Crystalluria in Cats
Have you ever heard your veterinarian mention the word crystalluria? Don’t worry — you’re not alone! Crystalluria simply means that crystals have been found in your cat’s urine. While this might sound alarming, understanding what it means can help you take better care of your feline friend. What Is Crystalluria? Crystals can form in urine when certain minerals or other substances build up in higher-than-normal amounts. These crystals are usually spotted during a routine test called a urinalysis, where a small...
Journey of Lifesaving
Sep 03, 2026 Donate Now In 2009, Austin charted a bold new course. The City Council passed a resolution directing staff and the Animal Advisory Commission to construct a No Kill plan — a blueprint that Council unanimously adopted just months later. This plan became the North Star guiding every step forward. Austin Pets Alive!’s safety net programs, combined with a close partnership with the municipal shelter and a compassionate community, built the roadmap that made transformational lifesaving possible. By 2011, Austin reached a...
How reflexology helps dogs
Find out how reflexology may help reduce stress, improve circulation, and support your dog’s overall health naturally. Our dogs play a closer role in our lives than at any other time in human history. Many people now view their dogs as family members. They also want access to safe health solutions for their dogs that address root causes and not just symptoms. Reflexology is one of those solutions. Here’s how reflexology helps dogs. Understanding reflexology Reflexology involves the theory that the feet, hands and ears of a...
Common Allergens in Cats: What Every Cat Parent Should Know
If your cat has been scratching more than usual, losing fur, or developing skin issues, allergies might be to blame. Just like humans, cats can develop allergic reactions to things in their everyday environment. Understanding common allergens can help you take better care of your feline companion and know when it’s time to visit your veterinarian. Environmental Allergens One of the most common allergy conditions in cats is called Feline Atopic Skin Syndrome (FASS). This condition is triggered by allergens found in the environment...
4 Natural Ways to Support Gut Microbiome Health in Dogs
If you’ve been hearing a lot about the “microbiome” lately, you’re not alone. Scientists and veterinarians are learning more every day about how the trillions of tiny bacteria living in your dog’s gut affect their overall health. From digestion to mood, a healthy and diverse microbiome can make a big difference in your dog’s life. The good news? There are some simple, natural things you can add to your dog’s diet to help support it. What Is the Microbiome? The microbiome is the community of bacteria...
Why Living with Animal Companions Is Good for You (and How to Strengthen Your Bond)
If you share your home with a dog or cat, you already know how good it feels to come home to a wagging tail or a purring companion curled up beside you. But did you know that science backs up what you already feel in your heart? The bond between humans and their animal companions is genuinely good for your health — and there are simple ways to make that connection even stronger. The Science Behind the Smile Research from the University of Michigan found that 75% of people say their animal companions help reduce stress and give them...
The 5 most popular Community Conversations of the last 2 years
In its earliest form, Community Conversations launched in 2020 as a place for well-being professionals to collaborate and connect during the Covid pandemic, an unprecedented time in history. In 2022, it officially became “Community Conversations.” These 50-minute calls are a collaborative place to connect with peers in the industry, share exciting new programs and research on a variety of topics including foster, access to veterinary and behavior care, community partnerships and more. Plus, each month we award up to...
Holistic arthritis relief for cats
Help your arthritic cat feel more comfortable with holistic care options, including nutrition, supplements, acupuncture, herbal remedies, and supportive home changes. Recognizing pain in cats can be challenging, especially when arthritis causes chronic discomfort. Even veterinarians often overlook signs of pain in cats. This is partly because some kitties won’t show discomfort in stressful situations, like being at the vet’s office. Many cat parents don’t realize their felines are in pain until arthritis noticeably...
Common “Hypos” and “Hypers” in Canine Health
As a dog parent, understanding your furry family member’s health can feel overwhelming. One helpful way to know common canine health conditions is by grouping them. For example, “hypos” (meaning too little of something) and “hypers” (meaning too much of something). Here’s a breakdown of some of the most important hypos and hypers to know about. Common “Hypos” in Dogs Hypothyroidism is actually the most common thyroid disorder in dogs — the opposite of hyperthyroidism. The thyroid...
A Holistic Approach to Managing IBD in Dogs
If your dog has been diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), you know how hard it can be to watch them struggle with vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. IBD is a chronic condition where the digestive tract becomes inflamed, making it difficult for your dog to absorb nutrients properly. The good news is that a holistic approach — one that looks at the whole dog, not just the symptoms — can make a real difference in quality of life. What Is IBD? IBD occurs when the gastrointestinal (GI) tract stays inflamed for more than...
