During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people turned to their animal companions to help them feel less lonely and isolated. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, wanted to learn what role animals played in helping those who had already survived the HIV/AIDS pandemic, and were now dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic […]
Human DNA testing technology has changed our approach to ancestry, health, and relationships. So it’s no wonder many pet owners would like to use that same technology to better understand their beloved dogs. If you’ve ever wondered what your dog’s parents (or grandparents or great-grandparents) may have looked like, dog DNA tests can give you […]
Senior cats, like all living creatures, experience changes as they age. Understanding these changes can help cat parents provide the best care for their aging feline friends. As cats age, their bodies slow down, and they become less active. They may also experience a decline in vision and hearing. These changes can make it difficult […]
Life transitions can be stressful, and our animal companions are affected as much as we are. Reiki is a non-invasive healing modality that can help. Stress comes under many guises, both positive and negative. Moving to a new home; dealing with a separation or bereavement; seeing a child off to college for the first time; […]
When creating a whelping box for dogs, you’ll need to measure for space, add comfortable bedding and set up a pet cam so you can discretely observe that everyone is OK. ©Dorling Kindersley Ltd/ Alamy Stock Photo A whelping box is your dog’s maternity ward to give birth to her puppies, and, thereafter, a nursery […]
“Give me two minutes and I’ll give you a new life.” This was the title for a 2020 video about Coco, a young Spanish Bulldog condemned to a government shelter in Spain. Deemed too aggressive for adoption, Coco was scheduled to be euthanized until one man arrived to offer him a second chance. In the […]
With his gorgeous coat, confident stride and soulful eyes, you just know that your dog was meant for the blue ribbon at a dog show. Too bad his lack of purebred papers prevents you from entering him — or does it? Can mixed breed dogs compete in dog shows Your mixed-breed dog can compete in […]
Whether your dog is athletic, great at following directions or more of a beauty queen, there’s a dog contest for her. © Sean Murphy/ Getty Images Show off your dog’s obedience skills, athletic abilities or cute smile at your local dog contest or grooming show. There’s no denying it—your dog is the cutest, smartest, most […]
Sun exposure can be harmful to anyone, including dogs. Dogs can get sunburned and sunburns can lead to more serious problems, such as cancer. Also, sunburns can exacerbate some medical conditions like auto-immune disorders. Dr. Dori Calloway of VCA Animal Hospitals says hairless and thin-coated dogs can sunburn if exposed to UV rays. Here is […]
Research shows that many dogs and cats — maybe even your own — struggle with health challenges such as joint pain, heart issues and skin and coat problems. In fact, experts believe up to 50% of dogs over the age of 7, and 70-90% of cats over the age of 12 are dealing with joint […]