The holidays can be challenging for all dogs, but for those who are anxious or fearful it is especially so. Though we love to have our dogs participate in holiday celebrations with family and friends, it may not be possible for an anxiety-prone pooch to share in the fun. Boarding your dog, or leaving him…
Paula Randazzo
End Bad Dog Bathroom Habits
Problem: Your new puppy isn’t potty trained. Solution: As a general rule, your puppy can hold it for the same number of hours as is his age in months. For instance, a 2-month-old puppy can hold it in for about two hours in his crate. Of course, that rule doesn’t always apply: If he’s 9…
Ehrlichiosis: What You Should Know About This Tick-Borne Disease
Ticks are trouble! We all know that they spread the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, but another tick-borne disease that is steadily increasing is ehrlichiosis. Once limited to western Texas, Oklahoma and Missouri, the incidence of ehrlichiosis is expected to rise in those areas, as well as in southern California and the southeastern United States,…
Dog Parks: Are They for Everyone?
Dog parks are a staple in America’s canine culture and serve as the go-to destination for many canines and their human companions. The doggie-designated zones, which are usually enclosed, have many benefits for well-balanced pups, including the freedom to run and explore as well as play, socialize and interact with other dogs and people. But…
Dog Behavior Decoded: Why Do Dogs Pant?
Have you ever seen a clever pooch wipe his face with a bandana on a particularly hot day? Probably not. Dogs are built to handle the heat very differently than their owners are. Dogs have very few sweat glands, so you won’t see one enjoying a sauna anytime soon. While they do sweat from their…
Cat Limping – How to Get Your Cat Back on His Feet
A number of things — infections, injuries, or arthritis — can sideline your cat, leaving him with a limp. Here is how to figure out what’s wrong and get him the help he needs. If you see that your cat is having trouble walking — even if it doesn’t seem like that big a deal…
Cat Health 101: Do You Know These 11 Subtle Signs of Feline Illness?
Though it might not seem that way to feline aficionados, the veterinary establishment considers cats to be subtle creatures. Indeed, when it comes to displaying signs of sickness, cats are masters of obfuscation and disguise. They simply do not want news of their diminished physical state disseminated. It’s been postulated that cats unconsciously behave this…
Can’t Take Your Best Friend on Your Trip?
When you’re looking for someone to watch over your pet when you travel, how do you decide which option is best? Start by asking your veterinarian for a list of recommended kennels and pet sitters. You can also search for local sitters on the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International websites.…
Bad Weather Blues: How to Keep You and Your Dog From Going Stir Crazy
Nasty weather outside? A trip to a local pet shop or dog-friendly store can be a fun outing for you and your pup. It’s pouring — again. Or it’s snowing — again. Or it’s 95 degrees in the shade and too hot for man or beast to be outdoors. Regardless of the meteorological predicament outside,…
Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis can be caused by injury, infection, the body’s own immune system, or developmental/hereditary abnormalities, and the treatments –– ranging from weight loss to medication to surgery –– are equally varied. But the most common form of arthritis is a degenerative process related to advancing age. But growing older doesn’t have to equal arthritis for…
