Playful Pups Blog
A Lifetime of Love: The Story Behind Playful Pups Retreat
From as far back as I can remember, dogs have been an inseparable part of my life. My first dog, a sweet dachshund named Cinnamon, joined our family when I was just five years old. Later, when I was a teenager, a spirited Miniature Schnauzer named Gretchen became my closest companion. Looking back now, I…
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The Rise of Canine Anxiety—and What You Can Do
Scenarios Every Pet Parent of an Anxious Pup Knows All Too Well Does your dog freeze or tremble when meeting new people—maybe even growling or accidentally urinating out of sheer nervousness? Does your pup quake at the thought of new places, making you wish you could whisk them away on fun adventures together—only to be…
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Why Dogs Need Sleep—and Why They May Seem Sleepier After Boarding
Sleep is as essential to dogs as it is to people. Just like us, their bodies and minds need rest to stay healthy, balanced, and happy. Yet many pet parents are surprised when their dog comes home from a boarding stay—or even from traveling with the family—appearing more tired than usual. At Playful Pups Retreat,…
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Back to School Isn’t Just for Human Kids—It’s Time to Enroll Your Puppy, Too!
As families prepare for the back-to-school season—stocking up on supplies, setting new routines, and planning Fall sports schedules—don’t forget about the four-legged member of your household. While the kids are heading back to class, fall is the perfect time to send your puppy to school, too! Just like children, puppies thrive with structure, consistency, and…
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How Early Should You Book Your Dog’s Overnight Stay for Fall & Holiday Travel?
As the vibrant colors of fall roll in and the holiday season begins to take shape, many families are already planning their seasonal getaways. Flights are booked, hotels are reserved, and activities are being mapped out. But what about your dog’s vacation plans? At Playful Pups Retreat, a premium pet resort serving Central Pennsylvania, our…
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10 Ways We Keep Your Dog Cool, Safe, and Stress-Free During Summer at Playful Pups Retreat
Summer is one of the most exciting times of year for pups—longer days, more outdoor adventures, and plenty of playtime with friends! But with rising temperatures and booming seasonal sounds like thunderstorms and fireworks, it’s also a time when extra care is needed to keep our four-legged guests both cool and comfortable. At Playful Pups…
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What Kairos Time Taught Me About Being Present with Our Dogs
As a lifelong learner and someone who’s always striving to grow—both personally and professionally—I recently read 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. The book offers powerful insights for business owners, but one concept in particular stood out to me not just as an entrepreneur, but as a dog lover:…
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Why Dog Training is the Key to a Happy, Healthy Life for Your Pup
Training your dog isn’t a one-time event—it’s a lifelong journey that strengthens the bond between you and your furry best friend. Whether you’re raising a brand-new puppy, adopting a rescue, or living with a senior pup, ongoing training plays a crucial role in shaping a dog’s behavior, enriching their mind, and creating a life filled…
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15 Lessons I’ve Learned from the Playful Pups Retreat Journey
Fifteen years ago, I followed a dream—and a deep love for dogs—by opening the doors to what would become Playful Pups Retreat. At the time, I never imagined how many lives we would touch or how much this journey would shape me. Today, Playful Pups is not just a business; it’s a community built on…
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The Joys and Benefits of Water Play for Dogs
As the summer sun blazes, there’s no better way to beat the heat than engaging in water play with your canine companion. Not only does it provide a refreshing escape from the high temperatures, but it also offers numerous benefits for both dogs and their humans. Water activities are more than just fun—they can provide…
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