New Year Resolutions For You and Your Pet

With 2014 just around the corner, setting goals isn't limited to people. The start of the New Year is a great chance to get your dog on a routine they never had before but need. Here are 5 tips for goals.

1. Pick a New Activity to Do With Your Dog
• Going to start a new physical activity in 2014? Hiking? Kayaking? Research ways to incorporate Fido into the activity. More and more activities are becoming pet friendly. Just remember to keep things safe.
• Have you heard about the latest fad, Doga?
2. Set-up a Yearly to the Vet
• Does anyone really like going to the doctor? Even though your dog might cringe at going to the vet, it's important visit once a year. Preventive care is important for your pet. It's also time to ask for you to ask a professional any questions you might have. 
3. New Tricks
• Believe it or not, old dogs can learn tricks! And it helps aging pets keep their brains healthy. Think about getting a puzzle feeder, a great way to keep them thinking to get a reward for their efforts.
4. Groom Once A Day
• Brushing through your dog's fur once a day helps reduce excess fur, reduces the amount of shedding you'll find around your house (and on your couches), and helps distribute oils from skin to fur (making their coat shiny and healthy).
• Did we mention it's a fabulous way to bond?
5. Measuring Your Pet's Food
• Some people might be able to measure the correct amount of food for their dog by sight, but this can often lead to overfeeding and obesity. Invest in an 8-ounce measuring cup and use the back of the food packaging for details on the amount of food your dog really needs. You can adjust slightly as you watch your dog's energy level (an older dog's calorie needs aren't the same as a puppy).
• Don't forget you can always consult your veterinarian.

For more New Year's Resolutions, check out PetMd.

A Happy Holiday Tail

Dean was adopted this past weekend by a wonderful couple. He has two canine sisters: Daisy and Shelby. They are both rescues as well.

Dean is in great company and finally home for the holidays. Thanks to all who have shared him and given him love when you visited Hotel for Dogs.

I know he will be missed by all of his canine companions, but we couldn't have asked for a better gift this holiday season!

Thanksgiving Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe

As the holiday feast is spread out on the table, and the tantalizing smells waft through the air, your eager pup will be on the lookout for scraps dropping to the floor or offered directly from well-meaning fingers. After all, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks for everything and everyone - human and canine - in your life, and taking the time to celebrate together.

So here are five foods to keep away from your dogs, and five that are OK to share.

Foods NOT to Share:

• Bones. Despite what popular culture would lead you to believe, bones can seriously harm your dog. Not only can they lead to broken teeth, ripped up gums and tongue, but they can easily get stuck in different parts of your dog's body. A bone stuck in the throat can cause choking. Bone pieces can create blockages in the intestines and cuts in the stomach (which causes internal bleeding and possible serious infection).
• Turkey Skin & Raw / Uncooked Turkey. Turkey skin is a fatty food that can strain your dog's pancreas. And raw or uncooked turkey can contain salmonella poisoning.

• Dough / Cake Batter. Raw dough and your dog's own body heat really can cause the dough to rise in your dog's stomach. This can cause vomiting and abdominal pain. Not only that, but many raw dough and batter recipes involve eggs - there's the salmonella poisoning again.
• Onions & Garlic. Onions and garlic contain sulfides. Sulfides are toxic to dogs and harm their red blood cells.
• Beer. Yes, your dog may love beer as much as you do. But it can really upset your dog's body, and should they drink too much, cause a fever, rapid heartbeat, potential seizures, and even liver damage.

Foods SAFE to Share:

• Turkey. Never fear, the same turkey you plan to eat (cooked and no bone), is the same turkey that's safe to share with your pup.
• Sweet Potatoes. Just be sure not to give your dog bites with skin.

 

• Raw Carrots. Good for you, and good for you dog.
• Corn. In small amounts, corn can really give your dog an energy boost. Just don't overdo it.
• Apple Slices. These are another thing best given raw, without any extra sugar that comes from baking it in a pie or the like.

If you pick up a piece of food and just aren't sure, best to err on the side of safety and keep it away from your dog. To make up for it, why not give them an extra scratch behind the ear when you're both lounging on the couch relaxing? They'll still love you even if they can't eat a slice of pie.

All these safety tips and tricks were gathered from multiple sources, many which list even more foods that are safe and not safe for your dog. Feel free to check out TakePart.com and ILoveDogs.com for what's good and not good to eat.

Happy Thanksgiving!

``Hotel for Dogs Staff

Celebrate Halloween with Hotel for Dogs

UPCOMING HALLOWEEN PARTY!

Hotel for Dogs is hosting a party for the upcoming spooky holiday!

DATE: October 30, 2013

TIME: 4pm - 7pm

WHERE: The Hotel for Dogs Facility

152 Magnolia Lane * Middletown, NJ 07748

WHAT: Come prepared for fun! There will be costume contests (one for big dogs, one for small dogs), and free treats for both the dogs and humans. Meet our foster dogs, socialize with fellow pet owners, and more!

For more information, give us a call: 732-533-5370

A New Beginning for An Old Friend!

Bella came to board with us over two years ago. Her dad was going through a divorce. He was traveling a lot. She didn't fit into his life anymore. He was able to walk away from a dog that he had raised since a puppy without a second glance. He decided one day that he wasn't coming back for her. He planned to have a friend of his pick her up and bring her to the vet to be put down. By the time he came to that decision it was too late. We already loved Bella.

 

Bella is loving, loyal and obedient. When you look into her silly eyes you see her heart. She lived at our boarding facility for two years. We tossed her her tennis balls, prepared her meals, loved her and made her as comfortable as we could. We zippered up her coat when the days got cold. We held her when she was sick or sad. There were days when we felt guilty. We knew she deserved a real home. Had the right decision been made to keep her here with us? Were we being selfish? We did our best to make this a home for her while it was her only option and we waited patiently. We hoped and prayed to whoever we all pray to. We waited.

 

One day an email came through. One of our clients had unexpectedly lost their dog at a very young age. It was a horrible tragedy. A family member had reached out looking for a new companion for them because the hole in their home and their hearts from their pet's death was to large to live with. They knew it was soon, but they couldn't wait. The absence of a loving dog in the house only made the tragedy harder to bare. Did we know of a dog for them?

 

Knowing the family and what they were looking for, we knew Bella would be the perfect match. Out of a tragedy, a new beginning for Bella and healing and happiness for a family in a time of great sorrow emerged.

 

I know for me personally the first day she was gone was bitter sweet. I went on with my work and kept my head down at peace in my heart knowing she was with wonderful people who would love her, but I would be lying if I didn't tell you I didn't miss her. I held it together....until two days later when she came to visit with me with her new family. She had a new harness and a new leash. She was shiny. I knew she was freshly washed. Her owners asked questions about food and vet care. They loved her already. They wanted her comfortable and safe. She was on a blanket in the back seat and she had her very own dog seat belt. She got out and she greeted me. It wasn't her typical good morning. It was different. It was a thank you. It may have been with a tongue and a look in her eyes, but I speak dog so I recognized it and I held her. I went over a few things with her family and made plans to visit her in her new home the next day and I waved as they pulled out of the parking lot.  Then I went in my office and cried.

 

There are many dogs available out there. They are good dogs who came upon bad circumstances that they have no control over. They may not be the fanciest or the trendiest, but you will know just the way I know when you look in to their eyes.

-Jackie DeGroat

Owner

Ready for The Fourth of July? Hotel for Dogs Is!

Check Out Our July Boarding Special

One weekend isn't enough!

Celebrate the whole month of July with our Amazing Boarding Special!

 

Going away on vacation? Get a free kennel bath for your dog when they board for 5 or more days!*

 

Call us for more information and to book your appointment now:  

732-533-5370

 

*Nail Trimming, Extra brushing, & long hair dogs requiring blow drying will be extra. Valid for the month of July (2013) only.

Hotel for Dog's 3rd Year Anniversary June Boarding Special Still On-Going

Hotel for Dogs June Boarding Special - Still Available!

Welcome in the Summer with our Boarding Discount!

Going on vacation? Just need a break?

Hotel for Dogs is happy to celebrate its third year in the business! We want to share the love.

For the entire month of June, Hotel for Dogs is offering

15% off boarding/overnight stay.

Don't miss out on a great opportunity!

Start booking your summer plans now!

Hotel for Dogs June Boarding Special!

Welcome in the Summer with our Boarding Discount!

Going on vacation? Just need a break?

Hotel for Dogs is happy to celebrate its third year in the business! We want to share the love.

For the entire month of June, Hotel for Dogs is offering

15% off boarding/overnight stay.

Don't miss out on a great opportunity!

Start booking your summer plans now!

Hotel for Dogs Memorial Day Weekend Grooming Special!

Let your dog shed its winter coat and spring into summer!

We're having a grooming special this weekend: through Monday, May 27th, you'll get $10 off any double coated dogs that need a de-shedding. Just give us a call for more information or to book an appointment, 732-533-5370.

Looking forward to seeing you and your dog(s)!

Spread the Love

'Refer a Friend Deal' Always a Win!

Know someone looking for dog boarding or daycare services? Send them to Hotel for Dogs and earn ONE FREE DAY of daycare for your pup!

Send a friend to Hotel for Dogs for grooming and earn yourself 20% OFF of your dog's next grooming session!

Contact us for more information - 732-533-5370!

Dog Park Fun: Tips & Tricks

Dog Parks are a great place for your dog to romp around with other dogs, socializing and playing. To keep the experience a safe and happy one, here are some things to remember:

1. Let your dog to be unleashed.

Dog parks are an open are safe for dogs to roam around. Keeping your dog on a leash, while all other dogs are allowed to play without restriction, can cause your dog to act in a more aggressive manner. For your dog to feel the most at ease, he must be able to handle approaching dogs, and dogs approaching him, in his own natural way. This isn't something he can do while tethered to your side.

2. Healthy is Happy

Please make sure your dog is healthy when you bring him to the dog park. Are his shots up-to-date? Spayed or neutered? Still a tiny puppy? Too old to handle a playful romp from another dog? Make the experience the best for your dog by making sure they're at their healthiest, and won't find the situation too overwhelming.

3. Come Prepared for FUN Not for Tidy

A dog park is not the place to worry about dressing up and staying neat. Depending on weather situations, the season, etc., your dog is likely to be rolling around in the grass, potentially mud, or even snow. While most dogs in a dog park have probably had jumping trained out them, this isn't a guarantee, so humans are just as likely to find themselves a little dirty. Relax- bring some towels for the car and just have a good time.

4. Know Where Your Dog Is

Don't expect to let your dog go play to give you time to read or talk on your cellphone. While dog parks have fences to keep the dog area safe, there could be several situations where a particularly curious dog can find a way out. Also, should a situation appear to be going poorly with another dog, you'll want to be able to move in fast enough to calm things down. - Keep in mind that 'play fighting' is not the same as 'fighting'. Dogs think/act differently about things than humans, so try thinking like a dog. And keep an eye on him.

5. Be Nice, Have Fun, Relax

For more on dog parks, check out some of these sources:

Doggoes, APDT, the local dog park regulars, etc.

Paw-di-cure Weekend Special!

This weekend HFD will be having a Paw-di-cure Special. On Friday from 2-6 and Saturday from 11-4 will will be offering $5 basic nail trims, $10 paw-di-cures that include nail trim, dremmel and pad shaving, puppy polish is an additional $5.

If your pets paws need some attention come on by and we will take care of them!

Call us for more information: 732-533-5370

Hotel for Dog's Advice: Keep Your Dog Safe in Spring

Spring is in the air - let's talk safety.

5 Tips and Tricks based on ASPCA's advice.

1. Window Screening

     Many cats/dogs unwittingly jump or fall from open windows that don't have protective screens. So while enjoying the warm spring breezes, make sure you have installed a snug and proper window screen.

2. Spring Cleaning

     While spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition, be mindful that your furry friends are curious and almost all commercially sold cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to pets. Keep them out of reach of searching paws and sniffing noses. Just be sure to read the safety instructions on the cleaning bottles, and nothing will interrupt your battle against the dust bunnies.

3. Speaking of Chemicals...

     Sprucing up the house further w/ paint and construction also includes having an increased awareness of keeping toxins from paints and solvents from your pets. They can cause irritations and chemical burns. Organize your work space so no unsuspecting paws step on fallen nails, staples, power tools, etc. If need be, confine your dog in a safe, pet-friendly room until construction is complete.

4. Poisonous Plants

     As you plant your spring gardens, be mindful of certain plants - Easter lilies, rhododendron and azaleas, etc. - which can be harmful to your dogs/cats if ingested. You can find a full list on ASPCA's website.

5. The Smallest Pests

     Be careful - spring brings back the bugs. Make sure your pet is on a year-round heart-worm preventive medication, and a flea and tick control program. Talk to your veterinarian to design a plan specifically for your dog/cat.

Spring brings back the warm weather and sunshine - stay safe and happy!

Third Year Anniversary

We are proud to be entering our third year in business. Thanks for all of the support. A small business's greatest asset is its customers. We are so blessed to have such great clients.

Thank you for your continued support. Please spread the word about our services. We will continue to serve you and to serve our community. You are family here.

~Jackie

Give Your Dog An Amazing Grooming Experience

Spring is finally arriving. Sign up your dog or cat for an amazing grooming experience at Hotel for Dogs. Welcome in the new season with a refreshed look!

Roxy did, and doesn't she look great?

For more information, check out our website: ahotelfordogs.com

Hotel for Dogs Offers Wonderful Grooming Services!

Is your dog in need of a wonderful grooming spruce-up?

Don't miss out on contacting Hotel for Dogs to reserve a grooming spot for your dog before Easter!

Contact us today! - 732-533-5370 ext. 3

Come and Play at Hotel for Dogs!

Your dog will make friends!

Let's play pirates!

Doggy kisses for all.

New Refer a Friend Deals!

Hotel for Dogs has some great new Refer a Friend Deals!

Know someone looking for dog boarding or daycare services? Send them to Hotel for Dogs and earn ONE FREE DAY of daycare for your pup!

Send a friend to Hotel for Dogs for grooming and earn yourself 20% OFF of your dog's next grooming session!

Contact us for more information - 732-533-5370!

Hotel for Dogs creates a warm and safe place for
your dog to make new friends!

5 Wintery Tips

Ashley and Cody playing in the snow. Ashley is from Pathway to Hope.

Brr... Are You Staying Warm?

Here are five tips to keep your dogs happy and healthy during these winter months.

(Advice taken from ASPCA)

1. Does your dog like to romp around in the snow? Make sure he's getting extra protein to help keep him, and his fur, in tip-top shape.
2. Never leave your dog (or cat) alone in the car during winter. A car can trap in the cold and freeze an animal to death.
3. Make sure your dog (or cat) has a warm place to sleep off the floor and away from drafty areas. Pet beds, blankets, and cushions are a great, and comfy, way to keep your dog healthy.
4. Wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when coming in from the snow. Dogs can lick harmful chemical (anti-freeze), and salt, off their paws. Paw pads are also sensitive to extreme cold, and may start to bleed.
5. You may want to keep your outdoor cats inside during the winter months - they can freeze to death, or, many slip under car hoods for warmth and are injured or killed when an unsuspecting person starts up their car. Know there are outdoor cats in your area? Consider banging on the hood of your car to chase out any hiding cats.

That's all for now. Stay happy, healthy and warm during these snowy days. Heading out on vacation? Consider boarding your dog at Hotel for Dogs! Call now!

Hotel for Dogs Valentine's Pawty King & Queen

This Valentine's Day Hotel for Dogs hosted its first Valentine's Day Pawty.

Guests brought their dogs and families to participate. Cocoa and cookies - dog and people friendly varieties - were served throughout the night. Any lucky new clients who came received coupons to put towards a day of daycare. Every dog, Hotel for Dogs client or not, got to get a free, relaxing doggie massage after being introduced to the daycare's new pet stylist, Heather Schuster!

People participated in a 50/50 Raffle to support the February Foster-of-the-Month, and, to top it all off, the winners of the Hotel for Dogs Valentine's Day Pawty King & Queen Contest were selected - each winning beautiful crowns, oodles of attention, and a gift certificate for a full-service pawdicure!

We're proud to announce the winners of the Valentine's King & Queen Contest:

Winners of the Valentine's Pawty King & Queen contest!

Crowned as the reigning King was BOGIE the Bulldog!

Crowned as the reigning Queen was HOPE the Walker Hound!

If you want to know more about Hotel for Dogs, or would like to stay up-to-date with all of our news, you can visit our website, click here to go there now, or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Our blog will also remain up-to-date, so check out the sidebar for different ways you can make sure never to miss a single post!

King Bogie Commands You Come Serve him,
at Hotel for Dogs Doggie Daycare!