Skip to main content

Keeping your dog cool in the summer months

By Dogs No Comments

As the weather gradually improves and temperatures rise, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your dog cool. Some dogs, such as breeds with particularly thick coats or breathing difficulties really struggle in the heat.

 

Older dogs and certain breeds tend to be more at risk. However, no matter what type of dog you have, you still need to make sure they don’t overheat. Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration and heat stroke such as dizziness, difficulty breathing, excessive panting, lethargy and vomiting.

 

Never leave your dog in a hot car, even if all the windows are open the temperature can still be far too hot. You should also avoid walking your dog during the hottest times of the day, such as midday. Walk them early in the morning or late in the evening instead.

 

Try and limit how much time your dog spends outdoors in direct sunlight in the summer, and make sure they have somewhere they can take shelter from the sun. There are some ways in which you can help to prevent your dog from getting to hot. Here’s some tips on how to keep your dog cool in the summer months.

 

Paddling pools

Get your dog a paddling pool for the summer and they can instantly hop in and cool down. Dogs love paddling pools and enjoy taking a dip in the refreshing water, and it’s funny watching them take a dip and splash around with their paws.

 

Hosepipe

If you have access to a hosepipe, give your dog a quick spray every so often to help cool them down. Some dogs are terrified of the hosepipe, but others can’t resist trying to bite the water and run in front of the spray.

 

Access to fresh water

Obviously you need to ensure your dog always has access to fresh water, especially when they weather is really hot. Keep an eye on their water bowl and make sure it’s constantly topped up. Remember that your dog will drink more in the summer so you will need to fill their water bowl more often.

 

Misters and dog fountains

You can get misters for your garden which are fantastic way of cooling your dog down. They can just stroll through the refreshing mist whenever they need to cool off. You can also buy special dog fountains that your pooch can drink from.

 

Cooling jackets and beds

If your dog is at risk of heat stroke and really suffers in the summer, you may want to purchase a special cooling jacket. Cooling beds can also provide an area for your dog to relax and cool down.

 

Ice products for dogs

You can buy ice toys and products that are made especially for dogs, such as this Chill Out Ice Track & Thirst Quencher. These products will help cool your dog down as well as provide them with some entertainment.

Avoid Ticks this summer

By Dogs No Comments

Tick seasons starts in March and ends in November. Tick numbers tend to increase as the weather starts to get warmer, so you should start looking out for these pesky creatures at the beginning of spring (although they can be present all year round).

Ticks can’t jump onto a host, they reside on trees, grass and vegetation and wait for an animal to brush by, at which point they latch on. If a tick is left, it will feed on its host for around five to seven days before dropping off.

Ticks have six legs, and can be between 1 and 2 millimetres long before they attach. Once they have collected blood from their host, they can grow to the size of a pea. People often see them on their dogs and mistake them for moles or skin tags.

Some ticks can be harmless, but unfortunately others can spread disease such as Lyme disease.

You can buy tick prevention treatments, although it is unclear how effective they are.

Where are ticks found?

Ticks are usually found in healthland, long grass, woodland, moorland, forests, rough pasture and even urban parks. They can also occasionally be found in gardens, especially gardens with a lot of shrubs and vegetation with regular visiting wildlife. Try and avoid letting your dog run through these areas during tick season, and if you do walk them in these places, stick to the paths.

Check your dog regularly

You should check your dog for ticks daily, and after all dog walks. You can do this by feeling all around their body, taking care to check hard to reach areas such as armpits and ears. If you do spot a tick, don’t leave it and remove with a tick ‘picker’ which twists the tick out.

Watch out for symptoms in your dog including poor appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, depression or excessive salivation. Brushing and grooming your dog regularly can help increase your chances of spotting them.

Natural tick prevention methods

There are some natural remedies that can help to prevent ticks. Garlic is a natural tick repellent, as well as lemon and apple cider vinegar. Please check with your vet before giving your pet these foods. This website also offers ideas for making tick prevention sprays and shampoos.

JOB VACANCY

By Dogs No Comments

PART-TIME DRIVER/DOG DAY CARE ASSISTANT RIPLEY

Dog Days Adventure is a dog day care centre providing day care, walks, fun and activities for dogs of all breeds at its two centres in Ripley and Ockham.
Due to increased demand for its services, Dog Days Adventure is looking to recruit a reliable, organised and confident DRIVER/DAY CARE ASSISTANT to join its team.
The position is for 2 to 3 days per week and to cover holidays when required.

To be considered for this position, candidates should :
– Be over 25 for insurance purposes with a clean driving licence
– Be a confident driver and preferably have a familiarity with the areas we cover for pick ups/drop offs
– Live in Esher or surrounding area.
– Have experience working with dogs – ideally you will have worked in a kennel environment or for a dog charity
– Be comfortable and confident handling dogs of all breeds
– Have good interpersonal and communication skills
– Enjoy working as part of a small but growing team
– Have a flexible and ‘can do’ attitude
– Must be prepared to work in all weather and conditions

APPLICATIONS
Please apply in writing with a copy of your CV and a covering email to info@dogdaysadventure.co.uk by Friday 10th June 2016.

Spring walks in Surrey with your dog

By Dogs No Comments

Best Places To Walk Your Dog In The Spring

 

It’s the middle of spring, and there’s only a few weeks to take advantage of the fantastic dog walking opportunities spring provides. After lots of muddy, wet and chilly dog walks over the winter, it’s great to welcome some sunshine and warmer weather.

We are a dog daycare centre in Ripley and Ockham, Surrey, so naturally we know some of the best places to take dogs in Surrey in the spring. These are all places where there are beautiful spring flowers in bloom. Here’s some of the best places to walk your dog in spring in Surrey.

Limpsfield chart

Limpsfield chart is located on the outskirts of Oxted, Surrey. It’s a large woodland area The bluebells at Ridlands Grove are particularly beautiful. There are plenty of pubs in and around Limpsfield and Oxted should you wish to stop for lunch after your walk. The George in old Oxted is dog friendly.

 

Painshill Park, Cobham

Dogs on a short lead are welcome, but they are not permitted in any of the buildings. Painshill Park is an 18th century landscaped park near Cobham. Here you will find beautiful walks and lovely scenery. Walk passed the pretty bluebells, historic vineyard and river that runs through the park. It’s a wonderful places to experience the best that spring has to offer.

Leith Hill, Holmbury St Mary

Make your way to the to of Leith Hill, near Dorking, Surrey (not far from Guildford) and take in the jaw-dropping views of the whole of the county and surrounding areas. The views here are so far reaching that you can even see parts of London. Apparently, on a good, clear day you can see 13 counties.

There’s an 18th century viewing tower and some lovely woodland for your dog to run around in. In the spring you can admire the bluebells and rhododendrons, which were allegedly planted by Charles Darwin’s sister.

Surrey Hills

The Surrey hills in and around Guildford offer a wide range of different dog walks, all of which are very enjoyable in spring. The countryside of leafy Surrey is at its best at this time of year. Some of the best walks include Box Hill, Octavia Hill Walk and Leith Hill (mentioned above). Click here for more information and to plan your route.

Virginia Water

Virginia Water is located on the edge of Windsor Great Park. It’s a wonderful place to take the kids, and dogs can enjoy a cool dip in the lake. There are ducks and swans here, so keep your dog on a lead if they are likely to chase them.

Want more inspiration? Get Surrey has listed their best 15 dog walks in Surrey here.

Why Dog Owners Should Send Their Dog to Dog Days Adventure?

By Dogs No Comments

 

It’s important to choose the right daycare centre for you and your dog. You need to find somewhere where you will feel comfortable leaving your beloved dog when you can’t be around for them. Dog Days Adventure is a highly respected and trusted dog daycare centre in Surrey. We are passionate about dogs, and provide a first class service for dog owners in and around Surrey.

Here’s just a few reasons why dog owners should send their dog to Dog Days Adventure.

Excellent facilities

We have excellent facilities including two large, fully fenced, secure fields where your dog can stretch their legs and have lots of fun. For dogs, there isn’t anything more enjoyable than running around and playing in fields outside all day with their doggy pals.

We also have some areas where dogs can rest and take some time out should they need a break, an agility area, puppy play area, paddling pools and a nearby lake that the dogs can enjoy in the summer. We see our daycare as a home from home for your dog. Come and visit us and see our fantastic facilities for yourself.

Pick up and drop off service

We offer a pick up and drop off service which is extremely convenient for our customers. There aren’t many day care centres that offer such a dedicated service. We cover areas including East Molesey, Esher, Thames Ditton,Oxshott Claygate, Kingston, Surbiton and locally Ripley, Send.

Beautiful setting

Your dog will get to relax in beautiful countryside in the heart of leafy Surrey. We are fortunate to have great daycare sites in key locations in Surrey. We have day care centres in Ockham and Ripley.

We cater for all types of dog

We accept all different breeds of dog, from enormous Leonbergers to tiny Chihuahuas. We also accept young puppies from three month old, to dogs entering their senior years. Your dog will get to spend time with a huge variety of different dogs at the daycare centre.

Activities to keep your dog entertained

We run all sorts of activities to keep the dogs in our care busy and mentally simulated. Activities include structured games, countryside walks and

swimming in an adjacent lake with like-minded doggy pals.

Flexibility

We are extremely flexible and try to cater to your specific needs where possible. We know that sometimes life doesn’t run like clockwork, and your daycare needs may vary from month to month. That’s why we have a flexible booking system. There’s no contracts, you just pay for what you use.

Experienced staff & excellent reviews

Find out about our team of experienced dog daycare staff here. You can also read reviews from lots of happy customers on our website. Dog Days Adventure is run by Cindy Owen who works with a dedicated and experienced team of dog professionals who are committed to providing the best possible care for your dog.

Socialisation

We can help your dog with socialisation and get them used to being around a variety of different dogs. We do not accept aggressive dogs, but we can help dogs that are a bit over the top and also dogs that just need to build their confidence.

Click here to contact us and find out more about our daycare service.

2 hour service in Ripley and Woking

By Dogs 2 Comments

Dog Days Adventure are delighted to announce that due to popular demand,  they will be introducing a dedicated two hour service for dogs in Ripley and Woking.

With guaranteed two hours of play, fun, walks and socialisation with like minded dogs, your dog will have the best time!

Dog Days Adventure service includes pick up and drop off in one of our fully crated vans,  wash and towel dry before home time!

 

 

 

Reasons to get a rescue dog instead of a puppy in 2016

By Dogs No Comments

Why You Should Get A Rescue Dog Instead Of A Puppy in 2016

We have had lots of puppies come into day care lately, and we obviously love spending time with adorable little pups. However, owning a rescue dog can be just as wonderful and even more rewarding than having a puppy.

So many dogs in the UK don’t have loving homes, and there are thousands of dogs waiting in rescue centres around the country or even further afield.  Dog Days Adventure has 4 Greek and Cypriot rescue dogs and they are well socialised and a pleasure to look after. If you are currently thinking about getting a dog, it’s definitely worth at least considering rescuing a dog instead of buying a puppy. Here are some reasons why owning you should get a rescue dog in 2016.

You will be doing a good thing
Obviously one of the main reasons to rescue a dog is that you will be doing a good thing. Why buy a puppy when there are so many lovely rescue dogs waiting for someone to give them a second chance?

Some rescue dogs have had a traumatic and tough start to their lives, and want nothing more than a safe home where they can begin to enjoy life. By getting a rescue dog from a rescue centre you will also be freeing up space for another dog to be saved.

Having a rescue dog can be very rewarding
Those who have had rescue dogs will know just how rewarding bringing these dogs into your lives can be. Some dogs can end up making a complete transformation, going from not trusting humans at all, to learning that people really aren’t that bad. One thing’s for sure, you definitely learn a lot when you take on a rescue dog, about yourself and also about canine behaviour.

When you start to see changes in the behaviour of your rescue dog, and watch them grow into a well-mannered, happy companion, you will be very proud. There is a common misconception that all rescue dogs are trouble, but a lot of dogs are rehomed through no fault of their own. All you have to do is find the right dog for your circumstances, and there are plenty to choose from.

Older dogs aren’t as much work as puppies
A lot of people have no idea just how much work a puppy is. It’s a huge commitment. You have to train a puppy from scratch and looking after a puppy will take up a lot of your time and energy.

If you don’t want a young pup, you can get a slightly older rescue dog which has already been given basic training and doesn’t need to be toilet trained. Of course some rescue dogs can be more difficult to train, but on the whole, puppies are far more demanding and a bigger commitment.

You will develop a very special bond
It’s difficult to understand this until you have experienced it for yourself, but the bond you develop with a rescue dog is extremely special. Perhaps it’s because you know you have a dog in your care that could have had a very different life.

Puppies are expensive
Puppies, especially some breeds can be very expensive. Sought after, designer and rare breeds of dogs can cost up to £2000. Rescue dogs usually cost between £100 and £300, which is a much smaller investment. Usually the money you pay for your rescue dog barely covers what it cost the rescue centre to care for your dog.

You could save a dog’s life
You never know, by getting a rescue dog you could end up saving a dog’s life. Whether it’s the dog you adopt, or the dog that gets your dog’s space in the rescue centre. It’s comforting you know that you may have saved your dog from an unfortunate fate.

New Year’s Resolutions your dog would make!

By Dogs No Comments

New Year’s Resolutions for Dogs!

It’s that time of year when we all start to think about what we want to change in the New Year. Many people make New Year’s Resolutions and set goals for the year ahead. While we were thinking about our resolutions at Dog Days Adventure, it got us thinking, if dogs could make resolutions, what would they be? Read More

Keep your dog safe this winter

By Dogs No Comments

Winter Hazards For Dogs

The winter months present many hazards for dogs and their owners. It’s important to be aware of the dangers that the cold weather and change of environment brings. There are some more obvious hazards, and others that some dog owners might not be aware of. Here are some winter hazards all dog owners should look for.

1. Snow
Most dogs enjoy playing in the snow. However, it’s important that when they do, they do not play in deep snow and are monitored at all times. Some things can be concealed under the snow that could cause injury to your dog, such as sharp objects. Avoid deep untouched snow as you don’t know what might be underneath it.

2. The cold
Most dogs with thick coats can handle the cold weather for a short period of time, but there are many breeds not made for cold weather. For example, breeds such as Greyhounds and Whippets don’t struggle to retain body heat due to their short coats and slender frame. Elderly dogs and also very young pups can really struggle in the winter.

All dogs should own a dog coat for the harsh weather. Coats not only keep them warm but they also help to stop them from getting too wet and dirty. Even dogs with thick hair will be affected by the cold weather if outdoors for a long time. The cold weather can cause your dog to catch a chill, and in extreme cases hypothermia or frostbite. Make sure your dog stays warm enough during the colder winter months.

3. Dark evenings
When winter comes it gets dark quicker in the evenings. It’s important to take precautions and extreme care if you have to walk your dog in the dark. If you walk your dog in the evening keep them on a lead and get a high vis jacket and glow in the dark collar for them to wear, so that they can easily be seen.

4. Ice
Ice can present all sorts of challenges in the winter. The biggest risk it poses to dogs and their owners is being slippery. Take care when walking out on frosty days and avoid walking in icy areas. The last thing you want to do is fall over and injure yourself. Your dog could also fall over and hurt themselves.

Ponds, lakes and rivers can also be very dangerous. Stay away from any frozen water and check your route before you set off. Your dog could run onto the ice and if it cracks they could fall in and get trapped in the freezing water.

5. Salt and grit
This can irritate your dog’s paws and it’s very harmful if ingested. After walking your dog always clean their paws to get rid of any salt and grit in case they try and lick it off.

6. De-icer
De-icer is very poisonous for dogs, who are attracted to its sweet taste. A lot of people use it in the winter months. It can mix with the snow and ice while it melts so do not let your dog eat or lick any snow.

7. Cracked paws
Often dogs’ paws get very cracked and sore in the cold weather. You can use a paw protecting product on their paws that acts as a barrier or buy some dog boots which are used especially for snow.

8. Kennel cough, chest infections
Older dogs can be affected by chest injections in winter months, much like elderly people the cold can affect them and make them more vulnerable to infections. Make sure your dog is up to date with their vaccinations and keep them warm this winter.

Christmas Presents for Dog Lovers

By Dogs No Comments

Christmas Present Ideas For Dog Lovers

Finding the right gifts for loved ones at Christmas can be difficult. However, if you know someone who is a dog lover, there are plenty of things to choose from. Most dog lovers would really appreciate getting something dog related on Christmas day. You can get lots of personalised gifts and book experiences that they will love. Here are some suggestions for Christmas presents for dog lovers.

1. Doggy photo shoot
Dog owners can’t resists taking thousands of pictures of their beloved pooch. Most dog owners would love to have some professional pictures of their best friend. Book a professional dog photo shoot and they will have special pictures of their dog to keep forever.

2. Dog calendar
Calendars can make great stocking fillers and are great if you are on a budget. If you want to make things more personal, get a customised calendar with pictures of their dog for each month.

3. Books
Hard core dog fans love a good dog related book. You can get all sorts of helpful training books, amazing stories about dogs and their owners and also photo books with adorable pictures.

4. Beginner agility set
If the person you are buying for has a dog that would enjoy agility, you might want to consider getting them a beginner agility set or even booking some agility lessons. Agility is an excellent sport for dogs and it’s a great way for owners to strengthen their bond with their canine companion.

5. Memorabilia
You can buy a wide range of different dog related products online, from t-shirts and jumpers to mugs and mouse mats. Browse the internet and you will find plenty of dog related memorabilia and personalised products for dog lovers.

6. Dog shows
They definitely won’t be disappointed with tickets to a major dog show such as Discover Dogs or Crufts. Book them tickets and surprise them with a wonderful gift on Christmas day.
7. Dog walking gear
Get them a practical gift this Christmas, all dog lovers will appreciate receiving dog walking gear for Christmas. It may not be the most exciting gift but they will get a lot of use out of things like waterproof jackets, wellies or some decent walking boots.

8. Weekend away with their pooch
If you want to go all out then why not book them a special weekend away with their dog? There are plenty of dog friendly places across the UK. Most dog owners would love a fun trip away with their dog.

Keeping your dog calm on Firework Night

By Dogs No Comments

Keeping Your Dog Calm On Firework Night

Firework night only comes once a year, and it is the most dreaded night of the year for some dog owners. Many dogs across the country suffer from terrible anxiety when fireworks are let off.

Dogs can be very sensitive animals and they have amazing hearing, which means loud bangs can really startle them. Crowds of people can also make them anxious, as well as the flashes of light from the fireworks.

Signs of fear
Fireworks night can get very distressing for both dogs and their owners, who struggle to watch as their dog gets more and more terrified. Dogs show fear and react to fireworks in a number of ways.

For example, being destructive, excessive barking, panting, whining, pacing across the floor, shaking, panting and scratching. Some dogs can become so distressed that they actually injure and harm themselves, usually by trying to escape or by chewing or scratching their skin. Other dogs might just sit very still and not do much, but deep down they are petrified.

Prepare in advance
It’s important to prepare for fireworks night in advance, so that you can make your dog feel as comfortable as possible. Make sure your dog has had enough exercise, this will help tire them out and make them more relaxed. Dogs with pent up energy are more likely to become nervous and anxious.

It is important to make sure your garden is secure so they aren’t able to escape. Go around your garden and check for any escape routes. It’s a good idea to keep your dog on the lead when you let them out during the fireworks, even if they have excellent recall they may bolt when they get startled. Where possible, it is always best to keep dogs indoors and not exposed to the fireworks.

In the lead up to fireworks night, create an enclosed space such as a den, with blankets to make them feel secure. This is a place where they can go on fireworks night to feel safe.

Distracting your dog with high rewards can really help. Make sure you have all their favourite toys handy and try and keep them busy with some fun games. Some dogs will be too scared to play, so don’t try and force them.

Closing the curtains and turning the TV volume up can help block out the noises and loud bangs. They will also benefit from low and dim lighting. It’s helpful to know when there are any firework displays on in your area, and whether or not your neighbours are planning having displays. This will help you to prepare in advance and know which nights might be more challenging for you and your dog.

A lot of dog owners feel the need to shower their dogs with attention and constantly try to reassure them. This doesn’t help as it reinforces their anxious behaviour. The best thing to do is keep yourself calm and go about your normal daily routine. Behaving normally as you would on any other day will show them that there is no reason to be fearful.

Natural remedies
You may find you have tried everything, and nothing is working, but every dog is different. You certainly won’t find a solution for your dog’s fear overnight. There are however, many natural ways to keep your dog in a controlled and calm state.

For example, Adaptil, which is a plug in spray or a scented collar. A drop of lavender oil on their blanket can also help to calm them down. There is a new product on the market called the thunder shirt, which is a snug coat to make your dog feel secure if suffering from anxiety. It’s safe, effective and drug free. You can also get calming tablets from pet shops and anti anxiety medication from your vet.

Preparing for next year
If after firework night you realise your dog is really fearful, you can begin preparation for next year.You might want to consult a canine behaviourist or talk to your vet about ways to help your dog.

You can also to record a video of fireworks and play this video on extremely low volume on a daily basis. Gradually over time you can turn the volume as your dog doesn’t react, which slowly desensitises them to the noise of fireworks. Doing these some of these things are preparing in advance will give your dog the best chance of coping on firework night.

How to prepare your dog for day care

By Dogs No Comments

How To Prep Your Dog For Daycare In The Autumn

Autumn is here and so is the mud and the rain. Not that your dog will mind or notice with all the fun they have at day care. There are a few things you can do to ensure your dog is prepared for the autumns and keeps the elements…and mud…at bay!
Coats, jumpers and onesies
A waterproof, padded coat is a good idea. It helps protect against the cold, wind and rain and keeps your dog warm. And with most of your dog’s body covered, the dirt stays on the coat and not your dog. Besides which, a dapper coat does make a fashion statement.

Onesies are all the rage at the moment, but for dogs? Well yes, dogs can also benefit from them too. Usually made from waterproof material, dog onesies cover and wrap the dog so that only their head and paws are showing. Brilliant for keeping mud off long fur and keeping chills at bay.

Some of our dogs with smooth, short coats such as Weimaraners, Italian Greyhounds and Pugs can get the shivers. A cosy jumper can make a big difference so they can stay toasty.

Regular haircuts
It’s important that if your dog has a longer coat that they get regular haircuts. If they are sent to daycare with very long hair it is likely to get more tangled and matted in the mud. Make sure your dog has regular trims to keep their coat at a manageable length.

Brushing
Brushing your dog is essential no matter what time of year it is. However, your dog’s coat can get extremely wet and dirty in the winter which means it’s more likely to build up debris and get tangled. Your dog’s coat will be much more manageable if you brush it on a daily basis. Brush your dog before they go to daycare and also when they get home, a perfect bonding experience.

Nails and pawpads
Have your dog’s nails regularly cut by your groomer or vet and trim the hair underneath their feet. If the hair gets too long between their paw pads it can matt and gather dirt, snow and ice in the winter.

Rest assured, even with the wettest of winters and muddiest conditions, the team at Dog Days Adventure will do their best to send your dog home looking clean and smelling great, all part of our regular service.

Maggie Westie

By Dogs No Comments

Maggie joined the DDA pack at 12 weeks and followed Archie, her Dog Days Adventure housemate, in January 2015. She was probably the tiniest puppy we have had in our care…and probably true to say, the most demanding!

As it was too cold and wet for Maggie to be outside for any length of time, the team set Maggie up with her own puppy suite and covered bed in the office. After short spells of supervised outside play and interaction, Maggie could nap in her puppy pen.

Gradually, time outside was increased and Maggie was introduced to the main field on a flexi lead so she could gain in confidence but be safely by the carer’s side.

Now aged 5 months, Maggie is a confident little pup and interacts with all breeds and sizes with ease.