BLOG

Father’s Day isn’t just for dads of tiny humans—it’s also for the hardworking, ball-throwing, kibble-pouring, belly-rubbing dog dads who make life pawsitively awesome. Whether he's the type to roughhouse at the dog park or sneak snacks under the table, dog dads deserve a little extra love and appreciation. This Father’s Day, we’re wagging our tails in their honor—and sharing a few fun ideas to make it a day to remember. 5 Ways to Celebrate Dog Dad’s Day 1. Take Him (and the Pup) Out for a Drink Hit up your favorite dog-friendly brewery or café. Many places now welcome pups on patios and even have a dog menu so everyone can sip and snack in style. 2. Go on an Outdoor Adventure Spend the day hiking, paddleboarding, or exploring a local trail with your dog. Bonus points if you capture a few action shots for the scrapbook (or Instagram). 3. Gift Him Something Dog-Dad Approved Stop by Slobberbones or The Ark to pick up a curated gift pack—think custom cookies, branded hats or tees, or even a bottle of Bark-A-Rita for the pup. 4. Book a Spa Day for His Sidekick Show your appreciation by booking a grooming appointment for his furry best friend. A clean dog is a happy dog… and a proud dog dad. 5. Make it a Memory Print a photo of them together, schedule a dog dad + pup portrait session, or just let him sleep in while the pup snuggles up. Sometimes, it’s the small moments that stick. Father’s Day Specials at The Ark We’re celebrating dog dads all month long! Stop by to take advantage of: 20% OFF treats Father’s Day photos $5.00 OFF Baths Want to nominate a dog dad for a spotlight on our social pages? Send us a pic or tag us online—we love seeing our customers in action! This Father’s Day, give the dog dad in your life a high-five, a heartfelt thank you, and maybe a fresh tennis ball (for the dog, of course). He’s earned it.

When the temps go up, so does the fur! Summer isn’t just about staying hydrated—it’s about staying groomed. Proper coat care can make a huge difference in your dog’s comfort, especially as they shed, sweat (through their paws), and deal with summer heat and humidity. Here are our top summer grooming tips to help your pup feel (and smell) their best all season long. It’s Not Just a “Summer Cut” Some pet parents think shaving their dog is the best way to keep them cool—but for many breeds, that’s not the case. Double-coated dogs, like Huskies or Golden Retrievers, need their undercoat for insulation and protection from sunburn. What to do instead? Regular brushing to remove loose fur Undercoat deshedding treatments (we offer them!) Trims—not shaves—for long-haired breeds Stay Fresh Between Baths Heat + humidity + outdoor play = a dirty dog. But overbathing can strip natural oils, leaving the coat dry or irritated. We recommend: Baths every 4–6 weeks in summer Using a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo Our spa add-ons like shed control or skin & coat treatments Between baths, use dog-safe wipes or coat sprays to freshen up. Don’t Forget the Paws Hot pavement can burn paw pads, and long paw fur traps heat and debris. We offer: Paw pad trims Nail trims Paw balm treatments to protect and moisturize Schedule Smart: Groom Early, Groom Often Summer appointments fill up quickly, especially before big holidays and travel weekends. Book ahead to reserve your preferred time and groomer. At The Ark, we’re here to help every dog stay cool, clean, and comfy this summer. Whether it’s a quick bath or a full grooming session, we’ll treat your pup like the VIP (Very Important Pooch) they are.

Planning your summer vacation? Don’t forget your dog’s staycation! Whether you're headed to the beach, the mountains, or just visiting family, The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel is here to make sure your pup enjoys a little vacation of their own. Here’s your ultimate guide to prepping for summer dog boarding—so both of you can enjoy the break stress-free. Book Early, Relax Later Summer is one of our busiest seasons, and space fills up fast—especially around holidays like Memorial Day and July 4th. Booking in advance ensures your pup has a spot (and gives you first pick on upgrades like Bark-A-Ritas, Kongs, and extra cuddle time). Pro Tip: Booking 3–4 weeks out is ideal. What to Pack for Boarding We provide a comfy bed, bowls, and all the love—but if your pup has special needs, here’s what you might bring: Pre-portioned food (label each bag with meal & name) Medications with clear instructions Favorite toy or blanket for comfort Any special treats (especially if they have dietary restrictions) Please leave anything irreplaceable at home—we don’t want a chewed-up keepsake! Ease Separation Anxiety New environments can be tough on some pups. Help your dog settle in with these tips: Try a Daycare Trial: A few short visits before a longer stay builds familiarity. Stick to Routine: Keeping feeding and medication schedules consistent helps reduce stress. Pack a Scent from Home: A t-shirt or blanket that smells like you can be surprisingly comforting. Make It a Resort Stay We offer a variety of extras to keep your dog entertained and comfortable: Kongs stuffed with peanut butter CBD Calming Treats Bark-A-Ritas (yep, they’re dog-safe!) Playtime Packages with one-on-one attention Pup-sicles for hot summer days Let our team know what your dog loves best—we’re happy to tailor the experience. Final Checklist Before You Go Up-to-date vaccinations (required: Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella) Emergency contact info Boarding forms submitted A big goodbye belly rub! Whether you're away for a weekend or a week, your pup will be in great hands with our trained and caring team. Book today and make it the best summer ever—for both of you.

Play isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental to your dog’s health! Learn how pet daycare at The Ark supports physical fitness, social development, stress relief, and mental stimulation in our latest blog post.

At Slobberbones, we believe safety and style can go paw-in-paw. Choose from a variety of colorful collars and high-quality engraved ID tags that match your pet’s personality—and help ensure they find their way home if they ever get lost.

April is National Pet Month—a time to celebrate the joy, love, and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. At The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel, we believe every month should be about pets—but this April, we’re going all out to help you and your pup make the most of it! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, pampering experiences, or tasty treats, there are so many fun ways to celebrate with your dog. Here are some of our favorite ideas to make this month paws-itively unforgettable. Plan a Spa Day at The Ark Treat your pup to some serious pampering with a full-service grooming appointment at The Ark. Our award-winning groomers will leave your dog looking and feeling their best, whether it’s a fresh spring haircut or just a soothing bath and nail trim. It's self-care season—and pets deserve it too! Make New Friends at Doggy Daycare Social playtime is a great way for your dog to burn energy and have a blast! Book a few sessions of doggy daycare at The Ark, where your pup can romp with friends in our safe, supervised playgroups. Bonus: they’ll come home tired and happy. Explore Local Dog-Friendly Spots Spring is in the air—literally! Take your pup on a new adventure. Some of our favorite dog-friendly places in and around Chattanooga include: Greenway Farm Dog Park Stringer Ridge Reflection Riding Arboretum Huntsville Dog Spot Monte Sano State Park Campus 805 Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram if you go exploring! #TheArkAdventures Stop by Slobberbones for a Custom Treat No celebration is complete without a treat! Our friends at Slobberbones Pet Bakery & Bath are helping make National Pet Month extra sweet with custom in-house dog treats available all month long. Whether your pup prefers a peanut butter biscuit or a fancy iced cookie, Slobberbones has the perfect way to say “I love you.” Want something extra special? Ask about custom birthday cakes or themed treats to take your celebration to the next level!  Show Some Local Love National Pet Month is also a great time to support local pet businesses, rescues, and shelters. Follow, share, and shop from pet-friendly businesses in your community—and consider donating to or volunteering with a local animal rescue. Celebrate with The Ark & Slobberbones All Month Long! Whether you’re booking a spa day, joining us for daycare, or picking up a treat, The Ark and Slobberbones are here to help you make April extra special. Because to us, pets aren't just animals—they're family. Ready to celebrate? Book a service at The Ark or stop by Slobberbones today! Let’s make National Pet Month one to remember.

Dog Moms Deserve Treats Too: Celebrating Mother’s Day the Furry Way At The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel, we know one thing for sure—dog moms are something special. They’re the treat-givers, belly-scratchers, late-night potty walkers, and cuddle providers that make a dog’s world go ‘round. So this Mother’s Day, we’re giving a big tail-wagging shout-out to all the amazing pet mamas out there! Whether you’re a proud rescue mom, puppy raiser, or dog grandma, here are a few ways to celebrate in style—with your pup right by your side. Fun Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day (Dog Edition) 1. Take a Dog Mom Date Day Enjoy brunch on a dog-friendly patio, go for a nature hike, or treat yourself (and your pup) to a new toy and treat haul at Slobberbones . Don’t forget to snap a selfie for the ‘gram—we’d love to feature you! 2. Bake Together Whip up a batch of homemade dog treats, or swing by for a custom-decorated Mother’s Day cookie from our bakery case. Trust us, they’ll know it’s special. 3. Spa Day with Your Sidekick Celebrate with a bath or grooming service at The Ark. You relax, they get pampered. It’s a win-win! Looking to treat a fellow dog mom in your life (or drop a hint to your family)? Here are a few ideas: Personalized dog treats or cookies from Slobberbones Bakery A full-service groom for their favorite furry child Gift cards (for shopping, spa days, or boarding!) Cute collars, bandanas, or leashes Spa products like pet-safe paw balm or coat spray A custom Bark-A-Rita for a spa-day toast! A Shout-Out to Our Favorite Dog Moms! We see you every day—walking in with sleepy pups for daycare, sharing stories about your fur babies, and going the extra mile to make sure they’re healthy and happy. We’re grateful for you and proud to be part of your dog’s care team. Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at The Ark!

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, your dog is probably just as excited about spring and summer as you are—more walks, more sun, and more outdoor fun. But with all that sunshine often comes one less-loved part of pet parenthood: shedding. Seasonal shedding is totally normal, especially in the spring when dogs start to lose their thick winter coats. But that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to live in a cloud of dog hair. With the right grooming routine and a few simple tips, you can help your pup stay comfortable and keep your home cleaner. Why Do Dogs Shed More in Spring & Summer? Most dogs have a natural cycle of coat growth and shedding that’s influenced by daylight and temperature. As it warms up, their bodies know it's time to shed that heavy undercoat they developed for winter. This is especially true for double-coated breeds like Huskies, Labs, Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers. While some breeds shed year-round, the change of seasons can bring on a heavier “blowout,” especially in the spring. Tips to Manage Shedding This Season Bathe Your Dog Regularly A good bath helps loosen and remove excess fur before it ends up all over your clothes and furniture. Use a shed control shampoo and conditioner that hydrates the skin and helps release dead hair. Not sure what’s best for your pup? Our grooming team can help recommend the right products. Pro tip: Schedule a spa day! A professional bath and blowout can seriously reduce shedding and keep your dog feeling fresh. Brush Often (and With the Right Tool!) Brushing is your best defense against loose fur. Aim to brush your dog several times a week—daily during heavy shedding periods. For dogs with thicker undercoats, tools like deshedding rakes or slicker brushes work wonders. Not a fan of brushing battles at home? Let us do the heavy lifting with our deshedding grooming services. Feed a Healthy Diet A shiny coat starts from within! High-quality food packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids helps keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy, which can reduce excessive shedding. We carry a wide selection of premium dog foods and supplements that support coat health. Stay Hydrated Dehydration can lead to dry skin and more shedding. Make sure your pup always has access to fresh water, especially as the temps rise. Keep Their Environment Clean Regularly vacuuming your home and washing your dog’s bedding can keep fur from piling up. A lint roller or pet hair remover tool also goes a long way! When to Worry About Shedding While shedding is totally normal, excessive hair loss, bald patches, red or irritated skin, or constant scratching could be signs of an allergy, parasite, or underlying skin condition. If you notice anything unusual, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet. We’re Here to Help! Whether your pup needs a quick bath, a full grooming session, or a professional deshedding treatment, we’re here to make shedding season easier on both of you. Book an appointment or stop by for tips, treats, and coat care products recommended by our team. Here’s to a cleaner home and a happier, healthier pup this spring!

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, both you and your dog are probably eager to spend more time outdoors. Spring and summer bring plenty of opportunities for fun, but they also come with unique challenges for pet owners. From shedding winter coats to staying safe in the heat, here’s how you can prepare your dog for the warmer months ahead. 1. Schedule a Spring Grooming Session After a long winter, your dog may have a thick coat ready to shed. Regular brushing helps remove excess fur and prevents matting, which can be uncomfortable as temperatures rise. If your dog has a long or double coat, consider a professional grooming session to trim excess fur while keeping their natural protection against the heat intact. Tip: Regular brushing also reduces shedding in your home, so stock up on a good de-shedding brush! 2. Protect Against Pests Warmer temperatures mean fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are back in full force. These pests can carry diseases like Lyme disease, heartworms, and ehrlichiosis. Action Steps: Ensure your dog is on a vet-approved flea and tick preventative. Use a heartworm preventative, especially if you live in an area where mosquitoes thrive. Check your dog for ticks after walks in grassy or wooded areas. 3. Adjust Their Exercise Routine Longer, sunnier days make outdoor activities more enticing, but warmer weather also means adjusting your dog’s routine to avoid overheating. Hot Weather Tips: Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat. Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl on long walks or hikes. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion like excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. 4. Keep Up with Hydration Dogs need more water in the warmer months to stay hydrated. Always provide clean, fresh water at home and on the go. Hydration Hacks: Add ice cubes to their water bowl for a cool treat. Invest in a pet-friendly water fountain to encourage drinking. If your dog enjoys fruit, frozen watermelon or blueberries make refreshing snacks. 5. Protect Their Paws Hot pavement, sand, and sidewalks can burn your dog’s paw pads. Before heading outside, test surfaces by placing your hand on the ground—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pup! How to Protect Their Paws: Walk on grass or shaded paths. Consider dog booties for hot pavement. Apply a pet-safe paw balm to protect and soothe pads. 6. Ensure Their ID & Microchip Information is Updated Spring and summer often mean more outdoor adventures, but also a higher chance of your dog slipping out the door or getting lost. Checklist: Make sure your dog’s collar has an up-to-date ID tag. Verify that their microchip details are correct. Consider a GPS pet tracker for extra peace of mind. 7. Keep Parasites and Allergies in Check Springtime allergens like pollen and grass can cause itchy skin, watery eyes, and sneezing in dogs. If you notice excessive scratching or licking, consult your vet about allergy relief options. Common Allergy Triggers: Pollen, grass, and mold spores. Flea bites (even one bite can cause an allergic reaction). Certain foods or environmental factors. 8. Prepare for Travel & Outdoor Adventures If you’re planning a vacation or weekend trip with your pup, make sure you’re ready with travel essentials: Dog Travel Must-Haves: A well-ventilated travel crate or seat belt harness. Their favorite toys and a cozy blanket. A portable water bowl and dog-friendly snacks. Vet records in case of emergency. 9. Create a Cool & Safe Space at Home Even if your dog loves the sun, they need a cool retreat indoors or in the shade. Cooling Strategies: Provide a shaded area in the yard. Use cooling mats or elevated pet beds. Keep a fan or air conditioning on during extreme heat. Enjoy the Season Safely with Your Dog! Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to explore the outdoors, take longer walks, and enjoy quality time with your furry friend. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your dog stays healthy, happy, and comfortable all season long. Do you have any special warm-weather activities you enjoy with your dog? Share them in the comments!