The Role of Interactive Toys in Reducing Anxiety and Aggression in Dogs
It’s hard on pet parents when dogs act out of aggression or anxiety, but these behaviors communicate a problem you must address. Sometimes, the problem might be physical, like pain or discomfort. However, these behaviors can also stem from stress. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to relieve stress-related aggression and anxiety, and interactive toys are an excellent tool at your disposal. Supporting Dogs with Anxiety Canine anxiety comes in many forms, and outward signs and symptoms include: Hiding or retreating to a corner or...
Learn how to bridge your animal organization’s services and strengthen your community
Looking to strengthen your community but not sure where to start? In a recent Maddie’s® Community Conversations call, the team from the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) shared how breaking down silos between animal control, outreach and animal shelter services can transform the way we support both people and pets. Chief Animal Control Officer Jennifer Toussaint and her colleagues, Adam Jablonski and Karina Swetnam, walked us through how collaboration looks in action – like field officers connecting families to...
Do Dogs and Cats Have a Paw Preference
Just like humans can be right-handed or left-handed, dogs and cats can also show preferences for using one paw over the other! This fascinating behavior is called “laterality,” and it’s more common in our furry friends than many realize. Paw Preferences in Dogs Research shows that many dogs do favor one paw over the other when performing certain tasks. You might notice this when your dog: Gives you their paw on command Reaches for treats or toys Steps down from stairs or ledges Tries to hold down a chew toy Paw Preferences...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Social work guidelines, stock images and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Pets and People Photos is now Images With HeARTIn case you missed it, we’re excited to share that PetsandPeoplePhotos.org has merged with Images With HeART, and will be known as such moving forward. Originally launched in 2023 as Pets & People Photos, #ThanksToMaddie, the site was developed to help animal organizations better connect with their audiences through diverse images for marketing. The collection… Learn More Doors Wide Open Webcast: Social...
Can cats drink milk?
Find out why most adult cats are lactose intolerant, how milk affects their digestion, and healthier alternatives you can offer instead. Can cats drink milk? Most kitties love it, and in the past, people regarded milk as a traditional food for housecats. But it’s not really a good idea. In fact, veterinarians and other feline experts don’t encourage feeding milk to cats. Let’s find out why. Don’t kittens need milk? Kittens depend on milk — but only from mother cats. By the time they are four to ten weeks old,...
Stress-free bathing tips for anxious dogs
Learn why some dogs hate bathtime, along with 5 steps you can take to make it more enjoyable for your pup. Dogs need regular baths, but unfortunately, some pups hate them! Unfamiliar scents, slippery surfaces, and the sensation of losing control make baths unpleasant for many dogs. These factors often cause resistance, nervousness, and even fear. “Luckily, you can help your dog feel more comfortable with baths. Use gentle methods, positive reinforcement, and stress reduction techniques. Let’s explore why your dog might...
Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs
Chocolate is dangerous for dogs. But do you know why? Understanding chocolate toxicity can help you keep your furry friend safe and know what to do in an emergency. Why Chocolate is Toxic to Dogs Chocolate contains two harmful substances called caffeine and theobromine. These are called methylxanthines. While humans can break down these chemicals easily, dogs cannot. When dogs eat chocolate, these toxins build up in their system and cause serious health problems. These chemicals mainly affect your dog’s nervous system and heart. They...
Heartworms in Cats: What Every Cat Parent Should Know
You might think heartworms only affect dogs. But here’s an important fact: cats can get heartworms too. While it’s less common than in dogs, heartworm disease can be serious for our feline friends. Let’s explore what you need to know to keep your cat safe. What Are Heartworms? Heartworms are parasites caused by Dirofilaria immitis. These worms can grow quite large – males reach 5-6 inches and females can grow 10-12 inches long. They live in the heart and lungs, which is why they’re so dangerous. How Do Cats...
Turn Your Passion for Pet Health into Profit with Raw Diets for Dogs: The Way They Were Born to Eat!
Raw diets for dogs boost health and happiness—earn money partnering with a company that delivers raw meals right to your door! Dog parents are always looking for the best and healthiest foods for their fur babies. And while there are plenty of options on the market, including tons of trends and fads, the ideal food for any dog is one that meets their ancestral needs. Raw diets for dogs are biologically appropriate and provide our canine companions with everything they need to live healthy, active lives. We Feed Raw is on a mission to...
Pets and People photos is now Images With HeART
In case you missed it, we’re excited to share that PetsandPeoplePhotos.org has merged with Images With HeART, and will be known as such moving forward. Originally launched in 2023 as Pets & People Photos, #ThanksToMaddie, the site was developed to help animal organizations better connect with their audiences through diverse images for marketing. The collection shows authentic interactions of people and pets of varying ages, backgrounds and more, and has received an overwhelmingly positive response since its launch. “To...
