Tornado safety for dogs: sheltering in place
When tornadoes threaten, knowing how to protect your dog matters. Find simple ways to prepare, train, and shelter safely together. Intense rain, hail, or high winds can be “just a storm.” But they can also signal something more dangerous. If the sky turns a dark, greenish color and normal sounds become muffled, a tornado may be forming. It’s time for you and your dog to take shelter. Read on for tips on tornado safety for dogs and why sheltering in place is better than evacuating. Are tornadoes becoming more frequent?...
Natural Care for Dog Dandruff
If you’ve noticed white flakes on your dog’s coat or furniture, you’re likely dealing with canine dandruff. While this condition is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable for your furry companion and may signal underlying health issues that need attention. Understanding Dandruff in Dogs Dandruff appears as small, white or gray flakes of dead skin that shed from your dog’s coat. This happens when the skin becomes too dry or when skin cells regenerate faster than normal. Your dog might scratch more than usual, and...
Nystagmus in Cats: Causes and Treatments
If you’ve noticed your cat’s eyes making rapid, involuntary movements, they may be experiencing nystagmus. This condition can be concerning for those caring for cats, but understanding the types, causes, and treatment options can help you support your feline companion’s health. What is Nystagmus? Nystagmus refers to rhythmic, uncontrolled eye movements that can occur from side to side, up and down, or in a circular pattern. These movements happen without your cat’s control and can affect one or both eyes. Types of...
Transforming finders into fosters
What is your shelter’s biggest resource? If you didn’t say “our community,” then let’s talk. On our next Maddie’s® Monthly Foster Connection presentation on June 4, Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter’s Animal Services Director, Misty Valenta, will explore how your community can transform the way you look at your intake counter. Building a community-based team through fostering benefits the everyone involved – especially the pets! You’ll learn how the Williamson County Regional...
Nutritional Strategies to Achieve Longevity in Cats
Every cat guardian wants their feline companion to live a long, healthy life. While genetics play a role, nutrition is one of the most powerful tools we have to support our cats’ wellbeing and potentially extend their years with us. Let’s explore some key nutritional strategies that can help your cat thrive. Understanding Your Cat’s Unique Needs Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to get nutrition primarily from meat. Unlike dogs or humans, cats have specific requirements for nutrients like...
Cat coat types and grooming care
A complete guide to cat coat types, with practical grooming tips to keep your kitty’s skin healthy and his fur clean and unmatted. Your cat’s coat is more than just cosmetic. It plays an important role in his well-being. It helps with temperature regulation, skin protection, and overall health. From so-called hairless cats to long-haired breeds, feline coats come in a variety of textures and lengths. In this article, we look at different cat coat types and grooming care. Hairless cats Hairless breeds like Sphynx, Donskoy,...
Are Natural Protein Supplements the Secret to Your Dog or Cat’s Health?
If you share your home with a dog or cat, you’ve probably heard about natural supplements that can support their health. While plants and herbs like turmeric get a lot of attention, natural proteins are emerging as promising therapeutic options for our furry companions. What Are Natural Proteins? Natural proteins are substances derived from animal or marine sources and also from plant sources that contain beneficial compounds. Unlike synthetic medications, these proteins come from whole food sources and have been used for centuries in...
Resource guarding in shelter and rescue dogs
Resource guarding is a common behavior seen in dogs entering rescue and shelter environments, often arising from stress, uncertainty and past experiences around scarce or valuable resources. “Sharing Isn’t Easy: Resource Guarding in Rescue and Shelter Dogs” presentation explores the current research on resource guarding and how it applies to real-world rescue settings. Join us on Thursday, May 28 at 12PM PT/3PM ET for the latest in the Maddie’s® Monthly Behavior Connection series. Participants will learn how to...
Puppy intelligence development from 8 to 20 weeks
New research reveals how puppy intelligence develops and why different skills mature at different rates. Learn what you should know about raising a confident, well-adjusted dog. Puppies learn fast. They’re easier to housetrain than adult dogs and soon start responding to cues like “sit” or “down.” But did you know puppies develop multiple, distinct forms of intelligence during early brain growth? And that the best window for learning happens within a specific time frame? This article looks at the results of...
Building Your Knowledge Base to Help Your Canine or Cat Companion
As a dog or cat guardian, you want to provide the best care possible for your furry family member. Building a solid knowledge base about animal health and wellness is one of the most important steps you can take. Here’s how to construct your understanding to become a more informed and confident caregiver. The Basics Learn about your dog or cat’s specific breed characteristics, common health concerns, and normal behaviors. Different breeds have unique needs and tendencies. For example, large-breed dogs may be prone to joint issues,...
