Dog Hydration on the Go: What to Pack for Year-Round Walks, Hikes, and Travel with Your Pup
Want better ways to keep your dog hydrated on the go? Check out these dog hydration tips to help them drink more when you’re on the move! Keeping your dog well-hydrated helps regulate their body temperature, supports joint and organ function, and prevents dangerous issues like heat exhaustion. When you’re traveling or exercising together, dog hydration is even more important. However, it can be challenging to make sure your dog drinks enough on the go. Here are some great tips for your adventures at any time of year! Equipment...
Bringing Home a Shelter Dog
Bringing home a shelter dog is an exciting and rewarding experience. Understanding what to expect during those first weeks can help you and your new companion start off on the right paw. Creating Routines and Building Trust When your shelter dog first arrives home, everything is new and possibly overwhelming for them. Consistency is your best friend during this transition period. Dogs thrive when they know what to expect, so establishing a predictable daily schedule helps them feel secure in their new environment. Set regular times for meals,...
Superfoods and Ancient Grains for Dogs: Rethinking What’s in Your Pup’s Bowl
Discover why you should consider adding superfoods and ancient grains for dogs to their bowl today! What your dog eats is more than just calories to fill their belly—their food also impacts their health, happiness, and vitality. Modern pet parents understand the importance of feeding balanced, protein-rich meals, but what about other ingredients that can benefit health? Ancient grains and superfoods have been nourishing humans and animals for thousands of years. These time-tested ingredients deliver powerful nutrition that supports...
Constipation in Cats: Who Got Me Blocked?
When your feline companion struggles with constipation, it can be uncomfortable and concerning for both of you. Understanding natural ways to prevent and manage this common digestive issue can help keep your cat healthy and happy. What Is Constipation? Constipation happens when your cat has difficulty passing stool or doesn’t have regular bowel movements. You might notice your cat straining in the litter box, producing small or hard stools, or going less frequently than normal. Some cats may show signs of discomfort or avoid the litter...
How one animal organization had success with “snowcations” during snowstorms
We know that short-term foster care can have immense benefits in helping lower stress levels in shelter dogs. Research shows that just a one or two night stay away from a shelter can drastically reduce dogs’ cortisol levels. And upon returning to the shelter, cortisol levels returned to baseline. Meaning the short-term foster sleepover essentially serves as a break or vacation for them. Charlotte-Mecklenberg Animal Care and Control (CMACC) has had a thriving staycation and daycation (field-trip) program for several years. But with the...
How fresh food slows aging in dogs
Groundbreaking study shows fresh, minimally processed food promotes healthier aging in dogs We’re always looking for ways to optimize our dogs’ health and longevity. Feeding a fresh, minimally processed dog food plays an important role in promoting health and slowing the aging process. Dr. Heather Huson, Associate Professor of Animal Sciences at Cornell University, recently concluded a groundbreaking year-long study. It examined the effects of feeding senior dogs fresh, human-grade food versus a standard extruded kibble...
Understanding Physical Care Challenges for Senior Dogs
Caring for an aging dog comes with unique challenges that can be difficult for guardians to navigate. As your canine companion enters their golden years, they experience changes that require your attention and understanding to maintain their quality of life. Pain Hides in Plain Sight One of the toughest challenges is recognizing when your dog is hurting. Since dogs can’t tell us what bothers them, we must become detectives, watching for subtle clues. Your dog might start sitting more often, holding their back in an unusual way, or...
Why Is Your Cat Limping? Common Causes Explained
When you notice your cat suddenly limping or moving stiffly, it’s natural to feel worried and confused. Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, so when they show visible signs of pain or difficulty moving, it’s important to pay attention. Common Signs to Watch For Your cat might show limping in several ways. They may avoid putting weight on one leg, walk with a stiff gait, or seem reluctant to jump up on furniture they normally enjoy. Sometimes cats will lick or chew at a specific leg or joint. You might also notice them moving...
Why Ashwagandha Always Ranks in the Top 4 Most Popular Adaptogens for Pet Stress
Anxiety and stress are increasing in dogs and cats. Learn why ashwagandha is one of the top 4 adaptogens for pet stress and why KSM-66 is the safest and best ashwagandha for pets. Stress and anxiety are becoming increasingly common among today’s dogs and cats. In fact, canine and feline stress is a growing concern for pet parents, with one pet insurance provider reporting a 93% increase in anxiety-related claims between 2019 and 2025. Left unaddressed, chronic stress is linked to behavioral challenges and long-term health issues,...
Join us virtually for the My Dog is My Home Conference next month
When a person loses their home, they experience trauma and grief. Their pet may be their sole source of love and support. For a person experiencing homelessness, losing their pet can make one of the most difficult times in their life even more painful. Yet, with few emergency facilities offering pet-inclusive housing, it’s a decision so many people feel forced to make. We know pet-inclusive solutions to homelessness are not only possible, they already exist. Maddie’s Fund® is a proud sponsor of the annual My Dog Is My Home...
