http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/rss/feedsEverything Your Royal Pet Needs. All In One Castle. Royal Pets Market & Resort is dedicated to providing exceptional care to all pets. We strive to build long-term relationships with every pet and their parents by providing unmatched customer service within our state-of-the-art facilities.Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:43:59 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/economic-downturn-no-cause-for-concern-for-pet-industry-executivehttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/economic-downturn-no-cause-for-concern-for-pet-industry-executive Denise Wolin, the founder and CEO of Royal Pets Market & Resort, has the luxury of operating in what she considers a recession-resistant business. “Where other industries decline,” she says, “the pet industry actually increases.” Click here to read the full story.Thu, 25 Aug 2022 05:29:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/royal-pets-makes-headline-newshttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/royal-pets-makes-headline-news With front cover photos and headlines and a two-page feature in its latest issue, Tampa’s Business Observer has taken notice of Royal Pets Market & Resort’s growth and commitment to unparalleled service. Highlighting Royal Pets’ new prime location in Midtown, Tampa, the Business Observer declares, “Crowning Achievement…Royal Pets has arrived.” Click here to read the full story.Thu, 14 Jul 2022 07:23:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/royal-pets-market-and-resort-plus-veterinary-center-is-moving-into-midtown-tampa-and-it-is-pawsomehttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/royal-pets-market-and-resort-plus-veterinary-center-is-moving-into-midtown-tampa-and-it-is-pawsome Pet parents will be wowed by this state-of-the-art concept, a one-stop solution for your pet care needs. Royal Pets Veterinary Center and Services will help you maintain a happy and healthy pet. In our market we have all the must-have items to spoil your dog or cat; and we have everything from delicious gourmet treats to affordable pet wellness plans. Most importantly, stop in and visit our pet experts who will help you with all of your nutritional needs. How cool, right? You no longer have to drive all over town to find the products and services you need to ensure your fur babies are living their best lives. The store you shop at for pet food is now the same place they can attend doggy daycare, get vaccines, and enjoy a weekend stay fit for a King or Queen. Royalty Meets Midtown To celebrate, Royal Pets Market & Resort Plus Veterinary Center is rolling out the red carpet at their two-day grand opening event in Midtown. It's happening on Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19, from 11am to 4pm. When we say your pet is treated like royalty, we really mean it. Check out all the activities planned for the furry kids. Paw painting & pet caricatures Doggie pools & balloon artists Pawdicures & FREE vet exams Giveaways & goody bags Vendors and special offers Don't worry, there will be plenty of excitement for the entire family, so bring the two-legged children too. They can jump around in the bounce houses and visit food trucks. Make sure you get a Royal Pets Passport when you arrive and get it stamped as you visit vendors and tour the Kingdom for rewards. Royal Rewards Include Take a tour and get your passport stamped. You can earn these rewards: Free Goody Bag, a $25 value Free Microchip, a $49 value Free Vet Exam, a $68 value Free Day of Doggie Day Camp, a $35 value Free Barkery Treat, a $2.99 value Spa Nail & Ear Package, a $10 Savings Did Someone Say Discounts? Be prepared to shop, stay and play at Royal Pets Market. The market is enormous, with an impressive collection of pet products. You are guaranteed to discover your pet's new toys, Barkery treats, and stylish accessories. As you walk down the aisles of smiles, remember we have many Grand Opening treats and giveaways. If your pooch needs a break from shopping, take Fido to the carnival for fun activities and to splash in the puppy pool. Pet Salon and Resort Could this day get any better? The answer is yes. When you think you have done it all, remember the free pedicures at the full-service pet salon. At Royal Pets, the belief is that "All Pets Who Enter, Shall Leave as Royalty." Customer service is King for you and your pets. At Royal Pets Market & Resort Plus Veterinary Center, your feline is the Queen of the castle. Stop by and check availability for this summer. The 5-star pet resort where we treat your pets like royalty are built with the utmost comfort for every pet with large comfy beds, so when you go out of town, your pet can vacation too! Affordable Vet Care Last but certainly not least, swing by the vet clinic to meet the doctor and claim your pet's first free exam. The veterinary centers include on-site exam rooms, affordable vaccines, pharmacy, laboratory, and complete surgical suites. Annual wellness plans are also available for dogs and cats. Our wellness plans will save you a lot of money and keep your pet happy and healthy. Royal Pets Market & Resort is much more than cool toys and sweet treats. It's your pet's palace away from home. Stop by for a tour of the castle during the Grand Opening Weekend. Don't forget to bring your fur baby with you! Royal Pets Market & Resort Located in Midtown Tampa at 1102 N. Himes Ave., Tampa, 33607Wed, 15 Jun 2022 07:35:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/what-to-know-about-your-pet-and-tickshttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/what-to-know-about-your-pet-and-ticks Ticks are nasty little pests that can cause a lot of problems with our beloved pets. Ticks can cause disease by transmitting microbes and bacteria when they bite your pet or even yourself. Especially down here in Florida, we need to be more cautious when it comes to ticks and ensure that we constantly checking our furry companions.Ticks are sneaky creepy crawlies that can easily stay hidden under your dog’s long fur. It can even be difficult to find ticks on your short-haired dog! At Royal Pets Market & Resort, we wanted to give pet owners more information about ticks and how to deal with these pesky pests. Whether you have a dog, cat, or you are worried about yourself being bitten, you will want to get all the information you need to deal with ticks properly.Read on to learn more. If your dog or cat gets bitten by a tick and starts showing symptoms of illness, be sure to contact one of our locations to schedule a visit with our vets!What is a TickLet’s start with the basics — what is a tick? A tick is a spider-like bug that is egg-shaped and sucks blood. Ticks have eight legs and can be anywhere from one millimeter to one centimeter long. Ticks are commonly found in woodland, grassland, and field areas. However, they can also be found in your garden.Ticks attach to their host, suck their blood, and lay eggs, before releasing when they are full. While ticks cannot fly or jump, they can easily grab onto your dog or cat’s fur and bite them. Ticks climb to the top of grass and wait for a host to brush past before grabbing your pet’s coat. Ticks can carry and transfer disease, including Lyme disease and babesiosis.How to Look For TicksWhether you take nice sunset strolls through rolling grassland hills or you stick strictly to the sidewalk, you will still want to check your dog (and yourself) for ticks. If your cat spends some time outside, you will want to make sure to check them as well. Indoor cats can be less of a concern since they will likely never be in tick territory.Ticks are big enough to see, although you will likely have to part your pet's fur to actually spot them. It is very likely that you will feel a tick before you see it. If you are taking the time to search your dog for ticks, slowly run your hands over their body and pay attention to any bumps. There are some areas that are more common for ticks to be found, these include:In and around the earsUnder the front legsBetween the back legsUnder the collarAround the eyelidsBetween the toesAround the tailBe sure to feel all of these areas to search for ticks, but don’t only check these areas! Ticks can attach anywhere, these areas are only the most common places.Once you feel a bump, gently part your pet's hair to see if it is a tick. While you may think that it will be hard to tell for sure if the bump is a tick, it should be rather obvious since this bump will have legs and an egg-shaped body. The body will become darker and larger as it fills with blood.How to Remove a TickOnce you find a tick on your dog or cat, you will want to remove it as quickly as possible. Since ticks carry and transmit diseases, removing them right away can help reduce the risk of disease. Ticks on dogs and cats are removed the same way, just be sure to remove them right when you find them.There are a few things you want to be aware of when removing a tick from your pet. First of all, never squeeze the body. By squeezing the tick’s body, you could cause the blood to be pushed back into your pet, which increases the risk of infection. You also want to make sure you remove the entire tick and don’t allow the head to get stuck inside your dog.If the tick’s head gets stuck inside your pet’s skin, never dig around to try and remove it. This will actually increase the risk of skin infection in your pet. Like splinters, nature will take its course and push the tick’s head out eventually. You can apply antibiotic ointment to ensure reduce the risk of infection. Be sure to keep an eye on the area to make sure there is no skin rash, irritation, or infection. If something develops, be sure to bring your pet to the vet.Use tweezers or a tick removal tool, which you can find at any pet store, to remove the tick. If you use tweezers, be sure to get as close to your pet’s skin as possible, without hurting them. Squeeze the tick’s head tightly and pull straight upward, in a slow and steady motion. It may take more force than you would assume.Some vets suggest saving the tick in a jar or other container they cannot escape from for a while before disposing of it. If your dog or cat begins to show symptoms, you can bring the tick to see if it was infected with a disease. This is not always necessary, but it could be beneficial.What Disease Do Ticks TransmitThese nasty pests can transmit diseases to your pet, which is why it is so important to look for them and remove them instantly. Ticks can cause diseases including Lyme disease and babesiosis.Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be very serious. Symptoms include fever, lameness, swollen lymph nodes, swollen and painful joints, depression, and loss of appetite. If you begin to notice any of these symptoms in your dog or cat, especially after a tick bite.Babesiosis is a disease that incubates for about two weeks but many pets are not diagnosed for months or years. Symptoms include depression, pale gums, a swollen abdomen, and fever. They may also have a loss of appetite and skin may become yellowish. Again, if you notice any of these symptoms, bring your pet to the vet right away!There are many different types of tick prevention which can help keep your pets safe from these little pests. Hopefully, you now know more about ticks and will know what to do if you ever find a tick on your dog or cat. Be sure to contact Royal Pets Market & Resort in Florida to schedule a vet visit if your dog starts showing symptoms. We are happy to help!Tue, 18 Jun 2019 15:07:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/foods-you-should-never-feed-your-doghttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/foods-you-should-never-feed-your-dog It is always nice gathering around the table with family and friends to enjoy a meal together, sharing a laugh, and spending some quality time with one another. The dishes that cover the table all hold scrumptious foods that you are excited to dig in to. You look at the floor to see your pup staring at you longingly, hoping to get a few scraps from your plate. You reach for a piece of fatty meat that you cut off of your pork chop to give it to your furry friend. But stop right there!While those puppy eyes may be hard to say no to, feeding your dog scraps from the table is not only a bad habit but it can also be harmful to your furry friend. There are many human foods that your dog simple should not be given. While you may be giving your dog all of your scraps without another thought, we wanted to help give you more information so that you can keep your dog healthier!At Royal Pets Market & Resort in Florida, we love pets and want to help owners know how to properly care for them. We offer veterinary services along with our pet market, pet resort, and grooming services, making us the one stop shop for all of your pet needs! We can help you with a huge variety of services and give you the information you need to keep your pet healthy, happy, and living their best life.In this blog, we are going to talk about the foods you should not feed your dog. So, before you throw the fatty piece of meat in your dog’s food bowl, read this blog to learn what food you should avoid giving your pup. It could just help keep them safe and healthy.AvocadoWhile we all love avocados, they should never be fed to your pup. Avocado contains what is called persin. If your dog eats too much persin, it can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Persin is found in the skin, seed, fruit, and leaves of the avocado. You also will want to make sure your dog never eats an avocado pit, since it can become stuck in the stomach or intestines and could be fatal.AlcoholAlcohol has the same effect on your pup’s brain and liver and it does on you, however, it takes a lot less alcohol to harm your dog. Just a small amount of alcohol, whether it is beer, liquor, or food with alcohol in it can be bad for your furry friend. If you give your dog alcohol, it could cause diarrhea, vomiting, breathing problems, coordination problems, coma, or even death. Never give your pet alcohol, it could severely harm your dog.Onions and GarlicOnions, garlic, and chives are also harmful to dogs. They can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could cause red blood cell damage. If your dog consumes a large amount of one of these foods, it can cause poisoning. Some signs that our dog may be poisoned after eating onion or garlic include weakness, vomiting, and breathing problems. If your dog accidentally eats some of this vegetable or herb, be sure to bring them to the vet right away.ChocolateThis is a popular food that most dog owners know should never be fed to their dog. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is in all kinds of chocolate, but is strongest in dark and unsweetened baking chocolate. Theobromine is a stimulant that stops a dog's metabolic process and even a small amount of chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Large amounts can cause irregular heart function, seizures, and even death. Never feed your dog chocolate and be sure to keep it out of their reach. If they do eat chocolate, make sure to call your vet right away.Fat Trimmings and BonesWhen you are done with your t-bone steak, don’t give the fat trimmings and bone to your dog. The fat from meat, whether it is cooked or uncooked, can cause pancreatitis. It is tempting to give your dogs meat, but try to avoid it, at least the fatty parts. As for the bones, it may seem perfectly fine to give them bones to chew on since it is how their ancestors lived, but the bone may cause your pet to choke or leave splinters the get lodged in or puncture your dog’s digestive tract. Keep your pet safe and be sure not to feed them fatty meat or the bones!SaltSalt and salty snacks are also bad to feed your dog. If you feed your dog too much salt, it will cause them to become extremely thirsty, which will lead to excessive urination. Feeding your dog too much salt can also lead to sodium ion poisoning. Signs of this include diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, depression, high temperature, and seizures. It may even lead to death. Try not to share your salty snacks with your pet to help keep them safe!These are a few of the many foods that you should avoid feeding your dog. Others include:Macadamia nutsDairyBaconYeastRaw doughPeaches and plumsGrapesCaffeineXylitolTo keep your dog as healthy and happy as possible, avoid feeding them any of these foods. If you can't remember what foods your dog can’t have, just avoid feeding them table scraps all together! This will help with the bad habit of begging and keep their weight in check.If your pup eats something on this list and starts experiencing problems, be sure to contact our vets at Royal Pets Market & Resort. We can help take care of your dog and ensure they are healthy.Tue, 21 May 2019 14:59:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/what-your-pets-are-really-doing-when-you-are-gonehttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/what-your-pets-are-really-doing-when-you-are-gone We all have wondered it — what do your pets do when you are gone? Do they sit by the window waiting for you to get back? Do they sleep on the furniture even though they know they aren’t supposed to? Do they play with the toys that are scattered around your home? Are they angels that sleep and remain calm all day? Or are they mischievous and up to no good?This question is likely what started the pet cam revolution and caused owners to watch their pets from work, vacation, or while at dinner with friends. While these cameras took away the mystery of this one big question, they did give owners some relief knowing that their pets are not flying around the house and getting into everything they can.If you are a pet owner who has yet to invest in a pet cam, you likely still wonder what your pup or cat does while you are away. At Royal Pets Market & Resort in Florida, we have a few guesses of our own. Before we dive into those ideas of ours, we wanted to help you prepare your home for a space your pet could be alone comfortably. At our pet market, you can find all the essentials you need to make sure your pet is comfortable and properly cared for while you are at work or are running errands.Provide ComfortWhen your pet stays home alone, you will want to make sure they have a comfy place to sleep or lay down while they wait for your return. If you have a dog or cat bed for your pet, make sure they have access to it. If it is usually in your bedroom but you close the door while you are at work, then make sure that you take the bed out of your room and put it in an area where they can get to. If you don’t want your pets sleeping on furniture, then making sure they have a bed accessible is a great way to prevent this. Without a comfortable area to sleep, they may venture onto your couch while you are away.Provide EssentialsMake sure that your dog or cat has access to water as well. You will want to make sure that the water bowl is full every day before you leave. If you have multiple dogs, you will want to provide multiple bowls of water. Food is also something to consider. If your dog or cat eats all the food in their bowl at once, be sure to feed them their usual amount but don’t leave extra food in their bowl while you are gone. This will lead to them overeating and gaining weight. If your pet only eats when they are hungry, you can just leave food in the bowl and allow them to eat throughout the day. If your pet doesn’t eat in the morning while you are at home, leave their food out so that they don’t get too hungry throughout the day.A place for your pets to relieve themselves is also important when you leave them at home. Make sure your cat has access to a litter box and if possible add a doggy door to your backyard so that your dog can get out to do their business. If you have a doggy door, make sure your yard is fenced in so your dog doesn’t escape.Provide EntertainmentProviding entertainment for your pet can help them feel more comfortable at home while you are gone while also keeping them out of trouble. When your pet has something to keep them busy, they are less likely to feel bored and get into trouble. Stock up on toys, get your cat a scratching post or cat tree, and get interactive toys that make them work for treats. You can also leave the radio or television on for your pets, you may want to make sure that they like it first. While some pets may find it soothing others may not like it very much.Now that you know some tips for creating the best environment for your pet while they are home alone, we wanted to talk about some of the ideas we have about what pets do while we aren’t home.Goes WildHave you ever been cooped up in your home for a few hours with nothing to do? While humans have the luxury of finding something to watch on TV or reading a book, your pet does not have that same luxury. They are likely to get a little stir crazy, which causes them to run wild. Your dog may have the zoomies around your living room. Your cat may try climbing cabinets, furniture, and find themselves in areas you may never expect. This is why toys are important to keep them entertained!They Break All The RulesWhile you are home, you likely have rules for your pet. Some pets are smart enough to realize when to and when not to do certain things. If you don’t like your pets up on the furniture while you are home, they may enjoy some time relaxing on the couch while you are away. If you try to stop them from carrying around shoes and other objects that aren’t pet toys, they may find a shoe or couch pillow to carry around and cuddle with during their time alone. Fortunately, many of these actions will leave a trace, which means you can better prepare when you leave the home by hiding shoes and other objects and putting items on furniture to keep them off. Unless your pet is extremely sneaky, you will be able to tell if they are rule breakers.Befriend Neighbor PetsIf you have a doggy door and allow your pets to have access to your yard during the hours of the day you are gone, they may just befriend some neighbor pets. We like to think that animals can communicate with each other, like they do in the cartoon movies, because life is more fun when you picture dogs excitedly yelling “hello” at each other rather than just viciously barking as they pass each other on a walk. When your pets spend hours outside barking at the neighbor's dog or watching them from the fence post, we like to think they are getting to know each other and keeping each other entertained while their humans are away. Maybe neighborhood cats go on walks together, maybe the dogs chase each other along the fence because they are racing.Patiently WaitsThen there are some pets that will sit there calmly and patiently wait for you to return. They don’t want to cause trouble and don’t feel the need to go crazy in your home. They may sit by the window people watching and enjoy the world as it goes by while they wait, they may hide under your bed as they wait for the sound of your keys in the door, or maybe they lay outside in the grass, enjoying the sun. While we like to think that they play and enjoy their time alone, we are sure that most pets are patiently awaiting your return.These are a few of our guesses as to what your pets are doing while you are gone. While they are pretty simple ideas and extremely possible, the truth is that many of us will never know what our pets are doing. Pets who are being watched by pet cams may know they are being watched and act how they know they should be, which brings us back to the big question — what do our pets do while we are gone.Be sure to stop by one of the four Royal Pets Market & Resort locations in Florida. We can provide you with all of the essentials you need to keep your pet comfortable, entertained, and well-cared for while you are away.Fri, 10 May 2019 13:52:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/the-best-dog-breeds-for-familieshttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/the-best-dog-breeds-for-families Making the decision to add to your family is exciting. Whether you decide to try for another kid or you want to adopt a furry friend, this is a decision you surely won’t regret! When it comes to adding a dog to your family, you want to make sure you find the perfect pup to fit in with your family and lifestyle.While we believe that all dogs are perfect, there are certain dog breeds that are more family-friendly and great around the kiddos. If you have made the decision to add a bundle of joy to your home and adopt a pup, you may want to look for one of the dogs on this list! These breeds are outgoing and friendly, making them the perfect addition to your family.At Royal Pets Market & Resort in Florida, we can provide you with all of the pet supplies and services you need! Our market is full of all of the dog supplies you will need for your new furry friend, we also offer vet and grooming services, allowing you to get everything you need all in one place. Be sure to stop by our Apopka, St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, or Carrollwood location for all your pet needs.In this blog, we are going to talk about the best dog breeds for families! Read on to learn more and start the search for the new addition to your family.BeagleIf you are looking for a smaller sized dog to add to your family, a beagle can be the perfect choice. Beagles are loyal and high-energy. If you kiddos love playing outside, a beagle is a great choice, they love to play and explore the great outdoors. This dog breed is smart, happy, and friendly; they are sure to give your family a ton of love. Your kids will love being able to play with the pup nonstop. Beagles are also great with strangers and other pets as well. Not only is this a loving dog breed that thrives on companionship, but they can also help keep your kiddos moving and active since they love to play and need regular exercise.Labrador RetrieverLabrador retrievers are a great and popular dog breed for families. These dogs are lovable and extremely friendly, making them an excellent option for families with kids. Labs can be described as loving, patient, playful, and protective, which is everything you want in a family dog. They get along great with other animals and kids, and show love to everyone they meet. You can choose between a yellow, chocolate, and black labrador based on your preference. No matter what color you choose, you will get a companion that will love you unconditionally.Golden RetrieverThis dog breed is another popular option among families. Goldens are obedient and have a gentle temperament. These friendly pups are patient and affectionate, making them extremely good with children. Goldens love to play and are quite goofy, which will surely keep your family entertained. They are eager to please and easy to train, which is perfect for most families. Golders are playful and need to stay active, your kids will love running around outside with this silly pup.NewfoundlandWhile newfoundlands are very large dogs, they are amazing with families. This dog breed was given the nickname of “nanny dog” and “nature’s babysitter” because they are so great around children. They are considered to be one of the world’s most intelligent dog breeds. Newfoundlands love kids and are very protective of them. These gentle giants are kind and patient and are the perfect addition to any family. If you love big dogs and want a breed that is great with your kiddos, a newfoundland is the dog for you!Irish SetterAn Irish setter is a playful and energetic dog that is great for families. This dog breed plays well with kiddos and loves being around their family. They are on their best behavior when they are surrounded by their loved ones, and they hate being alone. If you have energetic kids, this is a great dog breed for your family since they need a lot of exercise. These beautiful dogs could be a great addition to your family and motivate you to keep moving.VizslaIf you have older kids, a vizsla is a great dog breed for your family. These energetic pups are gentle mannered and extremely affectionate. They are smart, obedient, and create close bonds with their family. If you are an active family, this is a great pup choice for you. They will surely help keep your family moving!CollieThere are several different dog breeds that are classified as collies. But in general, these dogs are gentle and extremely well behaved. These dogs are great for first time dog owners because they are easy to train and rarely misbehave. Collies are great with children and protective of their family. Collies can be a bit stubborn at times, which is why obedience school may be necessary with this breed.Bull TerrierWhile bull terriers may be considered to be aggressive, that is simply not the case. This dog breed was bred to be a companion. They are a loving and friendly dog breed that is great with adults and kids. While bull terriers can make great family dogs, they tend to be a bit mischievous, especially with it comes to other dogs. With proper exercise, you can keep them well behaved and out of trouble! These pups are entertaining and goofy, they are sure to give you and your family a few laughs.PoodlePoodles are great dogs for families with allergy sufferers. Their hypoallergenic coat can allow you to add a pup to your family without worrying about allergies. Poodles come in three different sizes, allowing you to find the perfect one for your family and home. The standard sized poodle is obedient, smart, adventurous, and playful. Miniature poodles tend to attach to one person but are great around kids and other pets. This is a caring and loyal breed that your family will love!MuttsMutts are great family dogs because they often show a mix of characteristics of the different breeds that they are. Mixed breeds could be a great choice for your family and they deserve just as much love as purebreds. If you decide to add a mutt to your family, be sure to talk to the animal shelter to find out which mutt will make the best addition to your home. They can help you find the perfect pup for your lifestyle.Now that you know a little more about the best dog breeds for families, it is time to start planning on your new addition! Be sure to stop by one of the Royal Pets Market & Resort locations in Florida to find all of the pet supplies you need! You can also bring your new furry friend in for vet and grooming services. Contact us today to learn more!Mon, 22 Apr 2019 11:46:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/the-importance-of-microchipping-your-pethttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/the-importance-of-microchipping-your-pet When you invite a pet into your home, they become so much more than just a pet. They become an important part of your family. Pets hold a special place in your heart and we will do anything to keep them healthy, happy, and safe. One of the best ways to keep your pets safe and protected is to get them microchipped.While we hope you know the importance of microchipping your dog or cat, we know that some people don’t see the importance of it. At Royal Pets Market & Resort, we care about pets and want to help you keep your pets safe and happy. With locations in Apopka, St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, and Carrollwood, we can provide you with vet and grooming services, as well as all the pet supplies you need! Be sure to stop by one of our locations for all your pet needs and read on to learn more about the importance of microchipping your pets!What Are MicrochipsBefore you get your dog or cat microchipped, you will likely want to know more about what they are. Microchips are tiny computer chips that are implanted under your pet’s skin. These microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and implanted using a large bore needle, similar to how a simple vaccination is injected.Each microchip has a unique registration number is associated with the owner’s name and contact information. This contact info is added to a pet registry service that is offered by the chip manufacturer and it can be read using a handheld reader that displays the information so owners can be identified.One thing that you should know before getting your pet microchipped is that the readers are not universal, so getting your pet chipped with a common brand is important. This ensures that the chip will more likely be able to be read if your pet ever becomes lost.The Benefits of MicrochippingNow that you know a little bit more about microchipping and what they do, it is time to look at some of the benefits! As a pet market and resort, we know that microchipping your pets is so important and we want to make sure you understand the importance as well! Even getting an indoor cat microchipped is important in keeping them safe.Permanent SolutionMost pet owners get collars and tags for their dogs and cats. The pet’s name, your address, and phone number are engraved on these tags to ensure that if they ever get lost, someone can help them find their way home. However, collars and tags have a few flaws. The collar can easily break off or get ripped off, leaving your pet without their important information. This makes it nearly impossible to help them find their way home. As for the tags, the information can wear off, making it hard for anyone to tell what it says. You also may not update the information on the tag when it needs to be updated, which makes this method basically useless.While collars and tags are a simple way for someone to get your information, they are not the most reliable method. Microchips are! They are permanent and provide your information no matter where your pup or cat ends up. If their collar gets ripped off or the tag has old information on it, the microchip will be a reliable backup.Ensure They Return HomeAccording to Petnet, the American Humane Society estimates over 10 million dogs or cats reported lost each year and sadly, a large number of those pets are never returned to their owners. While there could be a number of different reasons why these pets are not reunited with their families, one of the top issues is the fact that the contact information for the owner is unavailable.Having your pet microchipped greatly increases the likelihood that your pet is returned to you safely. If your pet ever runs away and becomes lost, a microchip can help someone find out who they belong to. The Petnet article mentions that cats with microchips are 20 percent more likely to be returned to their owners. Microchipped dogs are returned to their owners 2.5 more times than unchipped dogs. If your cat or dog ever becomes lost, knowing that they are microchipped will offer you some relief.Save Stolen PetsIt is sad, but pets can get stolen. If your dog or cat ever gets stolen, a microchip can provide definitive proof of ownership and help you get your pet back. This is especially important if there is a dispute over ownership over your pet. If your pet ever is stolen, you would hate to never see them again because you did not get them microchipped. You may be thinking that your pet will never be stolen, but it does happen and if it happens to you, you will want to make sure you have taken all the precautions so you can get your furry friend back!Enhanced CapabilitiesNowadays, microchips have advanced capabilities and functionality. You can have your dog’s microchip programmed with the doggy door, allowing it to open when they approach. This allows for other critters to be kept out of your home and help keep your home secure while still allowing your pets to go in and out as they please. As technology advances, your pet’s microchip will likely be able to provide a variety of capabilities that can make being a pet owner a little simpler. Some microchips offer lost pet alerts and travel assistance. When you choose your pet’s microchip, be sure to learn about the unique capabilities it has!Lasts ForeverMicrochips last a lifetime and once one is implanted in your pet, you will not have to worry about it. You will have to update the information when need be to ensure that your pet always has the correct information, but other than that you won’t have to give it a second thought. It may be a good idea to have your vet scan it from time to time to ensure that it is working properly.While we hope your pet never becomes lost, it is better to be safe than sorry. Having your pet microchipped is a quick and easy procedure that can help keep them as safe as possible. If your pet is not microchipped yet, you will want to take care of that as soon as possible. Your pet is part of your family and as a pet owner, we know you would do anything to keep them safe and healthy. Microchipping is one of those things! Get your furry friend chipped and be sure to stop by our pet market and resort to get all your favorite pet products, as well as vet and grooming services. With four locations, Royal Pets Market & Resort can help you with all of your pet needs!Mon, 15 Apr 2019 09:05:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/puppy-training-tips--part-twohttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/puppy-training-tips--part-two Training your puppy is a lot of work, but it is extremely important if you want your pup to be well behaved. In part one of this blog, we discussed tips for leash and potty training your new pup. In part two, we are going to talk about some of the common commands to teach your puppy in order to keep them well behaved.Be sure to stop by one of our Royal Pets Market & Resort locations in Florida to get all of the puppy supplies you need! We also offer grooming and vet services, allowing you to get it all done in one location. Stop by today and read on to learn some tips for training your puppy!Come CommandTeaching your pup to come is an important command. It can come in handy no matter where you are. To teach your pup to come, start in a quiet room and have your dog on the leash. Back away and say “come” once, but very enthusiastically. Have treats ready for when your pup finally makes it to you. You can show them the treats to encourage them to come towards you. Once your furry friend makes it to you, reward and praise them. “Come” is an extremely important command for your dog to learn, so you will want to make it exciting for them. Every time they come to you, celebrate and praise them. Slowly increase the distance to help your dog master this command.Sit CommandSit is a useful command and is often one of the first commands a dog learns. To teach them to sit, start with your puppy in the standing position. Hold a treat in front of your pups nose and raise it slowly while also moving it to the back of their head. As your puppy follows the treat with their nose, their butt will drop and they will end up in the sitting position. Once your pup gets to this position, praise and reward them. As your puppy starts to master this move, start adding a verbal command and hand signal for them to learn as well!Stay CommandStay is a great command to teach your pup as well. It can be used to get your dog to sit still and keep them safe from harm. To teach your dog to stay, simple start with them in the sitting or down position. Hold your hand out to your pup and tell them “stay.” After a moment of stillness reward them. Keep practicing until they begin to understand that they will get rewarded if they stay in a seated or down position. When you practice the stay command work on increasing the duration at which they can hold it, practice with distractions to help them master this command, and work on putting more distance between you and them while they continue to stay.Down CommandAfter you teach your dog the sit command, you can teach them down. Start with your pup in a seated position and hold a treat in front of their face. Move the treat straight down to the floor and then slowly pull it away from your pup. Your dog should move their feet forward to follow the treat and end up in the down position. Be patient with this command. Some dogs will simply stand up and walk to the treat. Keep practicing and be sure to reward them when they finally lie down. Add in a verbal command and hand signal once they begin to learn.These are a few of the most common commands that you will want to teach your puppy at a young age! Hopefully, this blog has helped you learn some simple tips to training your pup these basic commands. Be sure to stop by Royal Pets Market & Resort for all of the puppy supplies you need, grooming services, and vet services. Contact us to learn more!Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:03:00 -0700http://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/puppy-training-tips--part-onehttp://www.royalpetsmarket.com/blog/post/puppy-training-tips--part-one Welcoming a puppy into your family is fun and exciting, however, it can be a lot of work. Whether this is your first dog or you have had a pup in your life before, you should know that you will need to put a lot of effort into training this puppy. Puppies are a lot of work and if you don’t take the time to properly train them, they can become very misbehaved and hard to handle.That is why we want to help! Our team at Royal Pets Market & Resort loves pets and know some of the best training secrets that can help you turn your crazy pup into a well-trained companion. In a previous blog, we discussed some of the bad puppy habits that you need to break immediately. In part one of this blog, we are going to give you some training tips that can help you make your puppy even more enjoyable! Read on, be sure to stay tuned for part two, and be sure to stop by our pet market and resort for all your favorite pet items, grooming services, and vet services.Leash TrainingLeash training can be a challenge, especially with a puppy who is excited about the world around them. To get started, you will want to get your pup familiar with the leash and collar or harness. Make them wear their collar or harness and leash for short periods of time. You can keep them on the leash while you play with them inside and give them treats. You want your pup to learn that leash time is a good time!Teach your puppy a cue that you use when they are on the leash. Whether it is a cluck of the tongue, using a word like “yes,” or some other cue, pick something and follow this method. Bring your puppy into a quiet room with no distractions. Use the cue and when your puppy looks at you, reward them with a treat. Eventually, when your puppy hears the cue, they will start coming to you.As you start practicing using the leash outside, you will want to bring some treats along. As you walk, make sure to keep the leash pulled in so that they are walking close to you. If you notice that they are about to lunge at something or they are getting distracted, make your cue sound and reward them when they come back to you.If your pup pulls, don’t yank them back or let them drag you along. Instead, stop walking. Simply stand still until they come back to you. When they come back, reward them with a treat. Eventually, they will learn not to pull and stick closer to you.To teach your puppy to not bark at other dogs that you pass on a walk, make them sit and keep them focused on you. You can pull them to the side and let the other dog pass while telling them “no bark” and holding a treat so they can see it. Keeping them distracted and teaching them to not bark will help you avoid this bad habit as they grow older.When it comes to training your puppy on the leash, training treats are a must. Make sure that you are keeping your pups attention during your walks and pretty soon they will be experts on the leash!Potty TrainingHousetraining your pup is another challenge that you will want to master right away. While a puppy is going to have accidents from time to time, you can quickly potty train your pup with these tips.As you start potty training your puppy, you will want to keep them confined to a small area in your home, whether it is one room or a crate. As they become better housetrained, you can let them have more space to roam. This will not only help you keep track of where they have accidents in the house, but also allow you to keep them confined to an area that allows for easier cleanup, such as spaces with laminate, tile, or hardwood floors.When you start potty training your pup, you will want to keep them on a regular feeding schedule and be sure to take their food away between meals. Be sure to take your pup outside to relieve themselves after each meal.You will also want to be sure to take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after they wake up from their naps, and right before going to bed or leaving them at home alone. Throughout the day, you will want to bring them out regularly, about once an hour. As your pup ages, they will be able to hold it better and won’t need to go out so often.Every time you bring your puppy outside to relieve themselves, take them to the same spot. Smelling their own scent will prompt them to go. This is a great way to make sure they do their business every time you take them out. When your pup does go outside, be sure to praise and reward them.If you catch your pup in the act of relieving himself in the house, clap loudly so that they know they did something wrong and gently take them outside to let them finish. When they are done, praise them.If they do have an accident in the house and you find it hours later, do not yell or punish them. Dogs are unable to connect your anger with something they did hours ago, so they will not understand what they did wrong.You can also teach your puppy to scratch at the door or ring a bell hanging from the doorknob when they have to use the bathroom. To do this, have your puppy sit in front of the door and hit the bell or the door before you bring them out. Do this every time you bring them outside, reward them when they hit the bell or the door, and eventually, they will learn that this is a sign they want to go potty.These are a few of the most important pieces of puppy training that we know most new puppy owners will want to know! In part two of this blog, we will go over some of the other puppy training tips that will help make your puppy an A+ student! Be sure to stop by our pet store and resort to get everything you need for your new pup. Contact Royal Pets Market & Resort today to learn more.Wed, 27 Feb 2019 14:15:00 -0700