Author: Country Boarding Kennels

As a responsible dog owner, it is important to create a safe home environment for your furry friend. This can help prevent your dog from getting lost or injured. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have highlighted 3 home safety tips to help you create a secure home environment for your canine companion:

1. Securing Your Garden

Just like a secure dog park, your garden can also be a great place for your dog to play and exercise in, especially during the summer months. However, it is important to make sure that your garden is safe and secure to prevent your dog from escaping. Here are some tips to help you secure your garden:

• Install a secure fence that is at least 1.5 metres high to prevent your dog from jumping over it.
• Make sure that your gate is secure and has a lock to prevent your dog from opening it
• Check your garden regularly for any gaps or holes in the fence and repair them immediately
• Remove any poisonous plants from your garden as they can be harmful to your dog if ingested

2. Home Safety

As a responsible owner you need to make sure that your house is dog-proofed to prevent your furry friend from getting into trouble. Here are some tips to help you dog-proof your house:

• Store all cleaning supplies and chemicals in a secure place that is out of your dog’s reach
• Keep all food and snacks in a secure place to prevent your dog from eating them
• Make sure that all electrical cords are hidden or covered to prevent your dog from chewing on them
• Use baby gates to block off any areas of your house that you do not want your dog to access
• Keep all medications out of your dog’s reach as they can be harmful if ingested

3. Choose pet-friendly furniture

Many owners are purchasing pet-friendly furniture made from resistant products like denim or microfibre, and keeping away from more toxic substances that could pose a significant risk to their dog’s health if chewed and consumed. Furniture can be toxic due to the materials used, finishes applied, and treatments employed. Harmful chemicals such as Formaldehyde, flame retardants, and solvents, can pose a significant health risk to dogs with some scientific research even linking them to cancer.

Instead opt for more pet and environmentally friendly furniture labeled as non-toxic containing eco-friendly materials like wood, bamboo, and other  natural materials that are safer for pets.

Lastly

We hope you found this article helpful. By following our three dog-friendly safety tips, you can create a secure home environment for your four-legged friend which will ultimately give you peace of mind knowing that they are safe and sound.

Many dog owners rely on GPS trackers to safely monitor their dogs. GPS trackers are small devices that attach to your dog’s collar and allow you to track their location in real-time. Some GPS trackers also include features like geofencing, which sends you an alert if your dog leaves a designated area, such as your local secure dog park.  Activity tracking, can monitor your dog’s exercise levels.

If you are worried about losing your dog, technology can help keep them safe. Did you know, that there are many technologies available in 2023 that can help you safely track and monitor your dog? It is true! Today, many owners are using devices such as GPS trackers, pet collar cameras and dog monitoring apps to safely monitor their four-legged friends. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have chosen three technologies that can keep your canine companion safe and secure. We hope you enjoy this article!

1. GPS Trackers

When choosing a GPS tracker, make sure to consider factors like battery life, range, and data plan requirements. Some GPS trackers require a monthly subscription fee, while others have a one-time purchase cost.

2. Dog Monitoring Apps

Dog monitoring apps are smartphone apps that allow you to also keep an eye on your dog’s activity levels, location, and health. Some apps include features like training tips and social networking for dog owners. When choosing a dog monitoring app, make sure to consider factors like compatibility with your smartphone, user interface, and data privacy policies. Some apps require a monthly fee, while others are free to download but may include in-app purchases.

Overall, using app technology can be a great way to ensure your dog’s safety and give you peace of mind. Just make sure to do your research and choose a device or app that meets your specific needs and budget.

3. Pet Pedometers

Pedometers are another great tech option to consider for tracking your dog’s steps. They work by attaching to your dog’s collar and counting the number of steps your dog takes. While they may not be as accurate as GPS trackers, they are a more affordable option. Many pet pedometers allow owners access to raw step data to better monitor their pet’s fitness goals.

With the right tracker, you can keep your furry friend healthy and active, while also giving yourself peace of mind.

Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful. There are many tech savvy products available that you can use to safely protect your dog. By using any of the three tech safety products outlined in this article, you can minimise the risk of your dog running away or getting lost. If you are interested in boarding your dog or booking them a pace at our leading dog day-care facility, please contact a friendly member of our team who will be more than happy to help you.

Regular vet check-ups are an essential part of responsible pet ownership. They help to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy and can detect any potential health issues early on before they become more serious.

During a check-up, the vet will examine your dog from nose to tail, looking for any signs of illness or injury. They will also ask you about your dog’s diet, exercise routine, and behaviour to get a better understanding of their overall health. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have included 5 key areas that your vet will analyse during a regular check-up:

1. Weight and Body Condition.

The vet will weigh your dog and assess their body condition to ensure that they are at a healthy weight. If your dog is overweight, the vet may recommend changes to their diet and exercise routine to help them lose weight and improve their overall health.

2. Oral health

A qualified vet will examine your dog’s teeth and gums to check for any signs of dental disease, such as tartar buildup or gingivitis. They may also recommend a professional dental cleaning if necessary. Your dog’s oral hygiene is vital and failing to regularly maintain their gums and teeth can result in long term diseases and health issues.

3. Vaccinations

The vet will check your dog’s vaccination records to ensure that they are up to date on all necessary vaccinations. Vaccinations help to protect your dog from a range of potentially life-threatening diseases. If you have not done so already, then book your dog into your local vets to ensure that they are up-to-date with having the latest vaccinations.

4. Parasites

The vet will also check your dog for any signs of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, or worms. They may recommend preventative measures, such as flea and tick treatments or deworming medication, to help keep your dog parasite-free.

5. Overall health

The vet will assess your dog’s overall health, including their heart, lungs, and other vital organs. They may recommend further tests or treatments if they detect any issues. An overall health check is an affective way for your vet to detect any underlying health issues your dog may have early on before they progress.

Lastly…

By taking your dog for regular vet check-ups, you can help to ensure that they stay healthy and happy for years to come. So, make sure to schedule regular check-ups with your vet and follow their recommendations for keeping your dog in top condition.

At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we are a leading luxury dog kennels and have been awarded 5 Star ratings from Hertfordshire County Council for our pet boarding services. If you are interested in boarding your dog with us, or want to use our dog day-care facility then please contact a friendly member of our team who will be more than happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

If you are a dog owner, you want to do everything you can to keep your furry friend safe and secure. One of the best ways to do this is by microchipping your dog. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have highlighted the top four benefits of microchipping your dog. We hope you find this article helpful!  

1. Peace of Mind

One of the biggest benefits of microchipping your dog is the peace of mind it provides. With a microchip, you can be confident that if your dog ever gets lost or stolen, there is a good chance that they will be found and returned to you. Many dog walkers who take their pets on walks to fields, woodland and even to secure dog parks, will ensure that their contact information is up to date at all times, whether it is inscribed on a dog tag or as data, stored within a microchip.

2. Permanent

Microchips are a permanent form of identification for your dog. Once the microchip is implanted, it will stay with your dog for the rest of their life. This means that if your dog is ever lost or stolen, their microchip will always be there to help identify them and get them back to you. Your four-legged friend’s microchip must always contain the correct information, and this goes for their dog tag, which should contain your name and address on, including a telephone number. However, in comparison to a collar or tag, a microchip is permanent and a lot harder to be removed or lost.

3. Effective

Above all, microchips are an effective way to identify your dog. They are small, about the size of a grain of rice, and are implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades. They contain a unique identification number that can be easily read by a scanner. When a lost dog is found and taken to a shelter or vet, they will scan the dog for a microchip. If your dog has a microchip, the identification number will be displayed, and the shelter or vet can contact you to let you know your dog has been found.

4. Medical History

Microchipping your dog also includes safety and security measures that help protect your pet from harm. For example, some microchips can be updated with a dog’s medical history. This information can be accessed by a scanner, allowing vets and animal shelters to quickly identify your pet and provide the necessary care. This is especially important for pets with chronic medical conditions or those who require medication. By keeping track of a pet’s medical history, shelters can ensure that they receive the proper care they need.

Animal shelters play a vital role in microchipping and ensuring that pets are safe and healthy. If you are a pet owner, make sure to microchip your pet and keep their medical history up to date. And if you are considering adopting a pet, make sure to adopt from a shelter that prioritises microchipping and medical care.

Lastly…

We hope you found this article helpful and it answered any questions you may have regarding microchipping your pet. Overall, microchipping your dog is a simple and effective way to ensure their safety and security. It provides peace of mind, is a permanent form of identification, and is an effective way to identify your dog if they get lost or stolen. If you have not done so already, consider microchipping your furry friend today. Remember, it is an offence to keep a dog which is not microchipped.

When it comes to identifying your cat, there are many different options available. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we will take a look at some of the most common forms of identification, and compare them to microchipping. We hope you find this article interesting and helpful.

1. Collars with ID Tags

One of the most common forms of identification for cats is a collar with an ID tag. These tags typically include your cat’s name, your phone number, and sometimes your address. While collars with ID tags can be effective, they do have some drawbacks. For one, collars can easily fall off or get caught on something, leaving your cat without any identification. Additionally, some cats may be uncomfortable wearing a collar and may try to remove it.

2. Breakaway Collars

In comparison, breakaway collars are specifically designed to come apart if they get caught on something, which can help prevent your cat from getting injured. While breakaway collars can be effective at keeping your cat safe, they still have the same disadvantages as regular collars with ID tags.

3. GPS Tracking Devices

Did you know that many cat owners today are also using GPS tracking devices? This is true! Unlike microchips, GPS trackers for cats offer you real-time GPS location information about your cat directly to your smartphone or tablet device. GPS tracking devices can be a great way to keep tabs on your cat’s whereabouts, but they are not a form of identification. While a GPS tracker can help you locate your cat if they go missing, it won’t help someone else identify your cat if they are found.

4. Microchipping

Microchipping involves injecting a small chip under your cat’s skin, which contains a unique identification number. This number is then registered with a database, which can be accessed by vets, shelters, and other animal welfare organisations. If your cat is found, they can be scanned for the chip and the identification number can be used to locate you. Compared to other forms of identification, microchipping is generally considered to be the most effective. It is a permanent form of identification, which means that your cat will always have a way to be identified, even if they lose their collar or tag. Additionally, microchipping is a quick and painless procedure, and can be done by your vet in just a few minutes.

IMPORTANT: It may soon become a legal requirement for the keeper of a cat over the age of 20 weeks, to have it microchipped.

Closing thoughts…

We hope you found this article helpful. Overall, there are many different forms of identification available for cats, but microchipping is generally considered to be the most effective. If you are interested learning more about the process of microchipping your cat, we advise you to speak to your local qualified vet who will be more than happy to give you any additional information you may need.

If you are also interested in boarding your cat with us please contact a friendly member of our team today. Our luxury cattery is removed from our dog kennels, and your cat can have their own comfortable room, or family sized room, heated by a radiator on request.

Summer is a great time for your cats to enjoy delicious, healthy and refreshing treats. However, not all human foods are safe for cats, so it is important to choose treats that are both tasty and healthy. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we will explore the three best summer treats for cats that are safe, nutritious, and easy to make.

1. Cool Treats

Summer can be a challenging season for pets, especially for cats, as they cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans. Therefore, it is essential to keep them cool and hydrated during the hot weather. Cats love cool treats, especially during the warmer seasons. One of the best ways to keep them cool is by feeding them watermelon. Watermelon is a great source of water and vitamins, and it is low in calories, making it an excellent summer treat for cats. You can cut the watermelon into small pieces and remove the seeds and rind before feeding it to your cat.

Another cool treat that cats love is yogurt. Yogurt is a great source of calcium and protein, and it is also low in lactose, making it suitable for cats that are lactose intolerant. You can mix some fresh strawberries or banana with yogurt to make it more delicious for your cat.

2. Frozen Lollies

Frozen treats are also a great and nutritious way to keep your cat cool during the summer. One of the best-frozen treats for cats is sweet potato lollies. Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they are also low in calories. You can boil some sweet potatoes and blend them with water before freezing them in ice cube trays.

Another frozen treat that cats love is peanut butter lollies. Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and it is also low in sugar. You can mix some peanut butter with water and freeze it in ice cube trays before feeding it to your cat. Delicious!

3. Feeding Tips

When feeding your cat summer treats, it is essential to keep their diet in mind. Summer treats should only be given in moderation and should not replace their regular meals. Also, make sure to avoid feeding your cat any fruits that are toxic to them, such as grapes, raisins, and cherries.

Lastly…

We hope you found this article helpful and will inspire you to try some of the cat-friendly snacks this summer.  These summer treats can be a great way to keep your cat cool and hydrated. However, it is essential to choose treats that are both delicious and healthy for your cat. By following the tips mentioned above, you can ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy during the summer season. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we are a luxury cattery in Hertfordshire and offer a professional and high-quality pet care service. If you are interested in boarding your cats at our luxury cattery, or if you want to come and see our facilities, call us on 01462 742658. Our friendly staff will look forward to speaking with you!

Summer is here, and for many dog owners, providing refreshing and nutritional treats for their four-legged friends is a top priority! At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have provided nutritional summer tips on how to introduce new treats to your pet’s diet. Below are some ideas for summer treats that your dog will hopefully enjoy:

1. Frozen Treats

Frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days. You can easily make them at home using an ice cube tray or a blender. Some ideas for frozen treats include:

• Frozen fruit: Dogs love fruit, and many fruits are safe for them to eat. Try freezing watermelon, strawberries, or cantaloupe for a tasty and refreshing treat
• Frozen yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics. Mix it with some peanut butter and freeze it before serving
• Frozen broth: Mix some low-sodium chicken or beef broth with water and freeze it for a hydrating dog friendly snack

2. Treats for Training and Attention

Summer is a great time to work on training and bonding with your dog. Here are some treats that can help with that:

• Apple slices: Apples are a great source of vitamins and fibre. Cut them into small pieces and use them as a training treat
• Liver treats: Liver is a great source of protein and minerals. You can buy pre-made liver treats or make your own by baking liver in the oven
• Frozen toy: Fill a toy with wet food or broth and freeze it for a fun and challenging treat that will keep your dog entertained this summer

3. Treats for Health and Wellness

It is important to make sure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need for a healthy body and mind, especially during the summer months. Here are some summer treats that your dog may enjoy:

• Sweet potato treats: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals. You can bake them in the oven and cut them into small bite size pieces
• Canned fish treats: Canned tuna or salmon are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Just make sure to choose a brand that does not contain added salt or sugar
• Melon treats: Melons are a great source of fibre. Cut them into small pieces that are easily digestible

4. Treats to Avoid

While it is important to give your dog healthy and nutritious summer treats, there are some foods that you should avoid. These include:

• Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems
• Grapes and raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs
• Onions and garlic: These can damage a dog’s red blood cells and cause anaemia
• Avocado: Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs

Lastly…

This summer, it is crucial to feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet and to give treats in moderation. If you are unsure about whether a particular food is safe for your dog, consult with a veterinary nutritionist or your local, qualified veterinarian.

At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we offer leading dog day-care facilities and hold a 5 Star ratings from Hertfordshire County Council for both canine care and pet boarding services. We offer the option of boarding only, day-care only or a combination of boarding plus day-care. Dog daycare, provides the perfect setting for your canine companion to receive regular exercise and mental stimulation in a dog friendly social space.

On the 4^th of June, many cat lovers from around the world celebrated National Hug your Cat Day, by giving their furry friends extra love and attention. Stroking a cat can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity for many people. However, did you know that there are many scientific benefits to this simple act of affection? It is true! At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we will explore three scientific benefits of stroking your cat. Enjoy!

1. Reduced Cortisol Levels

Stroking a cat is a therapeutic activity that can provide several health benefits to both the cat and its owner. Research has shown that stroking a cat can reduce stress levels and lower cortisol production in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress, and high levels can lead to health problems such as anxiety, hypertension, dyspnoea, and a weakened immune system. A study conducted by Washington State University found that petting a cat for just ten minutes can significantly reduce stress hormones in the human body.

2. Improved Cardiovascular Health

Owning a cat can be good for your heart! Cat ownership has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Stroking a cat can help to lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of many cardiovascular diseases. The act of stroking a cat has been shown to also release oxytocin, a hormone that can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. It has been reported by many health professionals that Oxytocin can help a person bond with loved ones and can also be released through touch, music, and exercise.

3. Positive Emotional Response

Stroking a cat can elicit positive emotional responses in both the cat and its owner. Cats are social species, and they have evolved to communicate through visual and chemical messages. When a cat enjoys being stroked, they will often purr, which is a verbal sign of contentment. Signs of cat enjoyment include relaxed body language, slow blinking, and a desire to be touched. Signs of dislike or tension include flattened ears, dilated pupils, and a swishing tail. Always pay close attention to these signs when stroking your cat and immediately stop if you feel your cat is not enjoying being petted. Remember, cats, just like humans, all have their own individual personalities and although some felines may enjoy being stroked, others may not, so always respect your cat’s boundaries.

Lastly…

We hope you found this article helpful. There are many scientific benefits associated with stroking a cat, that include reduced stress and cortisol levels, improved cardiovascular health, and positive emotional responses. So, if you have a cat who enjoys being stroked, then this can be a great way to reduce your anxiety, improve your overall health and wellbeing and help strengthen the bond between the two of you. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we are a leading luxury cattery in Hertfordshire and provide a professional and friendly service. For more information about our luxury cattery, or if you want to come and look around first, call us on 01462 742658. We look forward to hearing from you!

Today is Bank Holiday Monday and many UK dog walkers will be celebrating with their four-legged friends, by heading to secure dog parks, beaches, and fields. But did you know, there are many things you can do to make your dog walks more eco-friendly? It is true! Not only will you be helping the environment, but you will also be setting a good example for other dog walkers to follow. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have highlighted three eco-friendly tips to make your dog walk more sustainable this Bank Holiday Monday. Enjoy!

Preparing for the Walk

1. Leash Collar or Harness

Make sure your dog’s leash, collar or harness are in good condition before heading out. A damaged leash or harness can be a safety hazard for your dog and can also contribute to waste if you must regularly replace them.

Consider purchasing a leash and harness made from eco-friendly materials such as hemp or bamboo. These materials are sustainable and biodegradable, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious dog owners.

2. Water Bottles

This May Bank Holiday Monday looks set to be particularly warm, so ensure you and your dog stay hydrated when on a walk. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle made from sustainable materials for both you and your dog, as this will prevent you from having to purchase plastic bottled water and creating unnecessary waste. Plastic water bottles cause plastic pollution and other environmental issues. Many plastic bottles end up at landfills where it can take up a thousand years to degrade, discharging many toxic elements into the earth and water, sadly destroying the habitats and ecosystems of many animals.

3. Poop Bags

Likewise, when it comes to waste bags, opt for compostable or biodegradable alternatives instead of traditional plastic ones. Eco-friendly poop bags are made from materials that break down more quickly, reducing the amount of waste in landfills.

Remember to bring a separate bag for your dog’s waste and dispose of it properly in a designated dog waste bin. Leaving dog poop on the ground at a dog walking field  can be toxic to the environment and harmful to other animals.

Lastly…

Remember, small changes can make a big difference in reducing your environmental impact. By incorporating these eco-friendly tips into your dog walk routine this Bank Holiday Monday, you can do your part to go green and protect the planet!

If you are a dog owner, you will know how important it is to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. One way to ensure that your dog is getting the exercise, socialisation, and stimulation they need is by taking them to a professional dog day-care facility. But what is dog day-care? At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have answered this frequently asked question and highlighted four benefits of dog day-care that you and your dog will love. We hope you find this article helpful! 

What is Dog Day-care? 

Doggy day-care is a facility licenced by your local authority to ensure it meets the necessary standards in terms of facilities, staffing, safety and hygiene. Dog day-care services can help improve your dog’s health and wellbeing by providing them with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction in a supervised and safe environment. Always check with local authority that the facility you choose is currently licensed, as some are not.

What are Four Benefits of Dog Day-care? 

1. Socialisation 

Dogs are pack animals by nature, and they thrive on social interaction. At a dog day-care centre, your dog will have the opportunity to make new friends and play with other dogs. This socialisation is essential for their mental and emotional well-being. It also helps them learn good behaviour and manners around other dogs. 

2. Exercise and Stimulation  

Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for your dog’s physical and mental health. At a dog day-care centre, your dog will have access to a variety of activities such as playtime, secure dog parks and agility equipment. Exercise can help to reduce blood pressure, increase muscle mass and strengthen healthy bones. A well exercised and mentally stimulated dog is a happy dog, and many owners can notice a positive difference in their pet’s behaviour and confidence after they have spent just a few days at a professional dog day-care facility.  

3. Peace of Mind 

For many owners, leaving their four-legged friends at home while they are at work or running errands can be stressful for both them and their dog. With doggy day-care, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog is in a safe and supervised environment whilst you are away. You will not have to worry about them getting into trouble or feeling lonely. In addition, many dog day-care places, offer flexible and affordable options, including dog boarding services, so you can feel relaxed knowing they are in safe hands while you are away. 

4. Prevention of Destructive Behaviour 

When left alone for long periods of time, dogs can become bored and anxious. This can lead to destructive behaviour such as chewing, digging and howling.  To prevent destructive chewing, a professional dog day-care facility will provide plenty of ways for your dog to exercise their mind and body which can include activities such as brushing, fun games and obedience and agility training. Ultimately, dog day-care can provide a safe and stimulating environment for your four-legged friend, which can prevent certain negative behaviours from developing. 

Lastly… 

The benefits of dog day-care are numerous, and they can all help to positively impact your dog’s physical and mental health. From socialisation, exercise and stimulation, dog day-care provides a range of advantages that you and your dog will love. So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your furry friend happy and healthy, consider taking them to our leading dog day-care. Our day-care facilities have been inspected by North Hertfordshire District Council and we hold a 5 Star ratings from them for both day-care and boarding. You can choose between, boarding only, day-care only or a combination of boarding plus day-care. Overall, it is a great way to ensure that dogs receive the care, attention, and exercise they need to live a healthy and happy life.