Thursday, December 15, 2016

Take Time for Your Pet's Annual Wellness Exam

Like humans, your pets require an annual wellness exam or physical. Many people do not realize that their animals need to see a veterinarian on a regular basis, and often will only bring them in to see a doctor when they are hurt or sick.

The truth is, the best way to prevent any type of injury or illness in your pet is to make an appointment to see your veterinarian at least once a year. During this visit, your vet will be able to physically examine your pet, administer any vaccines or medications that they require, and answer any questions or concerns you have about your pet.

If it’s been over a year since your dog has seen a veterinarian, make an appointment today! In addition to keeping your pet happy and comfortable, most boarding facilities and pet resorts will require that you provide up-to-date veterinary records for your pet before you are able to reserve their stay.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

The Importance of Puppy Playtime

Having a new puppy comes with a lot of responsibilities - training, nutrition, and getting to know your new family member are all important aspects of being a responsible pet owner. One thing that many new pet owners take for granted is the importance of having your puppy properly socialized. A critical period of socialization takes place between the ages of 7 weeks to 4 months, and when proper socialization does not take place during this time period, your puppy can become fearful of other dogs or people. It can be tough to determine the best way to socialize your puppy, as you want to ensure that all of the interactions that they are exposed to are positive ones.

One of the best ways to provide socialization is by bringing your puppy to dog daycare. Most facilities will have a group designated to young or small dogs, so that your pet is able to make new friends and engage in appropriate play for their age. Not only will they be exposed to new dogs and be able to get some energy out, but they’ll also get the opportunity to be handled by new people outside of your family. In time, your new puppy will become more confident, a better listener, and adaptive to new situations. Some time in daycare can also serve as a relaxing break for the proud owner of a new puppy!

If you’re in the Fort Myers FL area and you’re interested in your puppy starting daycare to start their socialization on the right foot, visit our website to learn about our daycare options and to book your reservation!

Saturday, October 15, 2016

How Young is Too Young to Board Your Dog?

New pet owners often wonder how young is too young to board their new puppy. That is, until, they find themselves in a situation where they must leave their young dog on their own for their weekend. While a pet sitter is always an option, there are many wonderful socialization opportunities that pet boarding offers that a pet sitter simply cannot.

While different boarding facilities have different rules and regulations as far as the minimum age required for boarding, most defer to a simple rule: your dog must be fully vaccinated before they are able to board. For the safety of your dog and others, it’s important that he or she is properly immunized before having close interaction with people and other animals. For most dogs, all necessary immunizations can be completed by the age of 20 weeks. Some pet resorts may also require that your puppy has reached a certain level of house and crate training to ensure that their stay will be pleasant for both your pet and the staff.

Contact your local boarding facility to determine the minimum age for which they’ll accept puppies, and check to see what records you will need from your veterinarian before reserving your dog’s stay.

If you’re in need of dog boarding in the Cape Coral FL area, give us a call at (239) 939-3647 - we’d be happy to answer all of your questions!

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Is Boarding Right for My Dog?

Many people question if boarding their dog is the right decision. Leaving your dog in a new and unfamiliar environment can be stressful for both you and your pet, but if you choose a professional and reputable pet resort, you have nothing to worry about! Professional boarding facilities, like All American Pet Resorts Fort Myers, understand that some dogs like to socialize, while others prefer to hang out on their own and prefer the company of humans. Your stay can be customized to accommodate your dog’s personal needs, ensure that they receive the attention and exercise that they require, and keep your dog happy and stress-free during their time away from home. If you’re unsure of boarding for your pet, it’s a great idea to see if you’re able to leave your dog for daycare first to see how they do before moving onto an overnight stay.

Do you have more questions about if boarding is right for your Fort Myers FL area dog? Give us a call at (239) 939-3647 - we’d be happy to talk through your concerns!

Monday, August 15, 2016

How to Clean Your Dog's Ears

Cleaning your dog’s ears can be a tricky process, as it may feel a bit strange or uncomfortable for them if they aren’t used to it. However, if you’re able to make regular ear cleaning a part of your dog’s routine, they will come to tolerate it and become a healthier and happier pooch!

Start with an ear cleaning solutions meant specifically for dogs’ ears. Most solutions will have directions written on the bottle, which you should follow closely. Equip yourself with a soft cotton cloth - cotton balls run the risk of getting stuck - and treats for your furry friend. Pour a small amount of ear solution into your dog’s ear, and then massage the base of the ear canal to allow the product to make its way all the way into your dog’s ear. Allow them to shake their head if they’d like, as this will help to bring up any debris deep down in their ear canal where you aren’t able to reach. Clean the visible part of your dog’s ear with the cloth and repeat the process on the other ear.

Cleaning your dog’s ears at least once a week can go along way in preventing ear infections and keeping your dog healthy and comfortable. If you have any additional questions on cleaning your dog’s ears, or if your dog has been pawing or scratching at its ears or shaking its head often, contact your veterinarian.

Friday, July 15, 2016

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

Did you know that you should be brushing your dog’s teeth every day? Like us, improper oral hygiene can lead to plaque build up, tartar, and gum disease in our pets. More seriously, these kinds of dental problems, if left unresolved, can lead to potentially fatal diseases and infections in your dog.

The best way to brush your dog’s teeth is with a toothbrush designed specifically for them. There are different varieties to choose from, and depending on your dog’s preference and size of their mouth, you may find that a double-headed toothbrush or one that you simply slip over your own finger works best. Use toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs, and brush their teeth the way you would your own, scrubbing each tooth along with the gum line.

This procedure can take some time for your dog to get used to, so make sure you are doing it often in order to make it a part of their normal routine. Take it easy the first few times if your dog isn’t a fan. Start by simply putting the toothbrush or a little bit of toothpaste into their mouth without much movement, and work up to brushing their teeth for a minute or so. If you have any concerns about your dog’s teeth or mouth, such as bad breath, bleeding gums or difficulty eating or chewing, contact your veterinarian.

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Take your Dog to Work Day is Friday June 24th.

From the beginning, man's best-friend has been working alongside us, hunting, tracking, protecting our homes and property. Nowadays, life is busy with the corporate hustle and bustle and our furry friends are left at home. There were a reported 5000 companies in 2003 participating in take your dog to work day.  Is your company allowing your furry friend at the office on Friday?  If so, tell us where you work even post a picture of your pet at the office. If your office is not participating maybe you can organize this, it just might bond co-workers and help keep the office atmosphere positive and fun! Of course if you cannot bring your pet to work on Friday and they are lonely at home, We know of a fun, loving, playful place they can go to ...You guessed it..All American Pet Resorts!

"When I look into the eyes of an animal. I see a living being. I see a friend. I see a soul."
A.D.Wiliams

Monday, May 2, 2016

My Dog Got Kicked Out of Daycare Today.

This is a very good read as a business owner and a dog owner.

http://www.robinkbennett.com/2013/07/21/my-dog-got-kicked-out-of-daycare-today/



Monday, April 25, 2016

April 26th National Kids and Pets Day.

It seems that there is a National day for pets everyday and I love it.  Why not celebrate our pets, they fill our hearts with a special kind of love and comfort.  So what exactly is National Kid and Pet day? Studies have shown that kids who grow up with a pet tend to be natural nurturer's and compassionate beings.  It is up to us to teach our children to love and show kindness to all animals.  There are so many benefits for having a pet in a child's life, not only does it give them natural nurturing skills it also teaches children responsibilities.   I believe that pets have a long lasting affect on our childerns development. I witness this daily with my own children.  When my son is having a hard day he cuddles up with our dog, you know on the patch of carpet that the sun is shining through the window. That warm cuddle time seems to make everything all better.  I know my kids will be wonderful pet owners in the future and I will continue to educate them on rescuing.  This day might also be good to talk with children about pet safety too.  There are many accidents between children and family pets due to the childs lack of knowledge. So let's celebrate!! #NationalKidsAndPetsDay

Sunday, April 10, 2016

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month.

This is an effort by the American Red Cross to bring attention to know pet first aid.  As I was looking into this, I found that you can attend a first aid course for your pet.  You can learn, CPR and other helpful life saving skills about seizures, choking, splinting an injury and much, much more.  One thing I found helpful is creating a first aid kit for your car or your backpack when out on nature walks or hiking trips.
FIRST AID KIT:
1. A typed out paper with Vet, Emergency Vet, poison control (800)426-4435 numbers.  Also vaccination records and a picture of you and your pet with your info in a waterproof zip lock bag.
2. Extra Nylon Leash.
3. Self Cling bandage you can purchase from a pet store (Fur).
4. Muzzle or stripes of cloth to prevent biting, do not use if vomiting, coughing or breathing issues.
5. Gauze pads.
6. Tape.
7. Antiseptic wipes for you and your pet.
8. Hydrogen Peroxide.
9. Disposable gloves.
10. Small tube of Vaseline for thermometer lubrication.
11. Rectal Thermometer Pets temp should never rise above 103 F or below 100 F.
12. Scissors.
13. Tweezers.
14. Pillow case (confine a cat if needed for safety)
15. Ear Cleaning Solution.
16. Benadryl for allergic reactions, bug bites.  Ask vet for specific dosage.

I carry a lot of this in my car already but will now add specific items for my beloved fur baby!

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

National Puppy Day, did you celebrate?

Would love to hear what you do on National Puppy day.  I was watching the news and was amazed that someone sent in a video of them reading to their dog.  Do you do anything or have friends or family that celebrate this day?

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

National Poison Prevention Week.

National Poison Prevention Week is March 16-22nd.  So I did a little research on the top 10 that are reported to the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) every year. Number one does not surprise me at all.
1. Human prescription medications.  More then 20% reported were pets getting into medicine cabinets or on top of bedside tables. This is the seventh year in a row that prescription medications has been at the top of the list.
2. Over-the-counter medications. Over 25,000 reports came in with pets ingesting herbal and other natural supplements,  over 6,000 different products were reported.
3. Insecticides.  10% of the cases reported were that of backyard/open-space products being used. Following the directions on the label is so important or look for more natural fertilizers.
4. Household products.  This list is large and includes anything from cosmetic products, cleaning supplies, paint and laundry detergent.  The same rule should apply for pets as we would do for young children in the house. Store all household chemicals up on shelves.
5. Human foods. we are reminded of the foods that are toxins daily, chocolate, onions, raisins, alcohol etc.
6. Veterinary medications.  Believe it or not 7% of pets will ingest the entire bottle of their own medication if not kept out of reach, especially if they know what is in that bottle also means a piece of cheese or yummy treat goes along with it.
7. Chocolate. As listed above, more then 30 calls a day come in with pets that have ingested chocolate. Remember the darker the chocolate the more dangerous it is.
8. Plants. This is more focused to our cat loving families, cats will taste any household plant.
9. Rodent products. approximately 7,000 calls came in about pets ingesting chemicals used to kill mice, rats ants, all the pesky vermin we try to keep out of our homes.
10. Gardening products.  I think this runs right along with number 3. Keeping gardening spry and lawn sprays up and out of harms way.
With spring cleaning around the corner, this is a good time to organize medications and put all household items that could harm our beloved pets up on shelves.  If you think your pet has come in contact with a poison please call: the Animal Poison Control Center's 24 hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.
   

Monday, February 1, 2016

Pet Dental Health Month!

February is Pet Dental Health Month. Dental health is very important for our pets' overall health. The bacteria from periodontal disease can spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Pet stores sell tooth brushes or even a soft bristled child's toothbrush works too.

Make an appointment with your vet if your pet needs alternative methods to get those teeth clean!