Merits of Canine DNA Testing: A Guide for Dog Parents
As a dog parent, you want to give your furry friend the best care possible. One helpful tool that’s becoming more popular is canine DNA testing. This simple test can provide valuable information about your dog’s health, breed makeup, and behavior traits. What is Canine DNA Testing? Canine DNA testing involves taking a cheek swab from your dog and sending it to a laboratory. Scientists then analyze your dog’s genetic material to learn about their background and health risks. Think of it as a family tree test for your pup, but...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Learning Paths, transport barriers and more!
Happy Tuesday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Find your perfect fit: Choose your Learning Path on Maddie’s UniversityWhether you’re just starting out in animal well-being or looking to level up your skills, our updated Learning Paths page on Maddie’s University® takes all the guesswork out of what to learn and sets you up for success. Each path contains content that covers a single topic so you can discover what you need and… Learn More How Field Officers are addressing pet...
Alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats
Explore alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats, including ozone, milk thistle, vitamin C, nutrition, and other therapies. Liver disease is common in dogs and cats, especially as they age. Conventional therapies are important, especially in acute cases. But options like ozone therapy, vitamin C, herbal support, and targeted nutrition can also be beneficial. These alternative treatments for liver disease in dogs and cats complement traditional care and may also improve outcomes and quality of life. Conventional therapies for...
Understanding Types of Seizures in Dogs
If you’ve ever witnessed your dog having a seizure, you know how scary and overwhelming it can be. As a caring dog parent, understanding the different types of seizures can help you better support your furry friend and communicate effectively with your veterinarian. What Exactly Is a Seizure? A seizure happens when there’s abnormal electrical activity in your dog’s brain. Think of it like a power surge that causes the brain’s normal functions to go haywire temporarily. These episodes can look very different depending...
Best scratching posts and cat trees
Find out what to look for in scratching posts, cat trees, and condos to keep your cat happy and your furniture safe. Includes tips on styles, materials, placement, and multi-cat household needs. Scratching is quintessential feline behavior. Satisfying this natural instinct means providing a selection of surfaces for your cat to scratch without resorting to your furniture. The ideal feline environment includes both horizontal and vertical surfaces, especially in a multi-cat household. Here’s what to consider for the best scratching posts...
How to Deal with Your Dog’s Escape Attempts
If you’ve ever come home to find an empty yard and a heart-stopping panic, you’re not alone. Many dog parents face the challenge of keeping their four-legged Houdinis safely contained. Why Dogs Become Escape Artists Dogs don’t escape just to make our lives difficult. Understanding the why dogs do that is key to solving the problem. Some dogs escape because they’re bored and looking for adventure. Others may be anxious when left alone or trying to find their family members. Certain breeds have strong instincts to roam,...
Keeping Your Dog Active Indoors: Fun Exercise Ideas for Any Weather
When the weather outside isn’t cooperating, or you’re stuck at home, keeping your dog physically and mentally active can be challenging. Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to help your furry friend burn energy and stay happy right inside your home! Mental Exercise is Just as Important Before diving into physical activities, remember that mental exercise can tire out your dog just as much as a long walk. Food puzzle toys are excellent for this. Hide treats around the house or use puzzle feeders during meal time....
Find your perfect fit: Choose your Learning Path on Maddie’s University
Whether you’re just starting out in animal well-being or looking to level up your skills, our updated Learning Paths page on Maddie’s University® takes all the guesswork out of what to learn and sets you up for success. Each path contains content that covers a single topic so you can discover what you need and get on with your day. BehaviorEverything you wanted to know about behavior! A series of collections with self-paced courses and resources on dog and cat behavior, body language, training, shelter care, program...
Slippery elm for dogs and cats
Slippery elm is an herb that helps ease digestive issues in dogs and cats, including diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Get safe usage tips, dosing guidelines, and veterinary advice. Digestive upsets in dogs and cats have many causes. If they’re persistent or recur often, it’s important to take your animal to the vet for a proper evaluation. For occasional short-term upsets, home remedies like slippery elm for dogs and cats can help relieve symptoms. Here’s what you should know about this herb and its benefits. What...
A Dissection of Why and How Dogs Protect Their Humans
Do you think guardian angels are for real? Do you know what’s undeniable? Guard dogs are real, and they mean business. Dogs have been loyal companions to humans for thousands of years. We have a time-tested link with dogs. Dogs have on numerous occasions put aside their survival instincts to save their human family. So, here are some intriguing questions: how do dogs perceive that their human is in danger, and how far will a specific dog go to protect his bipedal companion? How Dogs Sense Danger Dogs are incredibly good at reading...
