New fact sheet on the importance of pet-inclusive housing
We know that across the country, many people face tough choices due to housing restrictions, often having to give up their pets. In an effort to both show the importance of and help advocate for more pet-inclusive housing, a new fact sheet was just created for the Opportunity Starts at Home Campaign. The sheet shares that only about 9% of all rental housing allows pets without breed, weight, and size. “This research does not specify low-income/subsidized and does not include the use of nonrefundable fees, so likely fewer units meet...
Cat Obesity: Simple Solutions for a Healthier Feline
When feline care is under focus, one topic stands out: obesity. A plump, lounging cat looks cute, but the truth is far more serious. Obesity poses significant health risks to our beloved companions, leading to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. The good news? With a few adjustments, you can guide your feline friend toward a healthier lifestyle. Understanding Obesity in Cats Recognizing obesity is the first step. A cat is considered obese when it’s 20% above its ideal weight. Factors contributing to this condition include genetics,...
APA! Encourages People To Adopt During PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week
Mar 24, 2025 AUSTIN, TX – MARCH 24, 2025 – Pets are family, and can bring hope, companionship and unconditional love to their people. Adopting a pet in need of a home can bring joy to people and also impact communities, alleviating strain on overcrowded shelters. That’s why Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) will bring adoptable pets to the Southpark Meadows Petsmart, 9300 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78748, on March 29 and March 30 from 12 pm to 3 pm for PetSmart Charities® National Adoption Week, taking place March 24 –...
How to Find Sensory Toys for Blind and Deaf Dogs (And Why You Should)
Sensory toys are a great way to engage blind or deaf dogs in play, which can keep them more relaxed and confident. Sensory loss can happen in any dog, but blind and deaf dogs still have other highly developed senses, and it’s both possible and important to teach them how to play. In fact, play and toys can help blind and deaf dogs adjust to their new reality, get used to their environments, be more relaxed, and have an overall better quality of life. Let’s look more closely at the benefits of play and some of the best sensory toys...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Camp Maddie Kitten Edition recordings, reduce hyperarousal in shelter dogs and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. The February Weekly Community Conversations grant giveaway winner is…Earlier this month, Maddie’s Fund® gave one organization at random a $5,000 grant for attending the February Weekly Community Conversations! Join us in congratulating Jo Lunsford from Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund in Lebanon, KY! In addition to the Community Conversation grant, one grant was given away for monthly participation on Maddie’s® Pet Forum. Bravo…...
Lost Pets, Found Faster
[embedded content] Every year, countless pets go missing, but how effective are our current reunification efforts? This webinar explores solutions to improve lost pet reunification rates and keep lost pets out of kennels. Join us March 13th at 1pm/CST as Ashley Shrewsbury, Pet Reunification Specialist at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control as well as Gina Botticello, Community Partnerships and Programs Manager at PASCO County Animal Services, discuss insights into making reunification faster, easier, and more effective Source:...
Bonding Critters with Dogs and Cats
Bringing a new critter into a home with dogs or cats can be a daunting task. The natural instincts of these animals often lead to a predator-prey dynamic, but with the right approach, harmony can be achieved. Understanding which critters can coexist peacefully with your canine or feline companions is essential for a happy household. The Right Combination Matters When considering a new critter, the combination of personalities plays a crucial role. Certain dog breeds, especially those bred for hunting, such as terriers and hounds, may not be...
APA!’s Shelter Pet Hospital Wish List
Mar 20, 2025 Since April of 2024, we’ve seen the reality of new facilities begin to take shape, with the ground breaking of our future APA! Shelter Pet Hospital. Now we are nearing the end of the construction of our hospital, built to serve the pets in APA!’s care, whether located at the shelter or in a loving foster home. With the walls up, the utilities on and the dedicated spaces meticulously planned, we need help furnishing the building with items like a stainless steel table, lockers, and shelving. We are looking to our...
Cloudy Eyes in Cats
As a devoted companion to your feline friend, noticing changes in their vision can be alarming. Cloudy eyes, also known as corneal opacity, often signal underlying health issues that deserve attention. Here’s an insightful examination of the causes of cloudy eyes in cats and natural remedies to help restore clarity. What Causes Cloudy Eyes? Cloudiness in a cat’s eyes can stem from various factors, including age-related changes, injuries, and diseases. Feline cataracts, a condition where the lens becomes opaque, typically occurs in...
The February Weekly Community Conversations grant giveaway winner is…
Earlier this month, Maddie’s Fund® gave one organization at random a $5,000 grant for attending the February Weekly Community Conversations! Join us in congratulating Jo Lunsford from Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund in Lebanon, KY! In addition to the Community Conversation grant, one grant was given away for monthly participation on Maddie’s® Pet Forum. Bravo to Mary Garcia from Spring Branch Rescue in Richmond, TX for winning the $3,000 monthly grant. But wait, there’s more! In celebration of Maddie’s...
