Understanding Feline Vestibular Syndrome: Natural and Alternative Approaches for Cat Families
If your feline friend has suddenly started tilting their head, stumbling, or seems dizzy, they might be experiencing vestibular syndrome. This condition can be scary for cat families, but understanding what’s happening can help you provide the best care possible. What is Feline Vestibular Syndrome? The vestibular system helps cats maintain their balance and know where they are in space. When this system isn’t working properly, cats can experience dizziness, loss of coordination, and difficulty walking straight. Think of it like...
Holiday Hazards That Could Harm Dogs
The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. However, many common holiday items can be dangerous or even deadly to dogs. As a responsible parent, knowing about holiday dangers for dogs helps keep your four-legged family member safe during the celebration season. Dangerous Holiday Foods Many holiday treats that people enjoy can cause serious health problems for dogs. Chocolate tops the dangerous list – it contains substances called theobromine and caffeine that dogs cannot process properly. Dark chocolate...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Peer support, animal well-being survey and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. How one Missouri animal shelter is having success with their Dog’s Day Out programDoes your animal organization offer a Dog’s Day Out program? Maybe you’re thinking about starting one? These programs are an increasingly popular way to give dogs a break from the shelter while allowing volunteers to learn more about their personalities. Taney County Animal Care and Control in Hollister, MO, recently started a program of their… Learn More...
3 Common Dental Issues in Dogs
Dog parents want the best for our furry family members. But did you know that dental health plays a huge role in your dog’s overall well-being? Just like humans, dogs can develop serious dental problems that cause pain and affect their quality of life. Let’s explore the most common dental diseases in dogs and what you can do to help prevent them. 1. Periodontal Disease Periodontal disease is the most common dental problem affecting our canine companions. If your dog is over 3 years old, there’s an 80-90% chance they already...
Your Cat May Want to Escape the House This Holiday Season
The holidays bring excitement, visitors, and lots of activity to your home. While this makes for wonderful memories, all the hustle and bustle can create perfect opportunities for your cat to slip outside unnoticed. Here’s how to keep your furry family member safe and secure during the festive season. Understanding Why Cats Try to Escape Cats are naturally curious creatures, but they’re also easily stressed by changes in their routine. Holiday decorations, unfamiliar guests, unusual sounds, and new smells can make even the most...
How one Missouri animal shelter is having success with their Dog’s Day Out program
Does your animal organization offer a Dog’s Day Out program? Maybe you’re thinking about starting one? These programs are an increasingly popular way to give dogs a break from the shelter while allowing volunteers to learn more about their personalities. Taney County Animal Care and Control in Hollister, MO, recently started a program of their own. They’re sharing their experience and what they’ve learned along the way. “We did soft launch of the program last summer with some of our longer term volunteers,”...
5 Most Misunderstood Behaviors in Dogs
We love our furry friends, but sometimes their actions leave us scratching our heads. Many common canine behaviors are often misunderstood, leading to frustration for both dogs and their families. Understanding what your dog is really trying to tell you can strengthen your bond and help address any issues with compassion. 1. Excessive Barking Isn’t Just Noise When your dog barks constantly, it might seem like they’re being difficult. However, dogs always have a reason for barking. They use their voice to communicate excitement,...
Understanding Chronic Iron Deficiency in Cats with Digestive Problems
If you’re caring for a feline companion with ongoing stomach or intestinal issues, you might notice they seem tired or weak. One possible cause could be chronic iron deficiency, a condition that often goes hand-in-hand with digestive problems in cats. What Is Chronic Iron Deficiency? Iron deficiency happens when your cat’s body doesn’t have enough iron to make healthy red blood cells. Iron is like fuel for these cells – without enough of it, your cat’s blood can’t carry oxygen properly throughout their...
4 Healthy Cat Diet Tips to Prevent Obesity
These four key healthy cat diet tips will help you understand how to use food to keep your feline friend lean and full of energy! Obesity is a common health issue in cats. In fact, it’s estimated that over 60% of cats are overweight or obese. Luckily, it’s easy to prevent, and there are plenty of reasons you should take steps to do so. Excess weight can shorten their lifespan, reduce their quality of life, and cause health conditions like diabetes, joint problems, and heart and liver disease. Regular play and exercise are...
Supporting your peers without the heavy load
Animal well-being work is rewarding and often emotionally intense. Join us for a 30-minute panel discussion, “Pawsitive Peer Support: Helping Each Other Without the Heavy Load,” on December 16 at 12PM PT/ 3PM ET with Janet Hoy-Gerlach, PhD, LCSW, LISW-S, Director of Veterinary Social Work at Open Door Veterinary Collective. In the latest Doors Wide Open webcast series, we’ll explore how to support each other in ways that strengthen connection without adding emotional strain. You’ll learn practical tools for peer...
