It’s hard to believe that someone would steal a person’s pet, but sadly, there are over two million cases reported per year - with fewer than 10% returned home. Even worse, it’s estimated that pet theft has risen by 31 percent since 2007. Today, we’re looking at why pets are most often stolen, how you can protect your pet and how you can reduce the possibility of a dog- or … [Read more...]
To Vaccinate or Not: That is (NOT) the Question
We live in a world of information. Some of that information is science-based, some of it is opinion-based. Never have we had so much choice in our lives and the lives of our pets. Recently, the arrival of the “anti-vax” movement has caused some pet owners to begin questioning the value (and potential danger) of vaccines. Manufacturers and veterinarians have come under … [Read more...]
Finding a Boarding Facility or Pet Sitter
That first time you travel without your pet can be a traumatic experience for both you and them. That's why it’s so important to develop a relationship with a boarding facility or pet sitter. Today, we’re looking at how to find the best option for your pet. Pet Sitters are those who come to your home one or more times per day (or perhaps even stay overnight in your home up … [Read more...]
Getting Ready for Your First Puppy
Times have changed since I brought home my very first puppy. I still remember how excited I was holding the squiggly bundle of fur in my arms as he looked up at me in total adoration. I wasn’t prepared for a puppy. I was young, I barely had the money for my own place, but I knew we would do just fine. Life would have been a lot easier if I knew then what I know now! Here … [Read more...]
Bathing a Cat—Safely
How to help your felines stay clean without causing harm to them—or you. The reality of being an ailurophile is that sometimes you have to bathe your cat; and the hard truth is that most felines don’t like being in water. For the most part, cats are pretty good at keeping themselves neat and tidy. Being super flexible, they can reach almost any spot, and don’t like to … [Read more...]
How to Find the Right Veterinarian
Establishing criteria beforehand will help you choose the best healthcare provider for your pets. Adopting a dog or cat involves more than just bringing a new pet into your home. There are many things to consider, including finding a qualified local veterinarian for your new pet(s). Selecting a veterinarian out of the myriad listings online can be a daunting task. To help, … [Read more...]
How to Stop Your Cat from Biting
The key is to not use your hands or feet as toys. “There is something about the presence of a cat that seems to take the bite out of being alone.” —Louis J. Camuti, author of “All My Patients Are under the Bed: Memoirs of a Cat Doctor” But what if your favorite feline is a biter? It can be quite shocking when you’re relaxed, stroking your cat and he suddenly bites your … [Read more...]
Water Fountains for Cats
Encourage your felines to drink more with recirculating water. Cat water fountains have been around for many years now and I can tell you from personal experience that if you have a cat, one could save you hundreds (possibly thousands) of dollars on veterinary bills each year. This is because Felis catus, a species that originated in the desert, typically needs some extra … [Read more...]