Lungworm in Cats: What You Should Know
TL;DR Lungworm is a parasitic infection in cats that can lead to breathing issues and other symptoms. You can help prevent it by regularly deworming and limiting outdoor time. Treatment options include standard medications and some natural remedies. Always check with your vet for the right diagnosis and treatment. Lungworm is a parasitic infection caused by tiny worms that live in a cat’s lungs and airways. The three main species that affect cats are Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior, and Eucoleus aerophilus. While...
8 Effective Strategies to Control Canine Obesity Starting Today
TL;DR Canine obesity is a big health concern, but it’s manageable. You can help your dog slim down by measuring food accurately, reducing treats, adding veggies, switching to a weight-loss diet, and gradually boosting exercise. Always consult your vet before starting any weight-loss program. In the U.S., nearly 60% of dogs are obese, that’s a staggering figure! Extra weight puts a strain on your dog’s joints, heart, lungs, and other organs, and it can even shorten their lifespan. Controlling obesity translates to longevity...
Helping Pets Adjust to New Homes: the 3-3-3 Rule
Oct 07, 2026 Whether fostering or adopting, bringing a dog or cat home from a shelter is a beautiful beginning, but for your new pet it can also be a lot to process. A dog who was playful and affectionate with staff may be quiet and withdrawn in its new home. A cat who seemed curious in the shelter may spend the first several days hiding under the bed. Sometimes, an animal who appears confident suddenly seems nervous, unsure, or even a little overwhelmed. This doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong, it may simply mean your new pet...
Aggression in Cats: How to Identify Stressors and Create Peace
TL;DR Cat aggression often stems from stress, fear, or competition for resources. Pinpointing the source of stress and ensuring each cat has its own space and necessities can help lessen aggressive behaviors and create a more peaceful home for your furry friends. When you see two cats snuggling one moment and then hissing the next, you know how perplexing their behavior can be. Aggression is actually one of the most frequently reported issues among cats at vet clinics. The silver lining? It’s usually manageable if you can grasp...
Red Light Therapy for Chronic Paw Licking in Dogs
TL;DR Red light therapy, or photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that might reduce skin inflammation and aid healing in dogs that constantly lick their paws. Although research is still emerging, early findings are looking hopeful. Be sure to consult your vet before trying any new treatments. If you’ve ever seen your dog obsessively licking their paws, you know how worrying and frustrating it can be. That constant licking can lead to red, irritated skin, and even infections. In vet terms, it’s often called...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: The legacy of Rich Avanzino, access to care and more!
Happy Monday. Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. A man with a purpose: The enduring legacy of Rich AvanzinoThe animal well-being community lost a true visionary on September 20, 2026. Rich Avanzino, affectionately and widely known as the father of the ‘no-kill’ movement, passed away peacefully at the age of 84. While we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader, we also celebrate a remarkable life dedicated to transforming the animal… Learn More When people can’t access care, what happens to...
Common Heart Stenosis Problems in Dogs
TL;DR Heart stenosis in dogs refers to a narrowing within or around the heart, making blood flow difficult. There are different types, and many dogs are born with these issues. Early detection, regular vet check-ups, and proper care can significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life. What Is Heart Stenosis? Heart stenosis is basically a narrowing in the heart or its blood vessels, forcing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood throughout the body. For dogs, this condition is usually congenital, although some types can develop...
Natural and Alternative Approaches to High Blood Pressure in Older Cats
TL;DR High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious issue for older cats that can harm their eyes, kidneys, brain, and heart. While medication is often a must, there are natural ways to help manage the condition. Always collaborate with your vet before making any changes to your cat’s care. High blood pressure is one of the big health challenges for older cats. It’s often connected to kidney disease and hyperthyroidism, two pretty common issues in senior felines. If blood pressure stays high for too long, it can really do a...
5 Stress Reduction Techniques for Dogs
TL;DR Dogs can get stressed for a bunch of reasons, but the good news is there are practical ways to help them chill out. Creating routines, setting up safe spaces, using positive reinforcement, and consulting your vet can make a big difference. Why Does My Dog Get Stressed? It turns out, stress in dogs is more common than you might think. They can feel anxious due to loud noises, unfamiliar faces, being left alone, or even slight changes in their routine. If your dog seems stressed, you might notice signs like panting, shaking, barking too...
Asparagus: A Safety Net Fostering Success Story
Sep 30, 2026 Asparagus has been flexible about nearly everything in his life so far: several foster homes, a flood, a transport plan that’s changed more than once. That kind of flexibility also exemplifies Austin Pets Alive!’s Safety Net Fostering program: temporary care that flexes to fit whatever the situation demands, so a dog never loses the home he has waiting for just because the path there got complicated. Asparagus’s story began on the side of a road in Crystal City, Texas, where he was abandoned with his...
