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...
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...
Settling the Debate: Wet or Dry Food for Cats?
Struggling with whether you should feed wet or dry food for cats? Fret no more! Here are the benefits of both and easy ways to feed a combination diet. Many cat parents struggle with choosing the right type of food. In reality, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to feline nutrition and feeding wet or dry food. But the good news is you don’t actually have to pick one over the other! When it comes to food types, each has its own advantages, and many cats benefit from a combination diet that includes both. Let’s...
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...
Massage & Myofascial Therapy for Cats
If you share your home with a senior cat or one recovering from an injury, you may be looking for gentle ways to support their comfort and healing. Massage and myofascial therapy are two hands-on techniques that are gaining attention in the world of integrative veterinary care — and for good reason. What Is Myofascial Therapy? You may be familiar with the idea of massage, but myofascial therapy is a bit different. Fascia is the thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, organs, and joints throughout the body. When a cat...
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,...
Deadline extended for this super short Rehoming Survey
Animal shelters and foster-based organizations across the country are navigating rehoming questions every day, and there is very little field-wide data to draw from. That is what the Rehoming Survey is designed to change. The deadline to take the survey has been extended to June 11! Home To Home is collecting responses from the animal welfare community to better understand how the field currently thinks about and uses rehoming programs. Whether your organization actively promotes rehoming, refers people to outside platforms, or takes a...
