Using Positive Reinforcement to Help Reactive Dogs
Reactivity in dogs is a common issue pet parents face. These pups are over-stimulated by sights, sounds, smells, people, and other dogs, usually because they’re afraid. They lunge, bark, growl, and become so focused on the stressor that they don’t listen and become difficult to control. What’s more, while reactive dogs aren’t necessarily aggressive, they can become aggressive. Training a reactive dog can be tough, but positive reinforcement is an effective, humane tool you can use to help your dog manage their...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Candid Conversations, Open Arms Challenge preparation, and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. The 2024 Open Arms Challenge preparation begins in FebruaryJoin us for the 2024 Open Arms Challenge! This Challenge is all about opening our hearts and minds to more accessible and inclusive practices. Maddie’s Fund® is partnering with 24 national organizations to encourage animal shelters, foster-based organizations and public charities to pilot new approaches that welcome your entire community during the month of April.… Learn More Candid...
Ashwagandha: a powerful natural ally against arthritis in dogs and cats
Getting old is no joke. Particularly when it comes to creaking joints and aching bones, those telltale signs of arthritis. Now imagine this pain and discomfort – without a voice to tell anyone about it. It is up to us, as pet parents, to recognize the symptoms of osteoarthritis and any other joint issues commonly associated with canine and feline aging – and to find solutions to their pain. That’s where KSM-66 Ashwagandha for arthritis in dogs and cats can help, since studies show that the root of this herb has powerful...
4 Reasons to Try Mobile Veterinary Services
With the rise of mobile veterinary services, pet parents are finding it easier than ever to provide the best possible medical care for their fur babies. This is especially important in rural areas where access to services can be limited. Mobile veterinary services are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s not just because dog and cat parents want convenience. The growing trend of mobile clinics arose in part to combat the lack of accessibility in certain areas. At the same time, at-home services are great for anxious or reactive...
Does Your Dog Have Heart Disease?
Heart disease in dogs is more common than you might think. But earlier detection, along with an understanding of the role diet, supplements and lifestyle changes play in cardiac health, can help dogs live longer. Heart disease is commonly associated with humans, but it affects our dogs too. In fact, nearly eight million dogs in the US have heart disease — that’s one out of every ten canines. Recent research also indicates that up to 75% of dogs aged seven and older will develop some form of heart disease. These statistics are...
They’ve Given Birth in The White House, and Other Fun Facts About the Golden Retriever
If you’ve ever had a dog or have loved ones who have owned one, there’s a decent chance it was a golden retriever. These affable pups are very popular family dogs, and, according to American Kennel Club registration statistics, have been in the top 5 breeds in the United States every year over the past decade. It’s no surprise that such a beloved breed would have their own day of recognition. February 3 is National Golden Retriever Day, so let’s mark the occasion with some fun facts about these accomplished – and...
How to Teach Your Dog to Talk Using Speech Buttons
Have you ever wished you could understand exactly what your dog wants all the time? Have you ever wondered how complex your pet’s thought processes really are? If only you could take a peek inside their brain! Well, you may be able to do just that (sort of) if you’ve got a lot of patience and a true desire to communicate with your pet and listen to what they’re saying to you. Find out how here! Photo: YouTube/What About Bunny You may have seen videos in recent years of dogs and cats pressing buttons arranged in hexagonal...
Guinness Record in Doubt as World’s Oldest Dog Investigation Unfolds
Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal, was celebrated worldwide as the oldest dog ever, having reportedly lived for 31 years and 165 days. His remarkable age, exceeding the previous record set by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, by over two years, stirred both admiration and skepticism, The New York Times reports. But recent doubts about Bobi’s age have prompted the Guinness World Records (GWR) to conduct a formal review, leaving the dog’s legendary status in limbo. Photo: Facebook / Guinness World RecordsBobi was a Rafeiro do...
Florida Police Department Spoils Retiring K9 With Sweet Treat
There is only one proper send off for a retiring K9 officer and it involves a bowl and a lot of whipped cream. Fort Walton Beach Police Department announced the retirement of their K9 Bane and went on to thank him for his years of service in a post on Facebook. The department also rewarded the devoted K9 with a large bowl of whipped cream at the end of his last shift and wished him a long and happy life in retirement. They wrote, “After giving his all for the past 5 years, one of our goodest boys, K9 Bane, is medically retiring. We are...
Kitten Struck By Car Needs Your Help To Get Emergency Surgery To Walk Again
Meet Francine. She has had a rough start to life. The six-month-old tabby kitten was found severely injured on the side of the road in California after being hit by a car. Francine was rushed to a local veterinary clinic who discovered she has a fractured pelvis and tail and needs emergency surgery. They reached out to a cat rescue they worked with in the past called The Rescue House to see if they were able to help this little feline. Photo: The Rescue House The no-kill cat rescue agreed to give Francine a second chance. The sweet kitten...
