Sedation vs anesthesia in dogs and cats
Having your dog or cat undergo sedation or anesthesia can be scary. But it’s often important to her medical care. Veterinarians use both to keep animals calm, pain-free, and safe during procedures ranging from surgery to dental work. The main difference between sedation vs anesthesia in dogs and cats is how deeply they affect consciousness. “Very light sedation may look like a sleepy pet that’s still sitting up and responding to you,” explains Dr. Courtney Baetge. She’s the clinical associate professor at the...
Spay/neuter age by dog breed and size
Timing matters when spaying or neutering your dog. See how age, breed, and hormones can influence cancer risk, joint health, and long-term well-being. Spaying and neutering help prevent dog overpopulation, especially in shelters. However, having these procedures done at the wrong age can impact your dog’s long-term health. Research shows that spay/neuter age by dog breed and size plays a key role in the risk of certain cancers and joint disorders. Study shows link between spay/neuter, cancer and joint disorders As dog population control...
5 Top Supplements for Cognitive Health in Senior Dogs
As your dog gets older, you may start to notice some changes in their behavior. Maybe they seem confused in familiar places, or they’re wandering the house at night. These can be signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) — a condition similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support your senior dog’s brain health, and supplements are one piece of that puzzle. Here are five supplements that veterinary experts suggest may help support cognitive health...
Herbal tinctures for dogs and cats
Find out how herbal tinctures can help your dog or cat with anxiety, pain, and digestion. Expert insights on safety, sourcing, and specific herbs. Tinctures are liquid herbal extracts designed to deliver concentrated doses of bioactive compounds. They’re made using alcohol or glycerin. Herbal tinctures for dogs and cats are gaining in popularity. They offer a natural, gentle, fast-acting remedy for conditions like anxiety, joint pain, and digestive issues. Defining and understanding tinctures Veterinarian Dr. Kathryn...
How to Help Your Dog or Cat Overcome Grooming Anxiety
Many dogs and cats experience grooming anxiety because of stress, sensitivity, or past experiences. Learn the causes, common mistakes, and calming solutions. For some dogs and cats, grooming is far from a relaxing spa experience. From unfamiliar tools and sensitive skin to past negative experiences, many animals feel stressed or fearful during brushing, bathing, nail trims, and other grooming routines. Understanding what causes grooming anxiety is the first step toward helping your furry friend feel more comfortable. In this article,...
Understanding your dog’s personality with Five Element theory
Learn more about your dog’s personality through TCM’s Five Element theory. Uncover how Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water archetypes shape behavior, emotional balance, and your bond. Do you sometimes wish you had x-ray vision so you could see into the deep recesses of your dog’s behavior and personality? Understanding your dog’s personality with the Five Element theory is like having x-ray vision. It’s a fun way to learn “why your dog does what they do.” The Five Element theory comes from...
Organ-Specific Care for Your Dog: A Guide to Keeping Every Part of Your Pup Healthy
The Liver The liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your dog’s body. It helps with digestion, filters toxins from the blood, produces important proteins, and stores energy. Because the liver has many jobs, problems with it can affect your dog’s overall health in a big way. Common liver problems in dogs include: Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) Liver shunts (abnormal blood flow around the liver, more common in certain breeds) Fatty liver disease, often linked to obesity Toxic damage from certain...
Camping with your dog checklist
Camping with your dog this spring? Use this complete checklist to pack essential gear, prepare for health and safety needs, and ensure a smooth, stress-free outdoor getaway. Camping with your dog is a great way for you to bond while having fun. Like all new experiences, it pays to be prepared. Take a look at this camping with your dog checklist. It’ll help ensure you’re prepared for a safe and relaxing adventure together. Pack essential gear for your dog When camping, your dog’s gear is as important as your own....
Holistic Approach to Cystitis in Dogs
If your dog has ever had a bladder infection, you know how uncomfortable it can be for them — and how stressful it can be for you. Cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder often caused by a bacterial infection, is one of the more common health issues seen in dogs. While traditional veterinary treatment is always the first line of defense, many dog parents are curious about natural and holistic approaches that may help support their dog’s urinary health. First, Know the Signs Before exploring holistic support, it’s...
How to bond with a new cat
Adopting a new cat? Bond with her using trust-building tips, body language cues and playtime strategies to help her feel safe and secure. Our cats are more than just furry presences. They are the graceful, constant heartbeat of our homes. If you’ve recently adopted a new kitty companion, start building a strong bond with her right away. When you give her understanding, time and space, she can form a deep, meaningful connection with you. Here’s how to bond with a new cat. 1. Start by giving her safety and security When you...
