quicker during these months. Note: pups with flat faces are particularly sensitive to heat stroke since they are unable to pant as efficiently. Be sure to keep a closer eye on panting behaviors if you have a pug or bulldog. Frozen blueberries or treats on hand are great ways to reinforce positive training, as well as help, keep them cool. And when it comes to that summer fur cut, The ASPCA recommends trimming a dog’s coat as opposed to outright shaving it. Believe it or not, but your dog’s fur will actually protect their skin against burning and overheating, whereas if they’re fully shaved they lose that protection.

Now, I know what you’re probably thinking. If it’s going to be so hot, how can I make sure my dog enjoys the summer safely? With many beaches and boardwalks across the state banning dogs, it’s becoming increasingly harder to find public spaces that allow our furry companions some time to relax. Luckily, Green Leaf Pet Resort has the solution.

They understand the importance of keeping our dogs active in a secure, supervised environment. With their state-of-the-art indoor aquatic center, your pup will have over 3,000 square feet of temperature-controlled fun. Not only is swimming a recreational activity, but it’s also great for exercise as well! Swimming is known to: improve muscular strength and tone without stressing bones and joints, work cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as improve your pet’s mental wellbeing. Even if your dog isn’t a born swimmer, Green Leaf Pet Resort offers “Doggie Paddle Lessons” from their specially trained professionals.

So give us a howl at (844) LUVDOGS and book your pet’s first swim today! Your dog
will thank you.

¹https://www.njweather.org/monthly-summaries
² https://www.farmersalmanac.com/15-ways-to-keep-your-dog-safe-happy-hydrated-this-summer-21706

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Pet Grooming: More Than Just a Haircut

That’s right, it’s officially Springtime. Not that we’ve had a particularly cold winter this year, but even if you haven’t encountered the familiar build-up of dreaded yellow dust on your car just yet, you’ve probably noticed your dog is shedding a bit more than usual. Okay, more than a bit. Your pooch is quite literally getting rid of their winter coat(s), or maybe they’ve been on one too many quarantine hiking trips and it’s time for a trip to the groomers. Either way, it’s not something you should skip out on. “Grooming is as important as bringing your pet to the vet for regular checkups,” says Animal Care Technician Lauren Lakritz. Though it may be tempting to simply give your dog a bath yourself, a professional will be better equipped with the tools and expertise to spot any health concerns that may be hiding underneath the fur. They will check your pet’s eyes, ears, and skin for cysts, blemishes, and infections.

While most humans get haircuts simply to look nice or keep up with appearances, dog grooming is an important part of keeping your furry friend healthy. More than just your pup’s improved smell (we all know those rascals can work up a lot of stink during playtime), it’ll also restore your dog’s coat shine, improve skin health, reduce the chance of ear infections, and provide early detection or treatment for fleas and ticks. Establishing a good relationship with a groomer early in life for dogs is paramount to make them feel safe and secure during the grooming process. Still, with so many options these days, how will you know who’s the right groomer for your fur baby?

At Green Leaf Pet Resort, we offer a variety of professional grooming services from luxury “pet-i-cures” to massages. We even provide hypoallergenic baths for the sensitive skin pups out there. Most importantly, our staff is specially trained to accommodate dogs of all temperaments, so you can rest assured that even shy fur babies will leave feeling pampered and fur-bulous. While here, your dog’s paws are in good hands. Besides, a healthy coat and neatly trimmed nails make for a happy, well-behaved dog. And hey, you might finally get a break from vacuuming the excessive shedding for at least a day or two.

We all want the best for our pets, so save yourself the hassle and treat your dog to a luxury day at the spa. Here at Green Leaf Pet Resort, we pride ourselves on being their home away from home. Visit our website for more information, or connect with one of our specialists over the phone today for a custom quote. It’s the leash we can do.

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Halloween Safety Tips

Stash the goodies! We all know that chocolate is dangerous to consume for dogs and cats, but other candies can be dangerous too. Some sweets contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which even in small amounts can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, subsequent loss of coordination, and seizures. Tinfoils and candy wrappers can be hazardous if swallowed. (If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the SPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435.)
Decorate, yet keep it safe! If you’re getting into the Halloween spirit, make sure to double-check your decore for safety hazards. Jack-O-Lanterns are a festive staple, but can easily be knocked over with an open flame or become a snack! Make sure all cords are out of reach or taped to the floor away from playful, teething puppies. Elevate candles from curious kids!
Keep calm and haunt on! Having a barrage of strangers knocking on the door can be confusing and stressful for some pets. Make sure they’re in a secure, safe environment away from stressful stimuli that may cause them to dark out of an open door. Never leave your pet unattended in the yard! If you’re looking for peace of mind, Green Leaf offers a stress-free alternative for pups at home during the holidays with daycare, day-stay, and boarding options.
Make sure they say yes to the dress! Halloween costumes can be a fun way to include your pet into your holiday plans, but make sure they enjoy it first! Wearing a costume can be very stressful for some dogs, sometimes even restricting their movement, breathing, hearing, or sight. Never leave your dog alone in costume. It’s important to know if your dog is comfortable and confident in their costume. Some dogs just prefer their birthday suit!
ID’s, please! In the unfortunate event that you and your pet are separated for any reason, it’s crucial to make sure they have ID! Use Halloween as a reminder to make sure your pet’s identification is up to date with the most current information. If for any reason you and your pet are separated, identification increases the chances that they will be returned to you.

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