When Cancer Strikes Your Cat: Recognizing Signs and Fighting Back
It’s a fact of life that even beautiful creatures like cats can face cancer. Lymphoma, skin cancers, and mammary tumors top the list of cancer threats. However, early action can turn the tide toward healing and precious time together. What Signals to Watch For Lumps that weren’t there yesterday. Sudden weight loss stealing the fluff and life from their frame. Appetite fading or struggles while eating. Odd behavior or sudden mood shifts. Each subtle sign carries a heavy message begging for veterinary attention. Trust these signals...
Dog posture and health
Did you know your dog’s posture is key to her overall health and mobility? Spot abnormal posture and find simple ways to help her stand strong and move with ease. When we think about our dogs, we usually picture them playing, walking, or running. But being able to “just stand there” is also key to health and soundness — not just for dogs, but for all animals, including humans. In this article, we look at the link between good dog posture and health. What it takes to “just stand up” Does your dog flop...
Dental Issues Steal Years from Your Dog’s Life
That familiar doggy breath can be dismissed as normal. But behind that foul odor is an epidemic affecting 80-90% of dogs over three years old. Periodontal disease doesn’t just steal your dog’s smile, it steals precious years from their life. Bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream. These invaders attack the heart, liver, and kidneys. Your beloved companion suffers in silence while their organs slowly deteriorate. The tragedy? This entire nightmare is preventable. Your Dog’s Mouth is Vulnerable Plaque forms within...
Don’t miss “The Human Side of Shelter Work: Building Compassion Satisfaction and Resilience (Part 1)”
Working in animal shelters can be deeply meaningful and emotionally draining. That’s why our next Maddie’s® Monthly Behavior Webcast is so important. Join us on Thursday, September 25th at at 12PM PT/ 3PM ET for The Human Side of Shelter Work: Building Compassion Satisfaction and Resilience (Part 1). In this session, Valerie Bogie, MSSW, Veterinary Social Worker, defines key terms while sharing fresh strategies to help you to increase your well-being and continue the work you are so passionate about! Attendees will learn: The...
Hydrotherapy for Arthritis in Dogs
It’s a terrible ordeal to watch your beloved companion struggle with stiff, painful joints. Every cautious step, every reluctant movement signals their plea for relief. While arthritis affects up to 40% of dogs, there is hope in an effective remedy: water therapy. Gentle Healing with Water Hydrotherapy harnesses water’s natural healing power for arthritic canines. This gentle therapy reduces joint stress while building strength. Water supports body weight, making movement easier and less painful. The buoyancy effect decreases...
What to Know About APA!’s Position on the Repeal of Austin’s Spay Notification Ordinance
Sep 08, 2025 Starting October 1, Austin Animal Center (AAC) will have the option to spay visibly pregnant dogs and cats without first notifying rescue partners like Austin Pets Alive!, something that has not happened since 2019. The decision to repeal the ordinance that gave rescue partners the opportunity to take in visibly pregnant shelter pets was proposed by an Austin City Council Member as a cost-saving ordinance change. Despite a complete lack of community stakeholder processes, the Council approved the item in the FY26 Budget. There...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Upcoming webcasts, Community Conversations and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Tailoring protection with vaccination protocols for every patientStill have questions about the new vaccination guidelines established in 2024? Need an update on the recommendations for neonatals in your program? Join Dr. Erica Schumacher, Outreach Veterinarian & Clinical Instructor at the Shelter Medicine Program at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine on Tuesday, September 23 at 12PM PT /3PM ET for… Learn More Mark your...
Natural pain management for dogs and cats
Design a natural, drug-free pain management plan for your dog or cat. Combine therapies like acupuncture, herbs, and massage for lasting relief. When our dogs and cats are in pain, we naturally want to give them quick relief. Whether it’s arthritis, muscle stiffness, or lingering discomfort from an old injury, chronic pain takes a toll on an animal’s quality of life. Pharmaceuticals like NSAIDs and opioids have a place in veterinary medicine. But many dog and cat parents are seeking safer, gentler, drug-free ways to manage pain,...
Canine Skin Flare-Ups vs. Ancient Ayurveda
Dog parents should know that conditions like folliculitis and eczema can be extremely discomforting for dogs. However, nature has not left beings alone. There are gentle, time-honored remedies on offer to restore peace and balance. Ancient Ayurveda teaches us skin woes reflect imbalances—especially in pitta and kapha energies—hinting that healing lies in calming fire and balancing moisture with appropriate treatments. Natural Remedies Can Bring Relief Today and Tomorrow In Ayurveda, skin inflammation signals excess heat and...
Managing Aggression in Dogs? Try Ashwagandha for Stress and Anxiety Relief
Managing aggression in dogs requires a comprehensive approach, and ashwagandha should be included to reduce aggressive behavior caused by pain, stress, or anxiety. Aggression in dogs is often misunderstood, but it’s never about a dog being bad. More often, it’s a response to pain, stress, or anxiety. These underlying issues can trigger behaviors like growling, snapping, and avoidance. While addressing behavioral issues is essential, natural supplements like ashwagandha can play a supportive role in managing aggression in dogs....
