Disaster response for animal control
We know that animals are part of every community, and all communities are subject to disaster at some point. Animal Control Officers (ACOs) play a vital role in disaster response, often serving as the first line of support for displaced animals and impacted communities. Our new online self-paced course, “Disaster Response for Animal Control,” provides the knowledge and tools necessary to respond effectively to emergencies while prioritizing the safety of both people and animals. After successfully completing this course you will...
Essential oils for Lyme disease and tick-borne infections in dogs
Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme are on the rise. Find out how high-quality essential oils can help support your dog’s immunity, relieve pain, and protect his vital organs. Now that spring’s here, it’s time to think about protecting our dogs from the surge in ticks and the diseases they carry. Essential oils for Lyme disease and tick-borne infections in dogs are gaining attention as a complementary approach to supporting canine health during tick season. Tick-borne diseases are proliferating Diseases carried by...
Homeopathy as a Complementary Cancer Support Tool for Dogs
When a beloved dog receives a cancer diagnosis, it can feel overwhelming. Many dog parents find themselves searching for every possible way to support their furry family member through treatment. One area to be explored is homeopathy — a system of natural medicine that uses highly diluted substances to support the body’s ability to heal itself. What Is Homeopathy? Homeopathy is based on the idea that “like cures like.” This means that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy body might help relieve those same...
The healing power of touch: mindful grooming as canine massage
Mindful grooming transforms routine care into therapeutic canine massage. It eases stress, supports physical comfort, and deepens the bond between you and your dog. For many dog parents, grooming is a routine task. But when you approach it with intention, grooming becomes far more meaningful. Mindful grooming as canine massage becomes a therapeutic ritual. It nurtures your dog’s emotional well-being, supports physical comfort, and deepens your bond. In grooming salons, veterinary clinics, and integrative wellness practices,...
5 Useful Herbs for Recurring Hot Spots in Dogs
If your dog seems to always have a red, raw, irritated patch of skin that just won’t stay away, you’re not alone. Recurring hot spots — also called acute moist dermatitis — are one of the most frustrating skin conditions dog parents deal with. While conventional treatments work well for many dogs, some people are turning to herbal medicine as a complementary approach to help manage flare-ups and support skin health. Here’s what you need to know. What Are Hot Spots, Exactly? Hot spots are moist, inflamed areas of...
Are retractable dog leashes safe?
Understand the risks, common injuries, and recommended safety tips before using a retractable leash for your dog. When walking your dog, it’s important to use the right gear for safety and comfort. A lot of people opt for retractable leashes. But are retractable dog leashes safe? Read on for a comprehensive look at the problems surrounding this leash type, along with tips for safe use. How retractable leashes work Retractable leashes have a spring-loaded mechanism that allows the leash to extend and retract. This gives dogs...
Fourth of July Fireworks: Keeping Your Dog or Cat Safe This Holiday
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but for many dogs and cats, it can be one of the most frightening nights of the year. The loud bangs, bright flashes, and strange smells of fireworks can cause real fear and anxiety. Here is what you need to know — and what you can do about it. Why Fireworks Are So Scary Dogs and cats have much sharper hearing than humans. What sounds like a fun celebration to us can feel overwhelming and threatening to them. Some animals develop a true phobia, meaning their fear goes beyond just being...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Behavior assessments in shelters, veterinary guides from Open Door and more!
Happy Monday. Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Behavior Assessments in Shelters: Building Better Outcomes for DogsWe hope you can join our June Maddie’s® Monthly Behavior Connection webcast with Vanly Griffith, Dog Behavior Coordinator at SICSA in Dayton, OH. This call will be all about organizations developing a structured system to get to know the dogs in their care. Structured dog behavior assessments help shelters shift from reacting to behavior concerns after… Learn More 2 resources from...
Why do cats knock things off counters?
What makes cats push things off counters and shelves, plus simple ways to redirect this common feline behavior. Why do cats knock things off counters? If you share your home with a kitty, you’ve probably watched in disbelief as they deliberately pushed your phone, keys, or favorite mug right off the table or counter. Cats commonly engage in this behavior, and understanding why they do it can help you manage it better. Natural hunting instincts Even well-fed indoor cats are natural-born hunters. When your cat paws at objects on...
IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM DR. ELLEN JEFFERSON: Protecting Texas Pets from the New World Screwworm
Jun 14, 2026 As cases of New World Screwworm infestation grow, we want to keep our supporters informed as fast we can. We are very concerned about the lives of pets in Texas. What we see during disasters like this is that pets in shelters are often forgotten about or seen as “unfortunate casualties.” Our job has always been to ensure that doesn’t happen. Consequently, right now, Austin Pets Alive! is enacting emergency measures to deal with the growing disaster of the New World Screwworm infestation in parts of Texas and New...
