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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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!

  5. 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!

Summertime Dog Grooming: Benefits and Tips

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!

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.

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!

 

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!

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!

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

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.

Important Update Regarding Daycare

Dear Green Leaf Clients,

As the official Monmouth County Emergency Pet Facility, we have an obligation to implement protocols above and beyond the baseline. Green Leaf Pet Resort will be temporarily closing the daycare facility at our Oakhurst location from Friday September 11, 2020 through Monday September 14, 2020. It is vital for us to offer an environment in which our clients feel safe. During this closing, our daycare facility will be undergoing important upgrades to our HVAC and receiving an extensive cleaning. As always, our highest priority has always been the safety and health of our clients and staff. 

The most proactive approach to preventing the spread of Canine Cough is through education, vaccinations and employing the best protocols for disinfection and sanitation.

Dogs, like humans, may catch a cold when playing with other dogs.  A cold is an upper airway infection caused by a bacteria or a virus.  This is referred to as Canine Cough or Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis.  Symptoms most often involve a cough and/or some gagging with the possibility of spitting up some white phlegm.  Sometimes there may be some mucus dripping from their nose. Less frequently you may see some eye discharge, tiredness and lack of appetite. In a very small number of cases, a lower respiratory infection may develop such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Most often canine cough is a self-limited course and usually resolves within 10 to 14 days.  Your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic.  If your dog(s) experiences any of these potential symptoms please contact your veterinarian.  

The health and well-being of your dog(s) is our number one priority.  The Green Leaf has several systems within our HVAC system to combat microbes, such as ultra-violet lights and electrostatic sanitizing systems as well our extensive hands on cleanings protocols and disinfecting fogging protocol.

There is no developed anti-infective system that can combat airborne microbes 100%.  

Other disinfecting procedures we are following include having all employees , washing hands in between the handling of dogs, and disinfecting their shoes, and changing their clothes daily.

We want you, our dog’s parents, to be informed. Please feel free to reach out for more information on Canine Cough. We are always available for any concerns or questions you may have.

We love your dogs and only want the best for them.

Thank you,

Rachel Silverstein, General Manager at GLPR Oakhurst
Matthew Alteria, General Manager at GLPR Oakhurst

 

GLPR Oakhurst Daycare  Q+A

  • What do I do if I need to drop my dog off due to scheduling purposes? Are you offering any alternatives? Yes! Any dog that comes for daycare during the time when the daycare service is unavailable, will receive a special day-stay in lieu of daycare. This service is a private suite for your pup(s) where they will receive private one-on-one playtime with our staff.
  • What happens if my dog(s) is already boarding and is scheduled to have the daycare playtime? Any dog staying with us will spend their time having private one-one-one playtime with our staff! These playtimes involve a very active, curated experience for dogs to offer maximum play!
  • Will any other services be scheduled to close? As of right now, no. The changes that are being made to our HVAC daycare facility require us to close for a short period of time. These changes are being made only to improve the quality of your pet’s experience!
  • What if I purchased a daycare package? Can I use those? Yes!  We can redeem one of your daycare package credits for the alternative day-stay.
  • What if I purchased a boarding package? Any daycare that is included with our boarding packages will be subbed out for private plays at no additional cost!
  • What does this service cost? Is it the same price as daycare? Just like daycare, this special day stay service will be split into a half-day charge (for less than 5 hours)  or a full-day charge (for five hours or more).

An Open Love Letter for All Dog-Lovers

An open love letter to all dog-lovers:

I have witnessed many people saying I love you. Not to me or any other human. But unconditionally saying these 3 wonderful words to a dog. Yes, that’s correct; a furry, slobbery kisser on 4 legs with a tail who poops outside.

What is so compelling that when we don’t even know this creature, we immediately want to love him or her?This is a true natural wonder – wouldn’t you agree?

I am so guilty of this emotion with dogs. They all immediately steal my heart, but I am not alone.

I have come to the conclusion that there is no emotional equivalent in this world to the amazing relationship between a person and a dog(s).This bond is so immense that even when they cross over the rainbow bridge, our hurt and grief only drives us to another four-legged relationship.

Why I ask?

Is it just the release of our happy hormones and neurotransmitters? Or is it more than just a physical, if not, spiritual as well? It is from our hearts that we feel this desire, .The heart has emotions. In Hebrew the word for dog is “kelev” which means complete heart (need I say more?).

No one can ever dispute my observations. I see it each and every day at Green Leaf. Our clients love their dogs beyond belief. Our staff immediately welcomes them into their loving arms. We then get to know them on a more intimate level and its not just a job – but a loving bonding until like no other.

Aren’t we the luckiest?!

Love,

Donna Leibowitz, PharmD
Co-Owner, Green Leaf Pet Resort