FREE Puppy Socialization & Seminar

Mark your Calendars for Meadowlake's FREE Puppy Socialization & Seminar on January 14! Meadowlake's Doggie Daycare Manager, Stacy, and Trainer, Tori will discuss the importance of socializing your puppy at an early age, as well as answer any questions about training. Customers who attend the class will also receive special pricing for select Daycare and Training options!

MEADOWLAKE PET RESORT OFFERS A HELPING HAND TO THE PEARLAND COMMUNITY

 Meadowlake Pet Resort welcomes 20 unique visitors to its facility.  The Pearland YMCA Teen Summer Camp visited Meadowlake twice within this summer.  During this time, the teenagers learned about proper care for animals, animal rescue groups, how to approach a new dog, and made wonderful treats for our doggie guests!  July 11^th was the first day of their adventure into the pet care world, and they made wonderful personalized bandanas for Meadowlake’s guests.  On July 25, the kids learned about DockDogs in Meadowlake’s pool, the only Permanent DockDog Sanctioned Diving Pool in Texas.    Meadowlake was excited to invite these future pet care professionals into our facility!

Trainer is now one of only 17 Certified Pet Trainers in Houston!

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The CCPDT's certification program is the first national certification for dog trainers. Until the creation of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers in 2001, there was no nationally available certification process for dog trainers. Many schools teach dog trainers and offer certification for their specific programs. These certificates, therefore, reflect the teachings and quality of a specific school. Other organizations offer take-home tests for "certification." These tests are not monitored, nor are the testing processes standardized, or checked by a psychometrician. The CCPDT administered its first test September 28, 2001, during the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) Annual Educational Conference in Ellenville, NY. Since then, the test has been administered two times a year at 700 sites throughout the US. All test sites are professionally secured and moderated by Professional Testing Corporation of New York.
This professional testing program was originally created by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the largest association of dog trainers in the world. Early on, the APDT recognized the need for certification for its profession. Pet dog trainers needed a credible means of measuring their knowledge and skills and the dog-owning public needed a credible barometer for choosing a trainer.
A task force, of approximately 20 nationally-known dog training professionals and behaviorists, worked for three years to research and develop the comprehensive written examination. The APDT also hired Professional Testing Corporation to ensure the process met professional testing standards. It then created a separate, independent organization-the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers (CCPDT)-to manage the accreditation and pursue future development. Today, the APDT and CCPDT are two completely independent and separate organizations.
Candidates who pass the CCPDT's written examination for professional dog trainers earn the title Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed and may use the designation, "CPDT-KA," after their names. All certified trainers must earn continuing education credits to maintain their designations. They must also adhere to a strict Code of Ethics in their dog training practices.

The Art of Racing in the Rain-Book Review

The Art of Racing in the Rain

By

Garth Stein

Review by Laura Koch

Garth Stein captures the inner thoughts of man’s best friend in a way that is touching and eye-opening in the book The Art of Racing in the Rain.  The reader feels instantly connected to “Enzo”, a mutt, who carries us through the life of his owners in his own words. Enzo not only listens, but understands, his family’s troubles and triumphs. He desperately tries to communicate back with gestures and barks. He leads us through the tragedy of illness in the family and the great accomplishments of his owner Denny, the race car driver.  Through driving references, Enzo explains how he feels and what advice he would give Denny, and others, if he could speak.

Enzo will have the reader “racing” through the pages to see what happens next. Throughout his dog life, Enzo anticipates the day he passes and is reincarnated as a human. He believes this is the path every dog will take. He looks forward to the day he can meet Denny in his new human form.

The Art of Racing in the Rain will bring out many emotions in the reader, but most importantly, remind everyone that compassion can be felt by all living things and that there is always hope…even in the darkest of times.

I highly recommend this story to anyone who has a love for animals and a passion for life. It will leave the reader smiling and looking for more.

How to set up a goldfish bowl properly!

Goldfish can be easy and fun to take care of if you know the proper way to do it. Below you will find step by step directions for setting up a goldfish bowl.

1.       Purchase all supplies needed, including a large goldfish bowl, gravel or rocks, water conditioner/dechlorinator, goldfish food and a small net. Additional recommended supplies are a small hiding place or plants, an air stone, air tubing and air pump.

2.       Thoroughly rinse bowl, gravel, plants and decorations and place in bowl.

3.       Fill with room temperature tap water.

4.       Add water conditioner/dechlorinator as per directions on the bottle. This takes hard metals, chlorine and other harmful chemicals out of the water. It also adds a conditioner that helps reduce stress on the fish.

5.       Connect air stone and place in the back of the bowl just above the gravel. Plug in air pump to begin circulation of water. This will help keep the water oxygenated and help to prevent the growth of algae.

6.       Wait 24 hours before purchasing your goldfish to ensure optimal water quality. Many pet stores will perform a free water test to make sure the water is safe.

7.       Take home your new goldfish immediately after purchasing and allow the bag the goldfish is in to float in the goldfish bowl for 15 minutes. This will help acclimate the fish to the water temperature of the bowl.

8.       Scoop the fish out of the bag with the small net. Never use your hands and avoid putting the water from the bag into your bowl.

Clean your goldfish bowl once every week. Waiting longer than that can cause the ammonia in the water to reach dangerous levels. Do not overfeed your fish as this can also cause ammonia to rise and algae to form. Feed only what the fish can consume in 5 minutes one time per day. Your goldfish can live happily alone for its life, but if you do decide to introduce another fish, use this rule: one gallon of water for every inch of fish. If you follow the above rules you can enjoy a clean bowl and a happy, healthy goldfish for years to come.

Meet Tori Hankey, Meadowlake's Trainer



Tori has been training dogs since 2005.  She has successfully trained a wide variety of breeds from puppies to senior pets using positive training methods. Through group classes and private consultations, Tori has experience with obedience, Canine Good Citizen, therapy dogs, and agility training. She has several years experience working hands on with dogs in boarding facilities and animal shelters all over Texas. Tori has a special talent connecting with the dogs. On a personal note, Tori has a five year old Border Collie, Oakley and a 10 month old Pit Bull, Sookie that she has trained from puppyhood. Their favorite activities are attending Doggie Daycare, going to the dog park, playing with tennis balls and frisbees, practicing their obedience training and playing tug of war.

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How exercise can improve your dogs behavior!

Exercise for your dog is essential for a healthy and happy lifestyle.  Many of the unwanted behaviors dogs exhibit can be eliminated by allowing your dog the physical activity he needs.  The amount of exercise needed can vary based on age, breed, and personality.   It is imperative to be involved in providing the correct amount of physical stimulation for your pup.

It is a common misconception that providing a backyard to run around in will suffice as daily activity for all dogs.  Unwanted barking, hyperactivity, and even aggression can be a result of lack of exercise.  All dogs need to be given proper toys and plenty of human attention to avoid excessive chewing, nipping, and jumping.  Even the smartest dog will display destructive behavior if he is not provided a positive way to release pent up energy. Tug of war mixed in with a game of fetch is a great way to occupy your dog’s mind with activity.

Most dogs need to be able to reach a full sprint for at least fifteen to twenty minutes several times a week.  This can be accomplished at a dog park, a fenced in field, or a doggie daycare facility.  Allowing your well socialized dog to run with a pack of dogs his size and temperament is a great way to promote physical fitness and mental health.  It is likely that upon returning home your dog will curl up for a nap instead of knocking items off the coffee table with his tail, counter surfing for food, or searching the floor for your tasty tennis shoe. 

-Tori Hankey

It may be cold outside, but we're still having fun!

In any weather, Meadowlake Pet Resort is here to provide your pet with the exercise it needs to stay happy and healthy! We have huge indoor play areas dedicated to days just like today! Enjoy the pics below of dogs playing in the warm Daycare room!



Consider this, if you are considering a pet sitter!

Meadowlake Pet Resort is dedicated to quality care for your pet and we truly feel that we are the best solution for all your pet care needs. However, we understand that there are other options when deciding where your pet should stay when you are away. Having a a trusted individual come to your home or taking your pet to someone else's home is an option that some people choose, but may not always be the best for your pet.

What can Meadowlake do that a home pet sitter can't?

1. Attention - while you are away your pet while seek out more attention than usual. Not having that attention will result in added stress. In a high quality facility, potty breaks, feeding times, treats, play times and other activities will provide your pet with the attention they strive for. A pet sitter may only be able to visit your home for a limited amount of time each day.

2. Experience - a boarding facility will have trained staff that love and care for the guests as if they were their own. Meadowlake's highly qualified staff have pet CPR and first aid training and many employees are Pet Care Services Association certified. Be sure to ask potential pet caregivers about training. During an emergency, it could save your pet's life.

3. Excitement - Increased amount of time at home alone may cause extreme boredom, which often leads to destructive behavior such as chewed furniture, rugs, accidents inside, holes in the yard and much more. Many resorts offer exciting activities, calm settings and a variety of stimulating interactions a day that will help minimize this behavior.

4. Safety - A premium facility will be well maintained, clean and pose no safety hazards to your pet. Your pet will be monitored by a trained staff member when spending time outside of their accomodations. In many cases, facilities have surveillance cameras, state of art alarm systems, generators, and staff present for the majority of the day. You will always find comfort in knowing that your pet is safe.

A quality pet resort such as Meadowlake can offer your pet extra services that a pet sitter will not be able to offer. Such services include quality training programs, exceptional grooming services, group play options, pool time, unique supplies and more.

Meet our Daycare Manager-Stacy Weightman



Stacy has always been a huge animal lover and has been the proud owner of numerous rescued animals throughout her life. From ducks to dogs, Stacy has cared for them all! Originally from the Dallas area, Stacy moved to Houston three years ago to complete her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Houston Downtown. After graduating, Stacy moved to Galveston with her 3 year old rescued Pit Bull mix, Bogart. She joined the Meadowlake Team in August as the Daycare Manager. Stacy is a Level II Certified Advanced Pet Care Technician through the PCSA, Pet Care Services Association, a Board Member of the Galveston Island Humane Society, and has extensive training in off-leash group play.

Stacy is very passionate about the benefits of daycare. She says, “One of the most important factors affecting your pet’s socialization is the frequency of positive social interactions that are facilitated by attending a stable daycare pack. Dogs are creatures of habit and by attending daycare on a regular basis, you are helping to create a happy, healthy, and most importantly, well-socialized canine.” 

Meadowlake's DockDog Event makes the Chronicle!



Meadowlake held the first Intro to DockDogs event for this year on January 22nd, 2011. We were proud to introduce several first time jumpers to the sport! The Chronicle was there to catch all the action! Click on this link to read the whole article!
Join us for our next event on February 19th from 11-1pm. Please call Meadowlake for more information! 713-413-1633!
We hope to see you there!

Meet Meadowlake's Owner!



Carroll Robertson Ray

A native Houstonian and life–long animal lover, Carroll is the proud mom of Rose and Lex Hochner, the happy owner of Miss Abigail, her rescue cat and Miss Harley, her rescue dog. She has been an active business woman all her life. Carroll studied the kennel business extensively before assembling a team of dedicated experts to assist in the design, construction and staffing of her own unique pet resort, named after her favorite childhood street. Carroll is involved with many Houston area community organizations. Gov Rick Perry recently appointed her a Regent of the University of Houston. She serves on the boards of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Ballet Foundation and the Neuhaus Center.

Find out more about Meadowlake and all the staff on our website.

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Choosing a First Pet For Your child

Children are fascinated by animals, and rightly so.   Animals can teach children about science, friendship and love. It seems natural that many children beg their parents for a pet early in life. Having a pet can teach them a great amount of responsibility; however, it is the parent’s responsibility to choose the correct pet for their child. With so many choices out there, here are some good tips on how to make the right choice.

1)      Research different types of pets and evaluate your child’s interests. Dogs, cats, guinea pigs, fish and even reptiles can make good first pets depending on how mature your child is and the type of role they will be able to play in taking care of the animal. If your child is old enough, ask them to do research too. Take them to the library, help them do searches online and have them report their findings back to you.

*Did you know that exotic pets such as chinchillas, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, ferrets and many birds require specialized handling, food, vet care and an expertise that is acquired through years of experience? These are not good 1^st time pets for kids.

2)      Once your research is done, determine what amount of work your child will be able to contribute to the care of the pet. Can they take a dog for a walk? Scoop a cat litter pan? Clean out a hamster cage? Or are they only old enough to feed an animal? Once you decide what level of work they are able to do, you must decide how much YOU are willing to do. Keep in mind, that whatever your child can’t do, will fall back to you. How much do you have time for?

3)      Also remember that children often lose interest in their new pet over time. They also may become involved in more school activities, sports or other things that keep them from giving their pet all the care and attention it needs. If this is the case, you are responsible for providing the pet with a happy and healthy life. Remember this when choosing the pet.

4)      How much are you willing to spend? Hamsters will cost about $100 for all the supplies you need to get started and cost little to maintain. On the other hand, a reptile may cost several hundred for special heating and lighting elements. A dog will require much more with needed vaccines, regular vet checkups, training classes, toys, food, grooming and more. Make sure you are willing to budget in the daily/monthly and annual cost of your new pet for the lifetime of the pet.

5)      What type of interaction do you want your child to have with the pet? Dogs, cats, ferrets and other small animals require hours of hands on attention every day. Your child will be in direct contact with the pet. They must be at an age to understand how to pet gently and give positive attention to the animal. If they are not old enough for this, you may want to consider a caged animal such as a fish or hamster.

6)      Are there any allergies in the family? If so, pick a hypoallergenic pet. Fish, reptiles and many breeds of dogs and cats fit into this category.

7)      How long will the pet live? Pets are a lifetime commitment. Make sure that you discuss this with the entire household and you are ready to care for the animal until it passes. A hamster or gerbil may only live 2-4 years, but certain species of birds can live well into their 80’s and 90’s!

8)      Smaller is not necessarily better! Hamsters and gerbils are a very common first pet; however, they are usually not the best choice. It takes them time to become accustomed to being held. Prior to that your child may suffer many bites. They are also hard to hold on to…small children tend to squeeze too hard or drop the pet which can injure or even kill them. There are other small animals that are easier to handle like a guinea pig. If your child insists on a hamster or gerbil, consider not allowing your child to handle them.

9)      Once you decide on a pet, be ready and willing to purchase all the necessary supplies for the animal. Skimping on supplies to avoid a large initial bill is not in the best interest of the animal. To make the animal’s life healthy and happy and to teach responsibility to your child, purchase everything you need as soon as you pick out your new family member.

10)   The last thing to consider is where find your pet. There are many abandoned animals, including birds, reptiles and even mice, available for adoption in shelters across the country that would make wonderful pets. If you decide to purchase an animal from a pet store or breeder, make sure that they are reputable. Get recommendations from friends or family and research them first.

Above all, remember that once you choose your pet, it is part of the family. Learn all you can about the animal, take care of it properly and foster the type of loving, responsible care that your child can offer your new family member.

Intro to DockDogs this weekend!

Meadowlake Pet Resort is hosting an Intro to DockDogs class every month.  This event will include a brief presentation about this fast growing sport, which features dogs jumping into a pool in a high-flying pursuit of a ball or toy.  Meadowlake staff will help you find the best way to get started with your dog.  Dogs of all sizes, shapes and breeds can try their paws at dock diving.  If your canine doesn’t want to jump in, they can walk down the ramp into the pool.  The cost to attend is $10 for each dog, free for people.  Don't have a dog? come watch for free! Dogs need to have proof that vaccinations are up to date.  The dates for the Intro to DockDogs events are;

January 22, 2011 from 11 AM – 1 PM

February 19, 2011 from 11 AM – 1PM

March 19, 2011 from 11 AM – 1 PM

April 23, 2011 from 11 AM – 1 PM

Socialize your dog while saving money with $20 Tuesdays!

Meadowlake Pet Resort announces a new Doggie Daycare special, Twenty Dollar Tuesdays.  This special  will be available every Tuesday for clients who enroll their dog in Doggie Daycare.  Those dogs will receive a bath (shampoo, nail trim, ear cleaning and towel dry) and a half a day of Doggie Daycare for only twenty dollars.  “One of the most important factors affecting your pet’s socialization is the frequency of positive social interactions that are facilitated by attending a stable daycare pack,” explains Daycare Manager Stacy Weightman.  “Dogs are creatures of habit and by attending daycare on a regular basis, you are helping to create a happy, healthy, and most importantly, well-socialized canine.”  All dogs must be evaluated before enrollment.  Visit www.meadowlakepetresort.com/daycare to fill out your dog’s Daycare Evaluation Form then call 713-413-1633 to schedule a reservation.      

Plan to have a baby in 2010? Here is how to help your furry kid adjust!

Having a baby is an exciting and stressful time. The preparations start months in advance and include many alterations to your house and your routine. All of these changes can be quite confusing to the family dog. Often times, the baby arrives and the pet’s world is turned upside down. Their reaction to this stress can include everything from being possessive over the new baby to lashing out at you or your precious little one. The good news is that there are many ways that you can help prepare your pet for the addition to come. Following these tips can help to ensure that your pet is more at ease when the baby comes, and will lessen the chances that you will ever have to consider finding the pet a new home.

Several months before the due date make sure that your dog is up to date on all vaccines and is current on flea and heartworm medications. Complete any necessary procedures during this time.

Discuss with other members of the household how things will change once the baby comes. Will someone else be responsible for feeding or walking the dog? Will you be moving the dog’s sleeping location, food bowls, toys or other items? If any of these things will change, gradually start now. By the time the baby arrives, the dog will be accustomed to the new routine.

Stock up on any necessary pet supplies now. The last thing you want is to realize you’re out of dog food when the baby finally falls asleep! Get plenty now so you don’t have to worry about it later. Please keep in mind that switching a dog’s food can cause additional stress and intestinal issues. Keep the food the same, or switch long before the baby comes.

As you bring new baby supplies into the house, allow the dog to sniff and explore them.  It is not appropriate for your pet to be investigating the new and “foreign” objects in their home when your baby is in them.

Decide if the dog will be allowed into the nursery. If not, you may decide to put up a baby gate in the doorway or train the dog to stay out of the room. Remember, either way he should be allowed a chance to investigate the room first.

Purchase a c.d. of baby noises and play it regularly for the pet. Crying, whining and screaming can be very disturbing to dogs the first time they hear it, especially if you seem panicked about it. Allowing them to hear these sounds before the baby’s arrival will help the dog (and you) get used to the added noise that will soon fill your household.

Purchase a small doll or wrap a blanket up and act like you are holding a baby several times throughout the day. Monitor how the dog reacts to this situation. Does he still try to jump on your lap? Start redirecting his behavior now. Every time he jumps, firmly say “no” and give him a dog toy to play with instead. The dog needs to understand that it is not play or cuddle time when you are holding the baby. This will also help your pet adjust to the decreased amount of attention that he may receive. If this experiment goes poorly, it is a very good time to enroll in a professional training class.

Speaking of training…make sure that you keep up with your pet’s regular behaviors such as sit, come, stay and lay down. These behaviors will be needed often as visitors come and go to see the new addition to the family. Keep in mind that positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog and ensure the retention of his behaviors. Praise him for all the good things he does and make sure that he knows he is part of the family…but not the only part!

Prior to leaving the hospital, bring home a blanket or piece of clothing that smells like your newborn. The dog should be able to smell this before meeting the little one.

When you do come home, mom should enter the house without the baby in arms. Typically mom has been away from the house the longest and your faithful companion will want to greet you with hugs and licks and will appreciate being allowed to do so.

With solid training, attention to detail regarding routines and an early introduction to the sights, sounds and smells of the new baby, the stress of bringing baby home should be kept to a minimum. Be patient and reach out for advice from a professional if needed. Thousands of families enjoy the company of their pet as they bring children into the world. You can be one of them too!

A New Year Brings New Hope to Dogs

Meadowlake Pet Resort ended 2010 with the introduction of our newest program, A New Leash on Life:

A New Leash on Life is a unique training program designed to give rescued dogs a better chance at finding their adoptive family. Many rescued dogs have never been properly trained and lack the basic manners needed to find their forever home.
Meadowlake saw this as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these dogs. Meadowlake partnered with rescue organizations to offer socilaization and obedience to dogs in need, free of charge.
The program takes place at Meadowlake where the rescued dog resides for 30 days while learning important skills and house manners. The dog will also engage in a healthy daycare group play environment several times a week after undergoing an evaluation of his/her social skills.
Meadowlake's trainer, Tori Hankey, teaches the dog how to walk properly on a leash, that it is not polite to jump, to come when called and basic commands such as sit and stay.
At the end of the program, the dog is ready to integrate into a true family environment where he can continue working on his commands in his forever home.
We are so proud of this program and thrilled to be able to help dogs get a new start on life in 2011!