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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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

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/