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For pet owners, their pets are more than just animals. They are part of the family. There are about 85 million houses with pets, according to the American Pet Products Association. In addition, many of us take our animals with us on vacations and trips. So not only do we need to find local pet care for their everyday needs and possible emergencies, but possibly a place where they can be pampered. You may even want to find a place that will watch them for some amount of time while you are not home.

Know What Your Pets Need

When you take your pet on vacation, it means a new environment for your pet to play in. You may also want a local pet care option to provide daycare for your pet. You can provide the ability for your dog to socialize with other dogs, exercise, and even play games. You and your family know your pup better than anyone and know what type of care they need. It is helpful to find a local pet care option that can provide your furry friend with everything it needs.

What to Look For

You want to find a place that has plenty of room to run and play. You want playrooms that are climate controlled so that your dog is comfortable regardless of the outside temperature. It is essential that the rooms are cleaned and disinfected to ensure your pet stays safe at all times.

You also want to ensure there are adequate amounts of supervision at all times. Preferably, you want your pet to be supervised by those who have trained appropriately so that your pup stays safe when not with you.

Additional Pampering

Additional pampering could include a special treat for your dog to enjoy. Perhaps you could look for a place that provides grooming if that is something that interests you. There is nothing like a nice fresh cut, and your pet will feel the same way.

Your pets deserve some time away, too. It is a nice treat to provide them with a safe space to play with other pets. You can enjoy time relaxing and enjoying the sights while you are on vacation, knowing that your pet is safe and happy.

Dog boarding is a great way to have someone watch over your dog when you can’t. But there are some things every owner should know before they leave their pet behind. Read on for some helpful insights and tips.

1. Pick the Right Boarding Facility

If you want to make sure your dog is well taken care of, ask the kennel staff every question under the sun (within reason, of course). You can do this before dropping it off or during drop-off, either way will work. Find out if they are trained in first aid for dogs and what kind of professional experience they have.

2. Find a Place That Takes Dogs of All Sizes, Shapes, and Personalities

Dogs need space to run around and explore safely to stay healthy and happy while away from home. If the kennel only has room for small dogs, your big guy may be miserable. The same goes for dogs that typically get along with other pets: if they need to be isolated, the experience won’t be good. Look for a kennel that can accommodate all kinds of dogs, and make sure they know your pet’s personality ahead of time.

3. Find Out If the Staff Is Willing to Go Above and Beyond for Your Dog

If your dog needs medication, food, or other special care, make sure they will help before you drop him off. If they get separation anxiety, ask them what they can do to accommodate their needs, so they don’t go crazy while there. If your dog gets along with other dogs, ask if they can keep them in a playgroup instead of an isolation pen. Ask what kind of activities and services they provide. It is important that your dog gets plenty of exercise and attention.

4. Take Your Dog for a Trial Run

If possible, take your dog to the kennel before leaving it there. See how they do in these new surroundings and feel what it will be like while you are gone. If your pet doesn’t seem happy at the facility after the first time, don’t worry: they might just need a few visits to get used to it.

5. Leave Contact Info With Your Pet’s Doctor

If there is an emergency and the kennel has trouble reaching you, they will call your vet for assistance. Make sure their number is on file at your dog’s doctor’s office so that you can be contacted during any medical distress or unusual circumstance.

Dogs are among the most popular pets in the United States, with over 38% of households having one. Although loved and cared for, they will need to be boarded at some point. Dog boarding can be a wonderful experience if you pick the right place and leave your pet’s needs up to the professionals that work there.

So you’ve booked your trip or you’re all packed for that conference. However, you’ll also need to ensure that your cat is well taken care of. Leaving your cat with a boarding service, whether it’s your first time or your twentieth, can be worrisome. You may wonder about how you’ll know whether your cat is safe, happy, and not too lonely while you’re gone. Those feelings are completely normal, but it’s also good practice to ask your cat boarding service these important questions so that you can relax on your trip.

What Are the Requirements to Book?

This is the first question you ask and is also one of the most important. You will need to know how far in advance you need to book your cat’s stay. Additionally, ask whether or not they require proof of vaccinations, and if so, which ones are required. You’ll need to know whether or not you need to bring your pet’s food. Knowing these things in advance can help you be prepared for your cat’s stay.

How Will My Cat Be Housed?

Knowing how big your cat’s space will be, how close he or she will be to other cats and animals, and how often their areas are cleaned is very important to know. The boarding service you choose should have enough space for your cat to relax and explore, shouldn’t be too close to other kinds of animals (like those rascally dogs), and should be cleaned at least once daily. Finding out exactly how your cat will be housed will go a long way in making you feel better about the cat boarding service you choose.

What Kind of People Are Staffed?

You’ll want to inquire as to how often they interact with the pets they board and be sure to specify whether or not your cat needs a lot of human attention, or would rather be off exploring on their own. A well-run cat boarding service will employ people who are passionate about delivering quality animal care, so you can feel good about leaving your pet with them.

Just In Case

Finally, you’ll want to ask what your cat boarding service does in the case of an emergency. Are they comfortable with calling a vet, just in case? If so, do they also make sure to contact you if something were to happen? Ask your boarding service what they need from you just in case something happens, and you aren’t available. Knowing that your cat is safe in an emergency will help you sleep more soundly while you’re away.

Asking these critical questions will help you be prepared for your trip and better ensure you choose a quality cat boarding service for your furry family member.

About 85 million people have pets and many of them are dogs. Dogs need exercise to stay healthy. Finding the right exercise routine for your pet will benefit their health. Here are some great tips.

Take Your Dog Outside to Play

Take your dog outside for a walk in the neighborhood or a local park. You can get a dog’s leash and train your dog to walk with you. Walking one or two miles is good exercise for both of you. Playing in a safe outdoor area with no traffic is the safest way to give your dog exercise. This is a good place to take your pet for outdoor play.

Walking or running in the park or in the neighborhood is also a great option. You should walk your dog for about one hour daily for the most benefit.

Obedience Training for Exercise

The best way for you to help your pet exercise outdoors is to train them yourself or take a class. A class can teach your dog how to fetch a ball, sit when necessary, and lay down. When outdoors, this can keep them from running into the road or street. You can train them to fetch a ball and listen to your commands on the beach or in the park. There are yoga classes, agility classes, and even swim classes for super active dogs. Taking classes to train your dog and improve their health has many benefits.

Types of Outdoor Exercise for Dogs

There are many ways to exercise your dog outdoors. If you like to hike, most states have outdoor hiking trails to take your dog. Going to the beach or state park to swim is another way to exercise your pet. Some runners find running with their pets to be a good workout. This is not for all dogs, but some active dogs do well with this exercise. Before starting any exercise, check with your vet to learn more about what is right for your pet.

Practice Safety When Exercising Your Pet

Practice outdoor safety when you exercise your dog outdoors. Always walk them on a leash and do not leave them alone. Never leave them outdoors alone unless they are contained or leashed. Train them to learn simple commands to sit, lay, or fetch. Take frequent breaks for water and rest when starting a routine.

Taking the time to have outdoor playtime with your dog is important and beneficial to both of you. With these tips, you will have quality exercise and play. Remember to stay safe and have fun.

If you are a dog owner, you will have to board your beloved pets at some point in your life. It can be difficult to know what to expect when taking your dog to a dog boarding service. There’s a lot of information about dog boarding, but not everything is helpful. In this article, you’ll read about some myths related to dog boarding reservations.

Myth 1: Taking Your Dog for a Boarding Reservation Means You Don’t Care About Them

This one is really unfortunate. The truth is that not everyone can be with their dogs 24/7. Many people work long hours and have other responsibilities in their lives. They still love their dogs enough to provide them with the best care for however long they need to leave them behind. For example, if your dog has separation anxiety from you, it’s unlikely that they will do well being crated or kenneled by themselves without any contact from you during the day while you are at work.

When most people think of leaving their pets home alone, they picture a lonely figure curled up in the corner of the house. This can really play out that way sometimes, but it doesn’t have to. If you’re going to be away for several days at once, consider looking into dog boarding services.

When you take your pup there, they’ll stay with other dogs who are also staying for short/long-term care. They will get plenty of exercise every day, playing with them outside if weather permits and romping around inside when it’s too cold or wet outside. Your dog won’t feel alone because they’ll have plenty of companionship from the other pups in the group.

In addition to keeping your pup active by giving them an outlet for their energy, the staff is always happy to take them on walks around the neighborhood. They also organize events where your dog can enjoy outdoor play.

Myth 2: All Dog Boarding Facilities are the Same

Some local dog boarding facilities are better than others. A common complaint about dog boarding is poor hygiene, so paying attention to details is important. Size is another consideration when looking for good boarding services for your pet. Several factors determine what kind of facility you’ll want to choose: the number of dogs allowed in each room, sanitization practices, and feeding are the three significant concerns among many. Ensure that you have an understanding of your dog’s needs before choosing a boarding facility. The last thing you want is for your furry friend to stay in a place where they aren’t happy and safe.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Bring Everything from Home

While it is true that most boarding facilities will have food bowls, toys, and other items needed by your dog during their stay, bringing some of these things can help make your pet more comfortable and less stressed. If your dog loves certain treats or toys, it can bring a sense of familiarity with them in their time away from home.

Myth 4: Dog Boarding Reservations are Not for Older Dogs

Your dog’s age shouldn’t stop you from taking advantage of boarding services if you need to leave town or go on vacation. On the contrary, it may be even more beneficial for older dogs to spend some time in a boarding kennel.

Suppose you have an aging dog dealing with health issues or mobility problems. In that case, it’s especially important that they receive plenty of exercise every day to keep their joints and muscles working well.

There’s no reason to feel bad about making dog boarding reservations and leaving your pup there. Remember, they will be well cared for, have plenty of social time with other dogs, and get plenty of exercise every day!

If you have any questions regarding dog boarding reservations today, contact Eastern Shore Pet Resort. We are committed to giving your pets the best care possible while you are out of the house! Schedule your reservation today by calling 302-777-PLAY (7529).

When you want to go on vacation, you may be concerned about what to do with your four-legged best friend. Since not all vacation destinations allow you to bring pets, you need to find a solution that will allow your dog to be well cared for so that you won’t have to worry. Thankfully, local pet boarding is an option that both you and your dog can feel good about.

Why Choose Pet Boarding?

Although some people think local pet boarding facilities aren’t as good as having an at-home sitter, the truth is very different. In fact, some even function as resorts focused on giving your dog the best experience possible.

Many pet boarding facilities are specially designed to be a home away from home for your pets. It’s like their own version of a vacation! Here you can trust that they will have a comfortable place to sleep, lots of space to run around and play, and their favorite food to eat.

Because of amenities like this, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest, knowing that your dog is having a good time of their own.

How to Prep Your Dog for Boarding

Before taking your dog to your local pet boarding location, make sure that they have all of their shots and are up-to-date with their flea and tick treatments. Many of these locations require this to ensure that all pets are healthy when they come in.

Be sure to contact your boarding location a few weeks before your trip to ensure that you know what needs to be done. This should give you ample time to update any shots or treatments before you bring your dog in.

Secondly, make sure that you bring along your dog’s favorite foods, any medications, health documents, and an emergency contact list. You may also want to bring some of their favorite toys and you could even give them an unwashed shirt of yours to sleep with so that they feel more comfortable being near your scent.

Enjoy Your Vacation While Your Dog Enjoys Theirs

We all need time away sometimes, and this is true even for dogs! If you want to plan a trip this summer but are unsure about what to do with your four-legged friend, consider local boarding. Local boarding can give you both the opportunity to relax and make the most out of your respective vacations. (You’re sure to get lots of kisses afterward.)

Dogs love company. If left unaccompanied for long periods without exercise, dogs can get stressed. Unfortunately, you cannot always keep your dog company. If you have an erratic schedule or you travel out of town often, you may not be able to tag along with your dog everywhere you go. Fortunately, there is a solution –- doggy daycare. At a reputable dog daycare, your pup will be well taken care of. But before you enroll your dog in a doggy daycare, you may have some concerns. Read on to learn important questions you should ask before enrolling your dog in a dog daycare.

1. What Kind of Experience Does Your Staff Have?

First, you should inquire about the staff’s experience handling dogs. Familiarity with basic care and safety protocols should be a prerequisite for all members of staff. Ideally, you will also want to enroll your dog in a doggy daycare where the staff members are knowledgeable on animal behavior, dog body language, and canine CPR.

2. What Is the Vaccination Protocol?

Dogs should be vaccinated to prevent the spread of diseases. Ideally, dogs should be vaccinated against parvovirus, rabies, distemper, canine hepatitis, and Bordetella. Inquire about the vaccination requirements to guarantee your dog’s safety.

3. What Is the Program Like?

Dogs do not like to be left unattended. They thrive on activity. At a good dog daycare, your pup will be kept occupied with lots of fun activities. Ask about the day-to-day routine at your local dog boarding before enrolling your dog.

4. How Do You Respond to Emergencies?

While nobody likes emergencies, they are inevitable. A good pet daycare should be prepared for emergencies when they strike. For instance, in the event your dog gets injured, staff members should be able to administer first aid.

5. What’s the Dog-to-Staff Ratio?

Taking care of several dogs is not easy. Staff should not get overwhelmed taking care of multiple dogs. Ideally, look out for a doggy daycare with a dog-to-staff ratio of 15:1 or better.

6. Can I Monitor My Dog?

While a well-staffed pet daycare may guarantee your pup is well taken care of, you may still want to monitor your pet. Ask if you will have access to a webcam that will allow you to check in on your pet any time.

7. How Are the Dogs Grouped?

Not all dogs get along with each other. To ensure the safety of your dog, professionals usually group dogs based on factors such as size, age, and even temperament. For example, big dogs are generally separated from small pups.

8. How Do You Deal With Indiscipline?

Sometimes dogs misbehave, and they need to be kept in line. The doggy daycare should not use stern measures to discipline your dog. Ideally, look out for a daycare where the staff uses positive reinforcement to instill discipline.

9. How Do You Prevent Escapes?

Losing your pet and having to put up missing posters to trace it can be heartbreaking. To prevent this, lookout for a local dog boarding with a high perimeter fence and a double gate system that prevents escapes.

10. Do You Have Any References?

Testimonials from past and current clients are a great way to assess the quality of the doggy daycare. A reputable dog boarding service will be more than glad to share testimonials of satisfied clients with you.

Ensure Your Pup Gets Quality Care

In the U.S., about 70% of apartment renters own pets. Hard-pressed for time, some of these pet owners leave their pets indoors unattended, depriving them of quality care. Do not deprive your pup of quality care and make it stressed. Keep your pup happy and energetic by bringing it down to Eastern Shore Pet Resort. We are a luxury pet resort that offers unparalleled pet care. Get in touch with us to book your reservation today.

Everyone loves to take a vacation. One of the most distressing aspects of traveling is packing the things you need. That is the same for your pooch when planning for a holiday, and you need to take it to a dog boarding. But with a little planning, you can make the process easier and less stressful. Here are some of the items to pack for dog boarding.

1. Include Your Dog’s Medication and Supplements

All pet owners want their furry friends to be healthy and happy. Your dog may require supplements and medication for joint health or to boost its immunity. A professionally-run dog boarding service is always willing to administer the prescription for you.

Make a point of leaving written instructions that explain the dosage for your pup’s supplements or medication. Ensure that the quantity is enough to outlast your pet’s stay at doggy daycare.

2. Your Dog’s Medical and Vaccine Records

Most dog boarding facilities have policies that require pet owners to provide vaccination records. Your pet must be free from contagious diseases one month before boarding. So you should include vaccine and medical records that you will present to doggy daycare.

Keep in mind that a specialist may assess your dog to ascertain it is free from diseases. To avoid disappointments, you may want to contact your veterinarian to give you a clean bill of health. You can present the records to the staff at the dog boarding center.

3. You Can Carry Meals from Home

Your pup also needs to feed regularly to be happy. It is essential to maintain the same feeding habits your dog is accustomed to when taking it to dog daycare. Maintaining your regular feeding routine will keep it from feeling lonely and prevent stomach problems.

Before dog boarding, ensure you mark each package, indicating the quantity and feeding schedule. Label the containers to discern treats from regular meals. Avoid using staples for labels, as they can find their way into your pet’s food.

4. Your Pup’s Favorite Toys

Even though the dog boarding service will have toys, your pet will most likely enjoy the toys it plays with daily. When away from home, the heart can grow fonder. That’s why packing their favorite items can serve as a remainder, which averts loneliness.

Be sure to pack one or two of the items your pup loves. You may also include a personal item, such as a blanket or a shirt with your scent. It can serve as a reminder of home when dealing with loneliness.

5. Dog Collar and an Extra Leash

You will also need to carry a collar and an extra leash. It is unlikely that the collar will get lost when dog boarding. But it is always wise to have a spare in case of emergencies. You may also want to include a flat buck collar to prevent choking hazards.

Dog Boarding with the Best

It is advisable to take time to plan what you’ll pack for your furry friend before booking for dog daycare. Your pup doesn’t have to feel lonely or sad. Boarding service is usually the best option when taking a vacation. If you are looking for dog boarding services in Delaware Beaches, contact Eastern Shore Pet Resort. We are a luxury pet resort and doggie daycare and offer unmatched, quality service for you and your pet every day of the year.

It’s scientifically proven: dogs boost our mental health. Spending quality time with your pup lowers blood pressure, eases muscle tension, and helps regulate our breathing. Return the favor by looking after your dog’s emotional and physical health. Learn why it matters and what you can do to keep your dog emotionally and physically healthy.

Why It Matters

Dogs’ lives are short but precious. Like us, physical and mental health can have a direct impact on dogs’ longevity. Take good care of them, and they will likely be at your side that much longer.

Over 85 million U.S. households own a dog, cat, or other pet, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) reveals. Many of those dog-owning households view their furry friend as part of the family. Treat them accordingly. You wouldn’t leave for an adults-only vacation without finding quality, reliable child care. You should approach finding a dog boarding service the same way. They’re part of the family, after all!

Looking After Your Dog’s Emotional Health

Dogs experience joy, anger, fear, jealousy, and love. While it can be difficult to conceptualize exactly how dogs feel emotions, it may help to learn that dogs have the same emotional capacity as a human three-year-old, according to Psychology Today.

Look after your dog’s emotional health by targeting these basic emotions. Freely express your love and companionship for your dog. Help ease dogs’ fears by giving them security blankets, favorite toys, or treats to mitigate stress during difficult situations or transitions. Whenever possible, keep dogs out of high-stress scenarios. For example, avoid the park and other areas where they may potentially set off fireworks around the Fourth of July.

Investing in Your Dog’s Future with Preventative Care

In addition to looking after your dog’s emotional health, take action to keep them physically healthy, too. Like humans, dogs can tremendously benefit from preventative care. Take your dog for regular wellness checkups. Talk to a trusted veterinarian about their vaccinations, flea prevention, and any other concerns that you may have.

Help dogs get plenty of exercise by walking them regularly — remember, many dogs can swim and jog, too, if you’re so inclined — and give dogs safe bones and chew toys to help clean their teeth and maintain their dental health.

Does your dog’s companionship mean the world to you? Show your dog some love in return by doing whatever you can to ensure their physical and emotional well-being.

If your dog needs some companionship and care while you’re away on a trip or away at work, consider the Eastern Shore Pet Resort. We offer quality dog boarding services you can rely on to take great care of your furry friend. For more information about our dog boarding services, contact Eastern Shore Pet Resort today.

The 2020 National Pet Owners Survey estimated that 63.4 million households in the United States owned a dog. With more than 70% of apartment renters owning pets, it’s often difficult for families that wish to go on holiday or individuals going on business trips to ensure that their pooch remains cared for during that period.

Dog boarding services are an ideal solution when you have to leave home but cannot take your companion with you. Boarding your pet for the holidays can give you the peace of mind that your doggy is comfortable and safe throughout your stay.

In between the rush for choosing the right dog boarding service and preparing for your trip, you may overlook major red flags from the different dog kennels. Here are four common mistakes that you need to avoid to ensure your pup has a positive boarding experience.

1. Failing to Research the Dog Boarding Services

In a rush, you may fail to adequately conduct your due diligence on the different dog boarding providers. Not all pet boarding facilities are equal. You need to research the kennels ahead of time. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and follow up on the referrals provided. Check online reviews about the specific pet care center, and inspect the facility while listening carefully to your gut feeling. The closest or most affordable facility may not always be the best option for your pooch.

2. Getting the Packing All Wrong

It is normal to get anxious about how your dog will spend their time while you are away. However, ‘overpacking’ or ‘underpacking’ your doggy’s essentials can be problematic. You do not have to bring in a 40-pound bag of food to the pet daycare. Additionally, you do not want to pack for too few days of your puppy’s prescription medicine. Take time to be as prepared as possible, packing enough special dietary requirements, medications, and toys.

3. Not Planning Ahead

With too much to handle, most pet owners often wait until the last minute before making their dog boarding reservations, which can cause your pup to miss a slot at your favorite boarding facility. Most reputable dog boarding services typically have a cap on the number of dogs they admit at any given time. This means their kennels may fill up quickly, especially during holidays and summer months when most families travel. To avoid any disappointments, make your dog boarding reservation early enough.

4. Falling Behind on Your Vaccinations

It is standard practice for dog boarding services to request an up-to-date vaccination certificate for your pooch before admission. As a pet owner, you may lose track of time and fall behind on your puppy’s shots. Most facilities require that the vaccines be administered at least two weeks before for them to count. Different facilities have varying policies on wait times after booster shots. Be sure to find out about these policies before calling your vet to arrange for the vaccinations.

Dog boarding services are an excellent way to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your pet while you are away. Looking for holiday dog boarding in Lewes Beach, DE? Eastern Shore Pet Resort is happy to show you and your pooch our luxurious facilities, and why we are the best in Sussex County. Drop by with your furry friend and we will gladly give you a tour.