The Ranch Pet Resort

Premium dog & cat boarding, dog daycare, play groups, dog & cat grooming, and more!

Healthy and safety tips

Hot Weather Reminders for Our Furry Friends

by

Summer is right around the corner, and The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wants to remind you to protect our furry friends during the hot weather. Whether you’re at home, traveling, or driving, it’s important to remember that our pets can’t cool off like we can.

Tips to Keep Your Dogs and Cats Cool During Hot Weather

Dogs pant to cool off and cats cool off by grooming themselves and releasing heat through their paw pads. We can help our pets cool off with some planning and preparation.

Here are some tips to keep your dogs and cats cool during hot weather:

  • Always provide fresh, cool drinking water
  • Only exercise your pets during cooler weather
  • Never leave your pet in a car even if you think it is not hot outside; the weather inside a car can heat up quickly in a short amount of time
  • Close blinds, shades, and curtains to cool down a room
  • Provide a cooling towel, mat, or pad for your pet to rest on or near
  • Use a fan inside but allow your dog to get relief from its cooling breeze
  • Place ice cubes or ice treats in your dog’s water or dish; these also provide fun toys for cats to play with. Since their paws absorb heat, playing with ice treats can keep your cat cool
  • Fill a shallow pool with water to play or splash around in
  • Use a mister or sprinkler for outside, cooling fun
  • Bring dogs and cats inside with air conditioning, fans, or open windows; animals can easily overheat just by lying in the sun

Signs of Heatstroke in a Dog or Cat

In the event that you think your dog or cat is overheated, be aware of these symptoms:

  • Panting in cats-cats don’t pant naturally like dogs do. In the event your cat is panting, this may be a sign that your cat has heatstroke.
  • Glazed eyes
  • Lethargy
  • Lack of appetite
  • Loss of balance or wobbly walking
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Rapidly beating heart
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Gums or tongue being exceptionally red
  • Collapsing

If you see any of these signs in your dog or cat, please contact your vet immediately. Take your pet to a cooler location, or place in front of a fan, place a cool towel on your pet, and give your dog or cat cool water but not ice water. Cool the pet slowly, not quickly, as that can be more dangerous.

For a Fun Summer Getaway for Your Dog or Cat, Consider The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

If you are looking to get away for the summer, consider sending your dog or cat to The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa. Our dog suits and cat condos are temperature-controlled to keep your pet safe, cool, and happy.

Our state-of-the-art water park offers a fun time for dogs to splash in water and stay cool. Even dogs who didn’t like water have a great time running and splashing in the pool. It’s like summer camp for your dog or cat at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

Contact us today for a stay and play for your dog or cat as we are filling up quickly!

Have a safe and fun summer and remember to keep cool!

How to Protect Yourself and Your Dog from Coyotes

by

Summer is upon us and it’s not uncommon for many of us to want to take evening strolls or early morning walks with our dogs to avoid the heat of the day.

The East Bay, especially Livermore, offers so many beautiful hiking trails right in our own backyard! Between the warm summer breezes and beautiful views, it’s only natural to want to explore our area. When we explore with our best dog pal, the adventure is even better!

But let’s remember that we are sharing this beautiful area with Mother Nature, and it’s important to protect ourselves and our dogs from coyotes.

Coyotes are native to California and sitings of these animals are becoming more common especially on hiking trails where coyotes can be found hunting for food and protecting their dens.

Most of the time, coyotes will run when they come in contact with a human, but in areas where coyotes are becoming accustomed to humans, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your dog when out and about.

Coyote Safety Precautions

The East Bay Regional Park District offers these coyote safety precaution tips:

  • Avoid hiking alone. In the case of emergency, you will have someone there to help you.
  • Be aware of surroundings and keep all senses on high alert.
  • Keep children within arm’s reach and dogs on leash.
  • Stay on trails and paths.
  • Never feed wildlife.

What To Do If You See a Coyote

It’s not uncommon for anyone enjoying Livermore trails to see a coyote. In the event you do, take the following measures:

  • Do not approach or engage with the coyote.
  • Maintain your distance.
  • Watch from afar and keep an eye on the coyote’s location and actions.
  • Remain calm.
  • Walk quickly, but do not run, from the area.

What to Do if a Coyote Approaches You

In most instances, a coyote will not approach you; if it does, keep yourself and your dog safe with the following tips:

  • Make yourself as big a possible and use loud and aggressive tones to scare away the coyote.
  • Wave your arms in constant motion.
  • Stare down the coyote. Maintaining eye contact can make coyotes uncomfortable and timid.
  • Slowly back away, but never turn your back on the coyote.

Sharing Our East Bay Hiking Trails with Wildlife

We are lucky to be able to share East Bay hiking trails with wildlife. Make sure to respect all wildlife while keeping yourself and your pet safe!

In the event of an emergency at a regional park, call 911 or the East Bay Regional Park District Public Safety line at 510- 881-1833 which is available 24/7.

For more information, visit Ebparks.org/safety.

It’s National Hug Your Dog Day! But Does Your Dog Really Like to Be Hugged?

by

April 10 is National Hug Your Dog Day, but those of us at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa know most dogs don’t like being hugged and can, in fact, stress them out. Hugging a dog is not a natural action for a dog, an in fact, it can cause a dog to feel tense, anxious, and trapped. Dogs show affection by loose body moves and by leaning into you.

The best way to show your dog you love him or her on National Hug Your Dog Day is to pet your dog on the chest, pat her on the head, or give her a good ol’ fashion belly rub!

At The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa, our dogs in doggie daycare or boarding are loved every day! For a list of fees or services, please click here. Pats and affection given daily!

National Dog Bite Prevention Week

The second week in April is also delegated as National Dog Bite Prevention Week. A great way to prevent being bitten is to be educated and aware of a dog’s propensity to bite with these tips:

  • Don’t hug a dog for the reasons mentioned above
  • Never approach an unfamiliar dog
  • Ask permission before petting someone’s dog
  • Watch the body language of a dog-avoid dogs that are tense or growling
  • Never run from a dog-whether in chase or on a “hunt,” the risk of being bitten goes up
  • Avoid touching dogs that are sleeping, eating, or protecting something
  • If a strange dog approaches, stand still with your hands to your side until it goes away
  • When meeting a dog, allow it to approach you, and offer a clenched fist
  • Avoid the face and mouth of a dog
  • Do not tug on a dog or allow children to crawl or climb on a dog. Even the most well-meaning dog is capable of biting
  • Avoid looking a dog straight in the eye
  • Never tease a dog
  • Socialize your dog
  • Spay and neuter your dog
  • Train your dog
  • Supervise children when near dogs and teach them to respect dogs and their bodies
  • Avoid moving quickly around a dog who may be startled and reactive
  • If possible, ignore a barking dog until it stops barking at you. Either remove yourself from the situation if it is not your dog or wait for the behavior to stop before interacting with the dog.
  • Never pin down, hit, or punish a dog for a natural behavior that you see as “aggressive” as doing so may cause the dog to become aggressive

Any Dog Can Bite

No one wants to believe their dog is capable of biting or causing harm or injury to anyone. But the fact remains, a dog who feel threatened, scared, trapped, or is under socialized and untrained is capable of biting.

Avoid the consequences of a biting dog by reading our tips, clicking on the links for more information, or enrolling in our behavioral training programs.

“Dogs don’t bit out of the blue. So stay safe and know the signs.”





Hoppy Easter from The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

by

It’s Easter weekend, and dogs and cats around town are gearing up for a rip-roaring good time! Some of us get to partake in the fun of running around with the kids while they hunt for these plastic bundles of candy-filled fun that we are not allowed to eat, chew on, or steal.

Some of us are looking forward to seeing people and their pets we haven’t seen since the time our people brought trees in from the wild, threw balls and strings on them and told us not to touch them. Um, hello?! We are dogs and cats! We chase balls and strings! Sigh.

If you are hosting a jolly good time or having friends over, The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa has some tips to keep us safe!

Tips to Keep Your Dogs and Cats Safe this Easter

If you are hosting an Easter celebration, you may want to keep these tips in mind for a safe, healthy, happy, and enjoyable Easter for your pets and your company.

  1. Consider putting your pets in a room or crate while you have company over. While The Ranch understands your love for your amazing pets, Uncle Henry and Cousin Linda may not enjoy LeRoy, the Rottweilers, excitement over seeing new guests. Some people may not like dogs or cats (we know, we don’t understand either), may have had a bad experience with them, or be allergic to them. If your pets are locked up in your room or crate, they will be safe from knocking into or over your guests, causing a fear-bite reaction, getting out of an open door, or being fed food or treats from a well-meaning guest.
  2. Do not feed chocolate, candy items, food with bones, hot cross buns or any food with currants or raisins in them, any foods with garlic or onions, or any foods whose ingredients may be hidden, or alcohol. These people foods can cause dogs to vomit, have an upset stomach or diarrhea, choke, or have to go to the ER for a very, very expensive treatment.
  3. Keep all tulips and daffodils away from curious pets. The bulbs and even the water in the vases can cause upset stomachs, mouth irritations, difficulty breathing, or heart problems. While these plants and flowers are gorgeous, it’s best for everyone to admire them up and away from pets.
  4. Synthetic easter grass. All of that stringy “grass” is colored with dyes and is non-digestible and can block the intestines leading to illness, surgery, or in the worst cases, death.
  5. In the event your dog does ingest something or acts ill, please contact your vet or emergency vet immediately.

Healthy Treats You Can Feed Your Pets

If you want to indulge your dog or cat this Easter season, here are some tasty, healthy treats you can feed your pet. Just do so in moderation to avoid an upset tummy.

Foods we recommend and even encourage you to feed your pets in moderation any day:

  • Cooked lean meat, fish, eggs
  • Broccoli cut into small pieces
  • Peas
  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Watermelon
  • Blueberries
  • Rice
  • Oatmeal
  • Spinach

A healthy diet is optimal for both pets and humans. When we choose to indulge in clean eating, we look and feel better! But it’s ok to indulge every now and then!

Wishing Your Family and Pets a Happy, Healthy Easter Weekend!

Family and Pet Friendly Events in Livermore this Weekend!

by

Brittany spaniel enjoying a cold popsicle on a hot day in a park. His tongue and taste buds are happy!

Is it Friday yet? It will be soon, and The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wants you to get out and enjoy family and pet friendly events in Livermore this weekend!

As a family-owned facility and pet owners ourselves, we love to support the businesses in Livermore, especially ones that promote pet friendly events.

Keep Your Pet’s Best Interests in Mind When Attending Events in Livermore

The comfort, safety, and care of our pets come before bringing them to any events, and we want to make sure the weather is not going to be too hot for our beloved pets.

The weather on Saturday is slated to reach 87 degrees at its hottest, so if you do plan on taking your pet to any of the fun Livermore events this weekend, please make sure to take the following measures:

  • Never leave your dog in the car for any period of time.
  • Make sure there is adequate shade for your pet to rest and get out of the sun.
  • Bring a water bowl and fresh water and offer frequently.
  • Stay in an air-conditioned venue if possible.
  • Avoid walking your pet on hot cement or pavement as they can burn their paws.
  • Consider keeping them at home if the weather is too warm for them. Hot weather can cause heat stroke in a dog.
  • Attend events during the coolest parts of the day-either in the morning or in the late afternoon.

Livermore’s Second Annual Summer Vendor Market

Homegrown Hops Brewery at 3000 Mines Rd., Livermore is hosting is Second Annual Summer Vendor Market. This two-day event takes place Saturday, July 29 and Sunday, July 30 from noon to 4 pm.

Here is more information from the events page:

“Saturday, July 29th, we will have Torres Tacos and Wilbur‘s BBQ. On Sunday, July 30th, we will have Marty’s joint and Oppesano pizza. For entertainment, we will have Salvage Title on Saturday and Honky Tonk Heroes on Sunday. Be sure to get there at noon to grab your table or seat early. First come first serve for seating, except for private party seating at the Trolly.

There will be water misters and shade, as well as indoor and outdoor tasting room options. You can also bring your own chair or a blanket and set up to watch the band. All while supporting a great cause by supporting small business. Games to play and entertainment both days. Vendor Spotlights coming to the FB event page.”

Little League Intermediate World Series (LLIWS) in Livermore this Weekend

Grab your mitt and ball cap and head out to the Little League Intermediate World Series (LLIWS) this weekend in Livermore. Opening ceremonies for the Little League Intermediate World Series (LLIWS) are Friday starting at 4 pm at Stockmen’s Park in Livermore.

Games will begin on Sunday, July 30 at Max Baer Park in Livermore and run until August 6th. While the kids cheer on their favorite players, the dog can enjoy his time at the Max Baer Dog Park!

Fun Event in Livermore Just For Mom and Dad!

Every now and then, Mom and Dad need a get away to unwind and relax and jam to some tunes. Almost Famous Wine Company is hosting its Jam in July Wine Party on Saturday, July 29.

Three bands will play, starting at 1:30, then 4:30, and 7:30. See their eventbrite page for all of the information, including the bands, food and beverages and more!

“Almost Famous Wine Lounge is award-winning, new tasting room and venue located on Vasco Road in the heart of Livermore’s wine, spirits and brewery district. Almost Famous Wine makes fifteen wines in diverse styles, and earned 47 top industry awards since our debut last year.”

May we recommend bringing home a bottle or two of Dog Day Chardonnay or Cabernet?

Have a Safe and Happy July Weekend with Your Family and Pet!

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is proud to support the local businesses in Livermore, and we hope you all have a safe and happy weekend.

Our Condolences to Mitchell Katz Winery

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Mitchell Katz and Mitchell Katz Winery for their tragic and sudden loss of Mitch.

Mitchell Katz Winery is our neighbor, and we feel the pain of a local family whose business is well-known in our Livermore community.

May all the memories of Mitch bring comfort and joy to a winery so popular in our Livermore neighborhood.

Do Animals Dream? What Do They Dream About?

by

Happy Dreams after a day at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

The other night my dog, Lola, was sleeping on my bed and she started whimpering. Her feet started moving in a running motion and her eyes, while shut, twitched.

I patted her gently to reassure her she was safe, and I was there to protect her. Her frantic motions and whimpering stopped without her waking up, at least to my knowledge.

Last night, my cat, Turkey (yes, we have a cat named Turkey), was sound asleep on my chest. Suddenly and without any warning to me, he jumped up, opened his eyes, and looked around. He immediately settled back to sleep with no further jumping motions.

These actions, and years of watching my many animals and fosters make motions when they sleep, made me question if animals dream like humans do, and if they do, what do they dream about?

Mammals Do Dream During REM

According to an article in Psychology Today, mammals do dream during periods of REM sleep, our deepest sleep cycle. REM, Rapid Eye Movement, allows for vivid dreams and occurs during the end of the sleep cycle (source).

If your dog or cat is experiencing twitching sensations, it is in REM sleep and dreaming about a sensation it experienced during wakefulness.

So, the dog moving its legs in a running or swimming motion is very likely chasing the ball you threw it, re-enacting the swim it took, or possibly running from something frightening.

In my case, my dogs’ whimpers may have been from a trauma she suffered before we adopted her just a few months ago.

Turkey jumped in fear of something, and for Turkey, that something could be his own shadow, as he really is a scaredy cat.

Animals Dream Based on Their Sensory Factor

Daniel Graham, Ph.D. explains that animals dream based on what senses they use most often. Cats, Dr. Graham said, explore the world visually, so their dreams would be based upon actions, events, people, or animals they see.

Mice, on the other hand, experience the world via smell. So, their dreams are about food, flowers, garbage, other mice, or whatever fascinating item they smelled that day.

Imagine dreaming in smells over sights. That dream experience could be wonderful if you visited a bakery, flower shop, or bread store; if you visited the junkyard or changed your baby’s dirty diaper, you may not want to go to sleep that night.

Should You Wake a Dog or Cat if it is Having a Bad Dream?

Perhaps the phrase, “let sleeping dogs lie” should be rephrased to “let dogs experiencing what looks like a nightmare lie.”

When your dog or cat is experiencing what appears to be a nightmare-legs twitching, eyes blinking rapidly, body shaking, voice whimpering, it’s best not to wake your dog or cat.

The dog or cat may awaken in a dream state (similar to when we wake not knowing where we are or what day it is) and cause injury to you, thinking you are part of its dream (source).

If your dog or cat is having a bad dream, gently call its name until it comes out of the dream state.

No Bad Dreams at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is such a fun, active, and safe place that we can’t imaging your dog or cat going to sleep afraid or experiencing nightmares.

During our boarding sessions, dogs get story time with our friendly and compassionate staff, and then they get tucked into our soft beds!

Cats get purr time when they are boarded, with staff making sure all bedding is soft and clean and nightmare free! Our cats are houses away from the dogs, making their stay quiet, peaceful, and serene.

Book Your Stay at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is the premier dream destination for your dog or cat. We would love to have your dog or cat stay with us. Simply click here to make your reservation!