"Winter weather tips for pet owners"

This article focuses on winter weather tips from K-9 Resorts to pet parents and how to make sure they stay warm, safe and healthy during the cold months. Preview below or read full article here.

"Winter weather tips for pet owners"

By: Alternative Press

With the cold weather and holiday season upon us, it’s important for all pet parents to know the best advice to take care of their furry family members. K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotel would like to share some winter weather tips for you and your pets. For more information about K-9 Resorts in Fanwood, more tips for your pets or to find a location near you go to www.k9resorts.com, fanwood@k9resorts.com or call at (908) 490-0808. 

1. When you bring your pet in from outside, make sure to wipe its paws and underside to remove any ice balls that could cause frostbite. Check ears, tail, and paws for any signs of frostbite as well.


2. Make sure you check your house for plants that could potentially harm your pets. Poinsettias are extremely poisonous to dogs and are most commonly found during the holidays around the home.

Read full article here. 

Separation Anxiety

It's sad to think the pets that bring us so much happiness could ever feel blue. 

However, Veterinarian clinics report that approximately 14% of dogs seen are suspected to suffer from separation anxiety. Since canines are naturally social animals, it's no surprise that many develop increased attachment behavior to their human family members.The onset of these problems often coincide when there is a dramatic change in the amount of time the owner spends with a pet. Symptoms of separation anxiety can include increased activities like restlessness, pacing, and whining when the owner is not present. Depression and physiological changes such as panting or even vomiting can occur. But short of never leaving your pet's side, how can you avoid increased anxieties in your furry friend?

Professionals report that medications should only be used in extreme cases, and there are many things owners can do to avoid serious situations. Ignoring attention seeking behaviors such as whining and nudging during training is important. Certain departure cues such as picking up keys and purses, or putting on coats and shoes should also be kept as low key as possible or even done in a different room until a pet is desensitized to these cues. Creating a big to-do when leaving a dog at home is common in humans, but this can increase the likeliness of anxieties in pets. 

Upon returning, you of course want to play with your dog immediately, but it can be very helpful to wait until your pet has calmed down a bit to begin playtime. 

K9 Resorts' Doggie Daycare is a “cage-free” environment, designed for dogs that are social with other dogs. Daycare provides an outlet to expend excess energy, socialize, exercise and remain active. Dogs are social animals that need exercise and stimulation, and Doggie Daycare is the best way to provide both! While it is just great fun, this exercise helps curb behavior problems like separation anxiety. Consider bringing your dog to our Doggie Daycare and see if it helps with those canine blues!

Pets a Threat to Gadgets?

TIME recently reported that pets may be a threat to the safety and longevity of your gadgets. Is anyone surprised? Most of you probably have a story of at least a close-call between your dog and an iPad or cell phone.

Eight million electronic devices are harmed by pets each year according to a study sponsored by SquareTrade Inc, a San Francisco company that sells extended warranty plans for consumer electronics. Since you've probably been through several in the past year regardless of your pet's involvement, you won't be surprised to hear that mobiles make up one-third of all devices vandalized by furry friends.

SquareTrade made a few more interesting finds:

• Incidents happened 66% of the time when pets were left alone with the devices in question.
• 17% of the incidents happened when owners believed their pets were "angry" with them.
• Males pets were 50% more likely to damage a device than female pets. 
• Overprotective pets were twice as likely to damage a device. 

Of course, SquareTrade wants you to buy an extended warranty, so their stats include even a lick from your pet, but the study does remind pet owners to be a little more careful with their electronic devices. 

Franchisee Spotlight: Teresa DeSousa and Ivan Kaplan

Teresa holds a Bachelor’s degree in both sociology and history, and held a position as Director of Human Resources for a small consulting firm before realizing she wanted to start her own small business. Teresa is a big animal lover, and the chance to open up an animal-oriented business appealed to her and her business partner Ivan.

Ivan has been a lawyer since 1991, and decided to leave law to pursue a business that coincides with his love for animals. After 20 years of law practice, he decided to take his life down a different career path. 

How did you learn about the brand? Why did you choose the brand?

Ivan lives close to the franchise headquarters and saw a billboard for the K9 franchise. We were discussing doggy daycare options because, let’s be honest, who wouldn't want to play with dogs all day? I knew what I wanted and what I expected as an owner, and wanted to make that dream a reality.

What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A franchise allows you the freedom of owning your own business, while utilizing a model. I don’t have to recreate anything, but K-9 is specifically great because the owners are open to suggestions. There is room for give and take, and franchising in general is a smart thing to do. I wasn't thinking about buying into a franchise initially, however once I received more information, I knew this is what we wanted to do.  

What makes your business different?

K9 is a great location for dogs and it is known for its cleanliness. It’s a different experience for customers and their animals; it’s more of a spa experience. We don’t want these dogs left in cages all day; the animals should be taken care of well. It’s horrible when places isolate the dogs they’re boarding.

How do you connect with the local community through your business?

We want to give back to the community so one of the things we would like to do is work with developmentally challenged individuals who can receive therapy and socialization from working with dogs. Whether it be watching or feeding the animals, the act of spending time with dogs can be very therapeutic and nurturing. We will also get involved with civic community activities, as well as fundraising. We will work with the police and fire department for raising awareness on safety.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?

The uncertainty of opening up a new business is always a struggle. I had to quit my job and do temporary work so I had the time to start K9. There is a huge learning curve and a lot of involvement with architects, engineers, general contractors, and electricians. These things are new to me, as I've worked in corporate most of my career.

What are your expansion or development plans?

We would like to get this one off the ground first. Perhaps in the future we will open more locations.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?

I’m a huge fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants, and I also love to travel.

They're Just Like Us Moves to Voting

K-9 Resort's Facebook fan contest "They're Just Like Us" have moved to voting. The top thirteen entries are now competing for the top prize of a $150 Visa gift card.

The contest is aimed at a pet's ability to act just like a human. Fans have submitted photos featuring their pets doing everything from sitting behind the wheel to watching March Madness from the recliner. The early leader in the contest is Trooper, a rescue dog, submitted by his owner Saleena G. of Springfield, NJ. Trooper is sporting a festive outfit of purple velvet and zebra print.

Fans can vote every 24 hours for their favorite pet. Click HERE to vote and be part of the contest!

Franchise With K-9 Resorts!

Have you ever thought about owning a business? Think of how great it would be to be your own boss. When you buy into a franchise, you're buying into a proven business model without having to worry about all the stress that comes with a start-up. At K-9 Resorts, we have the tools you need to get started.

Today, one out of every three dollars spent by Americans for a good or service is spent in a franchise business.  A franchise increases your chances of business success because you are associating with proven products and methods. Purchasing a K-9 Resorts franchise allows you to be in business for yourself but not by yourself.  You will benefit from our 14+ years of success and proven track record in the pet care industry.  K-9 Resorts is the only pet care facility in New Jersey that is rated #1 by multiple major publications; that means we’re the best!  Don’t you want to learn from the best?

Brand Awareness

K-9 Resorts is the only facility in New Jersey that is rated #1 by multiple major publications.

The System

Our proven system works and will allow you to follow a proven track record and avoid the mistakes associated with starting a business on your own.  K-9 Resorts can offer you a level of support unmatched by others.

Economies of Scale

If you’re a single entrepreneur, you have the buying power of one.  If you’re a franchisee, your franchisor can negotiate bulk rates and pass along the savings to you.

Financing

Most new businesses require start-up capital, regardless of whether you franchise or not.  While most franchisors do not supply financing, we have relationships with lenders who will view that brand’s referrals more favorably than an independent business owner just starting out.

Marketing

We know what works and what doesn’t work.  With the help of K-9 Resorts Marketing Team, more of your advertising dollar is spent on advertising that has been proven to be successful.

Speed to Market

You can build the most beautiful dog boarding facility and fill it with the most expensive equipment.  That takes time as well as money.  Or, you can sign up with a franchisor who has done this before and be handed a shopping list of exactly what you need to set up shop, allowing you to open for business more quickly than if you had to research it all on your own.

Training

We offer extensive training in every aspect of running your business.  We cover everything from caring for pets to training new employees, from running a doggy daycare to purchasing supplies for your business. Our training program is designed with both classroom learning and practical training in a K-9 Resort to provide you with all the information and tools needed to run your business.

Support

We are here to support you as you begin your dream of owning your own business.  Our support begins the moment you sign your franchise agreement.  We work with you to help you select and secure the best site, obtain your financing and build out the location.  We will continue to support you as you open and grow your business.  Consistent communication and visits to your resort will be made by our team to provide business coaching, plan marketing, assist with employee development and create new strategies to build your sales.

Customer Satisfaction

K9 Resorts is off to a great start on the business side of 2013, but we're also thrilled with how our customers have been responding to their experiences. 

Here is just a sample of all the great things we've been hearing on our Facebook page:

Kathy Burkhour: "I never left my dogs in a kennel before. But last December I broke down and left my pup at K9 Resorts. She loved it! Last week she spend 4 nights there and the experience was A+"

Ana Carolina: "This is my first time leaving my dogs in a day care center, and chose k9 Resorts. The experience is starting good, both receptionists are cordial, nice, respectful. It gives me a lot of confidence!!!"

Dr. Anant V. Joshi, DVM: Hello all at the K9 Resorts! I visited your place a few days ago and found it to be immaculate, friendly and a perfect place for the dogs to socialize during your day care activities.

We're looking forward to continuing exceeding customer expectations! 

K-9 Resorts Featured on NBC12 News!

K-9 Resorts was recently featured on NBC12 News in an article titled, "K-9 Resorts Daycare and Luxury Hotel On Path for Groundbreaking 2013".

The article speaks about the busy year K-9 Resorts had with 8 new openings in 2012 and they're planned growth for the coming year. Founders Steven and Jason Parker report that there are 3 planned openings in New Jersey alone, with 6 total openings by year end. The article also speaks of the huge wave of interested franchisees K-9 Resorts has received due to recent appearances on CNN Money and Fox News.

Click HERE for the full article or begin reading below:

K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotel On Path for Groundbreaking 2013

After a whirlwind year in 2012, K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotel (K-9 Resorts) signed eight franchises on the east coast. The one-of-a-kind daycare and overnight boarding facility for dogs expects to have two of its first franchise locations open by May 2013.

“We’ve already broken ground (on our franchise location) in Middletown, New Jersey and in Fairfield, New Jersey,” said Steven Parker, Co-founder of K-9 Resorts. Steven, along with co-founder and brother Jason, presented Mayor Gerard P. Scharfenberger of Middletown with a $500 donation during the groundbreaking ceremony for the shores’ first K-9 Resort. The donation will be used towards the Hurricane Sandy relief fund, for the aid in repairing the millions of dollars in damage the area sustained in October during Hurricane Sandy.

They're Just Like Us!

K9 Resorts is excited to launch a new contest on Monday, March 4, titled "They're Just Like Us!"

The contest will be run via the official Facebook page of K9 Resorts. Fans of the page will be asked to submit photos or videos of their pets in real-life human situations, be it dressed up in formal wear or sitting at the computer. Submissions will be accepted through the month of March and then the entries will be faced by the public!

K9 Resorts will ask its fans to vote for their favorite photo of the pet that really is just like us, and the winner after a three-week voting period will receive a $150 Visa gift card.

If you have think your pet has the human gusto it takes to win, be sure to check out the K9 Resorts Facebook page by clicking HERE.

Oh No, Where'd You Go?

Veterinarian clinics report that approximately 14% of dogs seen are suspected to suffer from separation anxiety. Since canines are very social animals, it's no surprise that many develop increased attachment behavior to their human family members. The onset of these problems often coincide when there is a dramatic change in the amount of time the owner spends with a pet. Symptoms can include increased activities like restlessness, pacing, and whining when the owner is not present. Depression and physiological changes such as panting or even vomiting can occur. But short of never leaving your pet's side, how can you avoid increased anxieties in your furry friend?

Professionals report that medications should only be used in extreme cases, and there are many things owners can do to avoid serious situations. Ignoring attention seeking behaviors such as whining and nudging during training is important. Certain departure cues such as picking up keys and purses, or putting on coats and shoes should also be kept as low key as possible. Creating a big to-do when leaving a dog at home is common in humans, but this can increase the likeliness of anxieties in pets. Until a dog is desensitized to those cues, it's helpful to do them in another room or while the dog is distracted with a special toy.

Upon returning, you of course want to play with your dog immediately, but it can be very helpful to wait until your pet has calmed down to begin playtime. 

Leaving your pets behind isn't easy for anyone whether it be an hour or a day, but creating and maintaining a normal and low-key routine can make it easier on everyone. K9 Resorts can help when you leave for an extended vacation to give your pet the same amount of attention and love that you do at home in our beautiful accommodations to ensure your pets stays happy through your absence and are ready for your return. 

Pet Trends Turn to Acupuncture

The past decades have indeed seen a huge increase in the amount of care and money that is spent on pets in the United States. But going beyond the boarding, diets, and designer threads, the newest trend for pets seems to be in human medicine. In fact, beyond traditional approaches to therapy, owners have begun exploring alternative therapies. Namely, acupuncture. ABC's Nightline recently ran a feature on the new trend.

Sessions ring in around $100 per visit three times per week, but doctors say that's a small price to pay for something you care about most. Owners report that even though their pets, of course, may not be able to speak for their results, they do see a difference in pet behavior. One owner even reported that pet acupuncture saved his dachshund's life. 

Still, all agree that the best medicine for any pet is free: TLC. 

To read Nightline's full article and view the video feature, click HERE or view the video feature below:

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Watch More News Videos at ABC | Technology News | Celebrity News

2013 Pet-Sitting Industry Forecast

Pet Sitters International released their 2013 Pet-Sitting industry forecast which has the market looking up for pet-loving entrepreneurs. It's no secret that America has a growing love-affair with its pets and owners are increasingly seeking out even in-home pet care options. K9 Resorts is ecstatic about the forecast.

Begin reading the article below or click HERE.

Pet Sitters International Releases 2013 Pet-Sitting Industry Forecast
By: PRWeb

A new e-book released by Pet Sitters International (PSI) this month highlights the growth of the in-home pet-care industry and shares encouraging industry data for pet-loving entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on the nation’s ever-growing love affair with pets.

PSI’s "2013 Pet-Sitting Industry Forecast"—a follow-up to the association’s 2012 report—is a compilation of data from its State of the Industry Survey, current market research, its collective intellectual capital and knowledge from its 18-year history and more than 7,100 member businesses. Analyzing the current climate, culture, increased competition and continuing opportunities within the professional pet-sitting industry, PSI predicts another stellar year for this growing profession.

Dress Up Your Pet!

K-9 Resorts is proud to bring you the Dress Up Your Pet Facebook contest. We are asking you to submit all those great photos of your adorable puppies all dressed up. Once the submission period is over you can rally your friends and family to vote for your photo for the chance to win a $150 Visa gift card. The submission with the most votes by January 20th will be announced the winner, it's that easy! So break out those cute little costumes and start snapping pictures!

Submit your entry here!

15 Homemade Holiday Pet Treats!

The Holiday season is upon us! As you prepare to start your shopping and spreading of holiday cheer, don't forget to treat your furry friends. What better way to show your puppy with love then by treating them to some special holiday snacks. We came across this great article by the examiner that shares some wonderful holiday treats you can use to pamper your pup. So keep the holiday cheer flowing and let shower your pup with these tasty delights!

15 Homemade Holiday Pet Treats: ‘Bone-afide’ Christmas Recipes for Fido & Fluffy

By: Jace Shoemaker-Galloway

With the holidays right around the corner, many people are scouring the crowded stores in hopes of finding those last-minute gifts, busy wrapping presents and/or preparing for that big holiday meal. But in the hustle-and0bustle of a busy and hectic holiday season, many folks overlook other valued members of the family – our furry, four-legged friends.

Whether your family consists of a Fluffy or a Fido, it’s important to remember our beloved pets during the holidays too! And you don’t need to spend a fortune either. Why not whip up a batch of homemade pet treats that are safe to eat and guaranteed to be tail-waggin’ “bone-afide” hits? Grab a few of your favorite holiday cookie cutters and you are on your way to being the cat's meow and the top dog in your house!

While the holidays can hold additional hazards and dangers for our furry friends such as tinsel, certain table scraps and poisonous plants, it is important to remember certain ingredients humans consume can cause serious illness or can be deadly to pets!

Recipes for Homemade Holiday Doggy Treats

• Gourmutt Holiday Peanut Butter Treats – This simple recipe sounds dog-gone good! You’ll need molasses, natural peanut butter and oil! There is also another recipe for Christmas Carob Mint Dog Cookies too!

Click here to read the entire article, and see the full list!

Onset of Flu Season Raises Concerns About Human-To-Pet Transmission

ScienceDaily.com has an article featuring flu season and how people who get sick may not realize they can pass the flu not only to other humans, but possibly to their animals, including their pets such as cats, dogs and ferrets, etc. For the full article, see below.

Onset of Flu Season Raises Concerns About Human-To-Pet Transmission

By: ScienceDaily

This concept, called "reverse zoonosis," is still poorly understood but has raised concern among some scientists and veterinarians, who want to raise awareness and prevent further flu transmission to pets. About 80-100 million households in the United States have a cat or dog.

It's well known that new strains of influenza can evolve from animal populations such as pigs and birds and ultimately move into human populations, including the most recent influenza pandemic strain, H1N1. It's less appreciated, experts say, that humans appear to have passed the H1N1 flu to cats and other animals, some of which have died of respiratory illness.

There are only a handful of known cases of this phenomenon and the public health implications of reverse zoonosis of flu remain to be determined. But as a concern for veterinarians, it has raised troubling questions and so far, few answers.

Veterinary researchers at Oregon State University and Iowa State University are working to find more cases of this type of disease transmission and better understand any risks they pose to people and pets.

"We worry a lot about zoonoses, the transmission of diseases from animals to people," said Christiane Loehr, an associate professor in the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine. "But most people don't realize that humans can also pass diseases to animals, and this raises questions and concerns about mutations, new viral forms and evolving diseases that may potentially be zoonotic. And, of course, there is concern about the health of the animals."

The researchers are surveying flu transmission to household cat and dog populations, and suggest that people with influenza-like illness distance themselves from their pets. If a pet experiences respiratory disease or other illness following household exposure to someone with the influenza-like illness, the scientists encourage them to take the pet to a veterinarian for testing and treatment.

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