Feeding schedule for dogs – making sure they eat at the right time
Consistent feeding schedules help dogs feel secure, support digestion, and reduce begging. Here’s how often to feed your dog and create a routine that works. Just like us, dogs thrive on routine. Knowing when meals are coming helps them feel secure and maintain good digestive health. Read on to learn why a consistent feeding schedule for dogs is so important. Why feeding times matter Regular feeding schedules help regulate your dog’s digestive system. They also make bathroom breaks more predictable. Feed your dog at the same...
Top dog food ingredients that cause allergies
Identify common dog food ingredients that can trigger allergies, including proteins, grains, and additives. Includes tips on elimination diets and safer feeding options. Caring for our dogs includes feeding them a diet that supports their health and well-being. A proper diet is even more important if your dog is prone to allergies, since many pet food ingredients can contribute to the problem. This article outlines the top dog food ingredients that cause allergies. The best way to determine if your dog is reacting to his food is to use an...
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors That Influence Cancer Risk in Dogs
Cancer is one of the most common health concerns in dogs today. According to veterinary experts, nearly 10% of all dogs in the U.S. will develop cancer in their lifetime. The good news is that some risk factors are within your control. Understanding what influences cancer development can help you make better choices for your dog’s long-term health. Sun Exposure Just like in humans, too much sun can be harmful to dogs — especially those with light-colored or thin coats. Areas like the nose, ears, and belly are particularly...
Best 9 foods for eye health in dogs and cats
Discover the top 9 foods that support eye health and vision in dogs and cats, plus easy recipes to nourish your best friend’s eyes naturally. Eye problems in dogs and cats range from cataracts and glaucoma to uveitis and progressive retinal atrophy. Take steps to protect your best friend from these issues by feeding him the best nine foods for eye health in dogs and cats. Top nine foods to support eye health and vision 1. Blueberries contain two eye-healthy carotenoids: lutein and zeaxanthin, sometimes called...
Voices, Words, and Canine Minds: How Dogs Understand Us Beyond Speech
Voices Without Words One study demonstrated that humans can guide dogs using vocal cues alone, without relying on specific words. By adjusting pitch, rhythm, and emotional tone, people were able to influence canine behavior. This means that even if a person doesn’t use formal commands, their voice can still carry instruction. For families, it’s a reminder that everyday speech—whether playful, soothing, or firm—has a direct impact on how dogs respond. Wired for Voices Another fascinating discovery is that mammals,...
New campaign celebrates health benefits of companion animals
People are suffering from record levels of stress and loneliness. A new initiative reminds us that companion animals help us live healthier, more connected lives. In February, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) introduced The Real Reason for Pets. This new national campaign celebrates the health benefits of companion animals. It connects decades of scientific research with the everyday moments that define life with dogs, cats and other animals. “We start with research that shows the measurable mental, physical...
Dog First Aid Basics: What to Do in an Emergency Before Reaching Your Vet
What to Pack in Your Dog’s First Aid Kit Being prepared for an emergency means having the right tools close at hand before you ever need them. A well-stocked canine first aid kit is essential for every dog guardian. Your kit should include basic medical supplies like sterile gauze pads, self-clinging bandages that won’t stick to fur, and adhesive tape to secure dressings. Blunt-nosed scissors are necessary for safely cutting away bandages or tangled debris, while tweezers can easily remove stingers or ticks. Keep an antiseptic...
How FIP can help us better understand human coronaviruses
Researchers at the University of California, Davis, recently discovered new insights into feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). Significantly, they found how FIP can help us better understand human coronaviruses. The study reveals how FIP spreads through a cat’s immune system and infects a wider range of immune cells than previously believed. This finding provides a valuable model for studying long-term coronavirus disease in humans. A mutated form of feline coronavirus causes FIP, one of the most devastating infectious diseases in...
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...
