As the days get warmer and summer holidays approach, many of us look forward to the vibrant and exciting fireworks displays that light up the night sky. However, for our beloved pets, these loud and sudden noises can be a source of intense fear and anxiety. At Halo House Animal Resort, we understand how important it is to keep your pets safe and comfortable during these festive times. Here are some essential tips to ensure your furry friends stay calm and secure when the fireworks start.

1. Create a Safe Haven

One of the most effective ways to help your pet feel secure during fireworks is to create a safe, quiet space for them. This could be a room in your house that is far from windows and doors, where the noise of the fireworks is least likely to penetrate. Equip this space with your pet’s favorite bed, blankets, and toys to make it as comforting as possible. If your pet is crate-trained, their crate can be a perfect retreat.

2. Distract with Background Noise

To mask the sound of fireworks, consider playing calming music or turning on the television. The consistent, familiar sounds can help drown out the sudden booms and pops that can startle your pet. There are even specially designed music playlists and soundtracks aimed at reducing pet anxiety.

3. Stay Calm and Offer Comfort

Pets often look to their owners for cues on how to react to their environment. If you remain calm and composed, it can help your pet feel more at ease. Offer gentle petting and reassuring words, but be careful not to overly coddle them, as this might reinforce anxious behavior. Your presence and calm demeanor can go a long way in soothing your pet’s nerves.

4. Keep Them Indoors and Secure

During fireworks displays, it’s crucial to keep your pets indoors. Even in a fenced yard, a scared pet might find a way to escape in a panic. Make sure all windows and doors are securely closed, and check that your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date, just in case they do manage to get out.

5. Consider Anxiety Aids

If your pet has a history of severe anxiety during fireworks, consult with your veterinarian about possible solutions. There are various options available, including anxiety wraps, calming sprays, and even prescription medications that can help your pet stay calm during these stressful times.

6. Plan Ahead

If you know that fireworks are a common occurrence in your area during certain holidays or events, plan ahead. Take your dog for a long walk earlier in the day to help tire them out, and ensure they’ve had a chance to relieve themselves before the fireworks start. For cats, provide plenty of playtime and engagement during the day to help reduce their stress later on.

7. Keep Small Animals and Birds Safe

While dogs and cats often receive the most attention, small animals and birds can also be very sensitive to the noise of fireworks. Ensure they are safely indoors, in a quiet and secure part of your home. Covering their cages with a blanket can help muffle the sound and create a more comforting environment.

At Halo House Animal Resort, we are dedicated to the well-being of all pets. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your furry, feathered, or scaled friends stay safe and calm during the fireworks season. Remember, preparation and understanding are key to helping your pet navigate these noisy celebrations with minimal stress.

For more tips on pet care or to learn about our NJ Dog Boarding Service, visit us at Halo House Animal Resort. Wishing you and your pets a safe and enjoyable summer!

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Why Chip Your Pet?
Imagine the heart-wrenching scenario of a lost pet wandering the streets, separated from its loving family. It’s a situation no pet owner ever wants to contemplate. However, the reality is that even the most vigilant guardians can find themselves facing this nightmare. Collars and tags, while helpful, can become lost or damaged. This is where microchipping emerges as a lifesaver. A tiny implant, about the size of a grain of rice, holds a unique identification number that can be scanned by veterinarians, shelters, and animal control officers. This ensures a swift and reliable method of reuniting lost pets with their owners, offering peace of mind to pet parents and a second chance at home for their furry companions.

The Halo House Approach:
At Halo House Animal Resort, we wholeheartedly endorse the practice of microchipping as an integral part of responsible pet ownership.
Our team of dedicated professionals recognizes the profound bond between pets and their families, and we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every animal entrusted to our care.

How You Can Participate:
Join us this May in celebrating National Chip Your Pet Month by taking the proactive step of microchipping your furry friend. If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your pet microchipped. Additionally, spread the word to friends, family, and fellow pet owners about the importance of this simple yet impactful measure. Together, we can help ensure that no pet is ever lost or forgotten.

As May unfolds and we honor National Chip Your Pet Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of our four-legged companions. At Halo House Animal Resort, we stand ready to support pet owners in their efforts to provide the best possible care for their beloved pets. By microchipping our furry friends, we not only enhance their chances of being reunited with us if they wander astray but also reaffirm the enduring bond that exists between pets and their devoted families. Let this month serve as a reminder of the power of love, responsibility, and the small yet significant actions we can take to protect those who bring so much joy into our lives.

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Deck the Halls… Safely!

Oh, Christmas Tree: Secure that festive pine giant! We don’t want your pet causing a tree-toppling spectacle.
Mistletoe & Holly: Opt for pet-friendly alternatives. We wouldn’t want Fido turning green during the holidays.
Tinsel-less Town: Tinsel is a no-no. Cats love it, but it can turn into a holiday nightmare. Try something less enticing.
That Holiday Glow: Keep an eye on those candles! We don’t need a pet-driven light show.

Wired for Safety

Wired Up: Hide those wires and batteries! They might look like toys, but we don’t want any shocking surprises.

Avoid Holiday Food Dangers

Skip the Sweets: No chocolates or xylitol-sweetened treats. Watch those sneaky pets eyeing the table.
Leave the Leftovers: Save the rich and spicy foods for yourself. Pets can celebrate in ways that don’t involve a trip to the vet.
Careful with Cocktails: Keep your drinks out of reach. We don’t want your furry friend experiencing a hangover.

Selecting Special Treats

Special Treats: Stuff those stockings with pet-safe goodies. No ribbons or loose parts—let’s avoid a festive trip to the vet.

Plan a Pet-Safe Holiday Gathering

House Rules: Guests, feel free to give our pets some extra love and playtime!
Put the Meds Away: Medications are a no-go for pets. Keep them locked up.
A Room of Their Own: Provide a cozy spot for your pets to escape the holiday hustle.
New Year’s Noise: Watch out for confetti and noisy poppers! Keep the pets in a safe, quiet spot during the countdown.

Let’s make this holiday season a joyous and safe one for our four-legged friends!

The post Holiday Pet Safety appeared first on Halo House Animal Resort.

To ensure the safety and well-being of your pets and family during the summer, we offer helpful tips that can keep everyone healthy and cool:

Practice basic summer safety, and never leave your pets in a parked car, even for a brief moment. The temperature inside a vehicle can rapidly rise to dangerous levels, leading to irreversible organ damage or death for your pet. Be aware of the risks and follow this guide to help a pet left inside a hot car.

Watch out for humidity, as it intensifies the negative impact of high temperatures on your pets. Animals pant to cool themselves, but high humidity hampers this process and can lead to rapid increases in body temperature, reaching dangerous or even lethal levels. Keep an eye on your pet’s temperature and take action if it exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Limit your pet’s exercise on hot days, adjusting the intensity and duration according to the temperature. Avoid exercising them during the hottest hours, and be cautious with pets more susceptible to heat-related issues, such as those with white-colored ears or short-nosed breeds. Walk your dog on grass to protect their paws from hot asphalt, and always carry water to prevent dehydration.

Fans are not as effective in cooling off pets as they are for humans, so don’t rely solely on them to keep your pets cool.

Provide ample shade and cold water whenever your pet is outside. Use tree shade or tarps that allow airflow and avoid doghouses, as they can trap heat and worsen the situation.

Help your pets cool down both indoors and outdoors. Make DIY pupsicles for dogs and provide water for them at all times. Consider using cooling body wraps, vests, or mats soaked in cool water, which can keep your pet cool for up to three days.

Be vigilant for signs of heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Look for symptoms like heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizures, or unconsciousness. Certain animals are more at risk, such as the very young or old, overweight, unconditioned to exercise, or those with heart or respiratory diseases.

If your pet experiences heatstroke, move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cool towels to their head, neck, and chest, and offer small amounts of cool water or ice cubes. Seek immediate veterinary attention.

Prepare for power outages caused by summer storms by creating a disaster plan to keep your pets safe from heatstroke and other temperature-related issues.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the well-being of your beloved pets and family during the hot summer months. Stay safe and cool!

The post Summer Heat – Dog Safety appeared first on Halo House Animal Resort.

The distribution of ticks is changing due to factors like climate change, deforestation, and the evolving patterns of deer, birds, and rodents in terms of their habitats and migrations. These changes can vary annually or even seasonally. Ticks can be found in almost all parts of the United States, including urban areas, as well as many other regions worldwide. They present a danger to both humans and pets.

Several significant tick-borne diseases affect dogs, including Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis, Bartonellosis, and Hepatozoonosis. All of these diseases can have severe health consequences for dogs, and many of them can also affect humans.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the Borrelia bacteria, which is carried by the Black-Legged Tick, commonly known as the Deer Tick. Initially associated with the Northeast and upper Midwest regions of the United States, Lyme disease is now being observed on the West Coast (Washington, Oregon, and California) and in Florida. In fact, Lyme disease has been detected in dogs across various parts of the country and even in certain areas of southern Canada. For the transmission of the bacteria to occur, the tick must remain attached to its host for about 36-48 hours, and signs of illness typically manifest around 2-5 months after the tick bite.

It is essential to thoroughly check for ticks and promptly remove them after walking in wooded areas or other grassy or shaded locations where ticks are likely to reside. In urban areas, this might include local dog parks.

Signs of Lyme disease in dogs may include fever, lameness, limping, joint pain or swelling, enlarged lymph nodes, and lethargy. Lyme disease can progress to kidney disease, which can be fatal. Unlike in humans, dogs do not develop a “bull’s eye” rash.

The diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs is usually done through blood tests. The initial test detects exposure to the tick-borne agent and assists the veterinarian in determining the need for additional testing.

The treatment of a dog that tests positive on the initial test but is otherwise healthy remains a topic of controversy among some veterinarians. When the decision to treat a dog with Lyme disease is made, antibiotics are typically prescribed for a duration of 28-30 days.

A vaccine is available for Lyme disease, along with various tick preventatives. While the duration and effectiveness of the vaccine are questioned by some, it may reduce the rate and severity of the illness if it does appear. Dog owners should consult their veterinarian to determine if the vaccine is appropriate for their pet.

Canine Ehrlichiosis

Canine Ehrlichiosis is a disease found worldwide. It is caused by several types of ticks, including the Brown Dog Tick, Lone Star Tick, and American Dog Tick. Signs of the disease include fever, poor appetite, and low blood platelets, often leading to nosebleeds, bruising, or anemia. Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after an infected tick bite. Dogs that are diagnosed and treated promptly have a good prognosis, while those that enter the chronic phase of the disease face more challenges in recovery.

Anaplasma

Anaplasma is a disease caused by a bacterium carried by the Black-Legged Tick (Ixodes). While Anaplasma can be found worldwide, two specific Anaplasma species are known to cause disease in dogs in North America:

Phagocytophilum: prevalent in the Northeast and upper Midwestern United States.
Platys: found in California and coastal states.
The signs of Anaplasma are similar to those of Lyme disease, although dogs with Anaplasma often experience low blood platelet levels leading to bleeding disorders.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is one of the more well-known tick-borne diseases affecting both dogs and humans. It is transmitted by the American Dog Tick, the Rocky Mountain Wood Tick, and the Brown Deer Tick. This disease has been identified in various parts of North, South, and Central America. Signs of the disease include fever, decreased appetite, swollen lymph nodes, joint pain, and sometimes neurological symptoms such as wobbliness.

Babesiosis

Babesiosis primarily results from tick bites, but it can also be transmitted through dog bites, transplacental transmission, and potentially contaminated IV blood. The main concern associated with Babesiosis is the breakdown of red blood cells, known as “hemolysis.” Symptoms include lethargy, pale gums, dark-colored urine, and jaundice (yellow/orange-colored skin or the whites of the eyes).

Bartonella

Bartonella is an emerging infectious disease in dogs, cats, and humans. It is also known as cat scratch disease (CSD). Most infections occur after scratches from domestic or feral cats that have been infected by fleas. CSD can occur wherever cats and fleas are found.

Hepatozoonosis

Hepatozoonosis differs slightly, as the infection occurs when a dog ingests an infected tick. This disease is not zoonotic, meaning it cannot be transmitted to humans from infected dogs. It is generally found in the southern United States. Signs of the disease include pain, reluctance to stand or move, fever, muscle wasting, and mild to moderate anemia. Hepatozoonosis is a severely debilitating disease that often leads to fatality.

How To Prevent Tick-Borne Disease

Tick-borne diseases can pose a significant risk to the health of dogs and humans. It is crucial for dog owners to have a discussion with their veterinarian to determine the most effective approach for flea and tick control.

For additional information, you can visit the American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation.

A comprehensive map displaying the prevalence of Lyme disease can be found on the Center for Disease Control website.

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Volunteering with a therapy dog can be incredibly satisfying. Therapy dogs visit various places, such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and more. They participate in therapy sessions for addiction recovery, bereavement, and even visit disaster sites to comfort victims and first responders. Additionally, they help children improve their reading skills.

However, not all dogs are suitable for this role. Being a great therapy dog requires a combination of proper temperament and dog training. It’s important to assess if your dog has the right characteristics for the job.

Does Your Dog Have The Correct Temperament

For your dog to be suitable as a therapy dog, they should be friendly with strangers from the moment they meet them. If your dog takes time to warm up to new people or shows anxiety or fear around them, then this may not be the right job for them. In fact, it may even be too stressful for them.

I had a test with a Corgi who growled at me when I went to hug him as part of the test. When I asked his pet parent, they explained that he doesn’t like being touched but can do several tricks and even ride a skateboard. However, this team was not able to pass as therapy dogs are supposed to be petted by people. A dog that growls when touched is not appropriate for therapy work.

In addition, therapy dogs should be comfortable and confident in different environments. Hospitals have various machines that beep and loud carts that may make noise down the hallways. Schools have loudspeakers and different sounds too. Therefore, a therapy dog needs to be adaptable and not easily frightened in such situations.

To determine if your dog is suitable for therapy work, you should consider their behavior in different situations. Dogs who confidently walk into unfamiliar places are ideal, while dogs who are easily startled by noises or take a while to get comfortable will require socialization and behavior modification to boost their confidence. Working with a professional, reward-based trainer can help with this. Additionally, therapy dogs must be safe and comfortable in the presence of other dogs, and should not exhibit aggression or fear towards them.

A well-behaved dog is essential for therapy work. Dogs should not pull on leashes or jump on people, and must respond to basic commands such as sit, lie down, come when called, walk nicely on leash, leave tempting items alone, and hold a ‘stay’ position. Different therapy groups have varying requirements, which may include taking classes, written tests, or passing the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test. It is important to research and choose a group that fits both you and your dog’s needs, and provides liability insurance.

You Are A TEAM

It is important to remember that you and your dog are a team when doing therapy work. As the owner, you are responsible for keeping your dog safe, healthy, and happy during the visits. Advocating for your dog and being mindful of their limitations and signs of stress is crucial. Signs of stress can include avoidance of people or places, lip-licking, yawning, turning away, whining, or barking. It is important to recognize these signs and not push your dog beyond their comfort level.

It is also important to recognize your own comfort level and not visit facilities that make you uncomfortable, as this can affect your dog as well. Therapy dogs and service dogs are not the same and do not have the same rights under the ADA. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for their disabled owners, while therapy dogs provide comfort to various populations in different facilities.

To determine if therapy work is right for you and your dog, consider if you enjoy sharing your dog with others, have time to visit regularly, have a well-trained dog, and if your dog is suited temperamentally for visiting strangers, including children and the elderly.

There are many volunteer opportunities for therapy dogs, such as nursing homes, hospitals, schools, special needs centers, libraries, bereavement groups, and addiction recovery groups.

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One of the most noticeable changes in female dogs during mating season is their increased interest in male dogs. They may become more vocal, restless, and even escape from their homes or yards in search of a mate. This can put them at risk of getting lost or injured, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area.

Female dogs in heat also experience physical changes, such as swelling of the vulva and a bloody discharge. This can last for up to three weeks and may cause them discomfort or irritability. It’s important to keep them clean and comfortable during this time, and to avoid bathing them as this can increase their risk of infection.

To prevent unwanted pregnancies, female dogs should be spayed or kept away from male dogs during mating season. Spaying not only prevents pregnancies but also reduces the risk of certain diseases such as mammary cancer and pyometra. It’s best to have this procedure done before the first heat cycle, but it can still be done afterwards.

If you have any concerns about your female dog’s behavior or health during mating season, especially if you plan to use south jersey dog boarding services, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on how to care for your dog and prevent unwanted pregnancies, as well as provide information on the benefits of spaying. As responsible dog owners, it’s crucial to be aware of these changes and provide appropriate care to prevent unwanted pregnancies and keep our furry friends healthy and happy, whether we are at home or using a dog boarding service in South Jersey.

Pet Overpopulation: Consider Spay and Neutering

It’s not uncommon for female dogs to inadvertently breed while in heat due to the powerful scent that attracts males from miles away. However, breeding and raising a litter can take a significant toll on a dog’s physical health and well-being.

Owners who choose to raise puppies must make a substantial financial and personal investment, as birthing complications and bottle-feeding may be required. Additionally, the offspring of family pets often end up in shelters, where approximately 2.7 million healthy pets are euthanized each year.

Fortunately, this number could be significantly reduced if more owners chose to spay and neuter their pets. Despite popular misconceptions, there are no health benefits to allowing a dog to have a litter or go through a heat cycle before spaying. In fact, spayed pets tend to live longer, healthier lives and fit better into their family environments.

If you’re unsure about spaying or neutering your pet, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for you and your furry companion. By taking proactive steps to address pet overpopulation, we can help ensure a brighter future for all of our beloved pets.

The post Did You Know Spring is Mating Season for Canines? appeared first on Halo House Animal Resort.

In this article, we will discuss the top spring dangers that you should consider for your dog’s safety according to Dog Day Care South Jersey experts:

Allergies

Spring is the season of allergies. Just like humans, dogs can also suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen, mold, and dust can cause severe allergic reactions in dogs. Allergies can cause itching, skin rashes, redness, and even infections. If your dog shows any signs of allergies, such as excessive scratching or licking, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Poisonous Plants

Spring is the time when plants and flowers start blooming. However, not all plants are safe for dogs. Some plants such as lilies, daffodils, tulips, and azaleas are toxic to dogs. These plants can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even death. Keep your dog away from these plants and make sure to remove them from your garden.

Fleas and Ticks

Spring is also the season of fleas and ticks. These tiny parasites can cause serious health problems in dogs, such as Lyme disease and anemia. Make sure to use flea and tick preventives regularly and check your dog’s coat for any signs of infestation.

Water Hazards

Spring is a great time for water activities, but it can also be dangerous for your dog. Rivers, lakes, and ponds can pose a risk to your dog’s safety. Make sure to supervise your dog when they are near water and use a life jacket if your dog is not a strong swimmer.

Car Safety

Spring is a popular time for road trips and travel. However, it is important to ensure that your dog is safe during car rides. Use a seat belt or a carrier to restrain your dog and prevent them from jumping out of the car window.

Heatstroke

As the temperature rises, heatstroke becomes a significant concern for dogs. Dogs can easily overheat and suffer from heatstroke, which can be fatal. Make sure to provide your dog with plenty of shade, water, and avoid exercising them during the hottest part of the day.

Spring is a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be a dangerous season for dogs. As a responsible pet owner, it is your responsibility to be aware of these dangers and take appropriate measures to protect your furry friend. Keep an eye out for the signs of allergies, toxic plants, fleas and ticks, water hazards, car safety, heatstroke, and bee stings. With proper care and attention, you and your dog can enjoy the season to the fullest.

The post Top 6 Spring Dangers for Dogs appeared first on Halo House Animal Resort.

What exactly are these impacts or differences?

Input on daily socialization/activity

It is never a bad thing to give an employee at the resort too much information. Be sure to communicate if your dog has certain social or active habits so they can have it noted for handlers. Even the slightest accommodation can make a world of difference in the outcome of your dog’s day.

Two-way communication

We all want to know if or when something is going wrong with our dog. We do not want to wait to hear about it three days later when we get back from vacation. With the great accessibility of these resorts, you will definitely hear about an incident in a short time frame.

Option to bring a familiar item along

There is a portion of dogs out there that are territorial and have items they keep close by such as a bone or a toy. If that makes even a little difference for your dog, we would be happy to accommodate an item brought along but kept in sleeping space. 

Educated and passionate trainers/handlers

Employees of animal resorts are very qualified and invested in the well-being of these animals. Many other overnight options can be less caring, at Halo House and other animal resorts, that is not the case.

The post How the Experience of an Animal Resort Helps to Relax Your Canine appeared first on Halo House Animal Resort.

This lack of proper training and socialization has a clear negative effect on the behavior of your dogs. This type of training is not only for puppies but also canines who are causing issues for their human family and their home. Training is method for creating an effective relationship with your dogs, that is built on proper communication. Not every Dog Kennel South Jersey offers these types of services here like Halo House Animal Resort offers to its customers. 

If you decide to take your dog to a training course, you can help straighten out youthful habits like the following: excessive barking, jumping on guests, and separation anxiety. All three of these habits could get worse with age, so confronting it early on opens up your possibilities. Slight tweaks could alter the direction of your dog’s behavior and improve his/her quality of life.

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