Dogster’s Weekly Photo Contest Winners: Out On a Walk (August 17, 2026)
Welcome to our Dogster Weekly Photo Contest, where every other Monday we pick the best three photos from our readers, based on that week’s topic. This week’s topic was “Out On a Walk”, and we received some amazing photos from you. And although every dog is wonderful, we had to pick our winners. Congratulations, and thanks to everyone who submitted their dogs to our photo contest! Next topic is: “Couch Potato”. Do you want to have a chance to get your pup featured on Dogster, our Facebook, and...
Could Your Dog Be Warning You? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever noticed your dog acting strange right before something bad happened, you’re not alone. In fact, a survey by the Associated Press found that 47 percent of dog owners reported that their dog had warned them about something dangerous or bad before it happened. That’s nearly half of all dog owners! So what’s going on, and should you pay attention when your dog starts acting odd? What Does a Warning Look Like? Dogs can’t talk, but they sure can communicate. When a dog senses that something...
Sound therapy for dogs and cats: how healing frequencies support health
Discover how sound therapy uses healing frequencies to reduce stress, support healing, and improve overall well-being in dogs and cats. Humans have used sound for healing since the beginning of time. From toning, humming, chanting, and singing to modern sonic, ultrasonic, and subsonic technologies, we have long recognized its therapeutic potential. Today, sound therapy for dogs and cats is used as a healing approach that uses vibration and frequency to support physical, emotional, and energetic well-being. How can sound heal? Sound healing...
Heart disease in cats: symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment
Spot heart disease in cats by recognizing breathing problems, lethargy, heart murmurs, and other warning signs. Read about causes, testing, and treatment options. Heart disease in cats is more common than many realize, especially as our kitties age. Some cats show obvious symptoms such as breathing difficulties or lethargy. But others may show no signs at all until the condition becomes serious. From cardiomyopathy to taurine deficiency, several factors can affect feline heart health. Knowing what to watch for, and getting an early...
How Cortisol Affects Your Dog’s Wellbeing
You’ve probably heard the word “cortisol” before. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter for your dog’s health? Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know. What Is Cortisol? Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands, which are two small glands that sit near the kidneys. It is often called the “stress hormone” because the body releases it during stressful situations. However, cortisol does much more than just respond to stress. It also helps control blood sugar, manage...
Managing Pet Anxiety with Chakra Healing
The world’s leading animal communicator, Joan Ranquet, is helping dog and cat parents learn about managing pet anxiety with chakra healing! Anxiety in dogs and cats can appear as fear, reactivity, excessive vocalization, hiding, or difficulty relaxing. Not only can anxiety impact your companion animal’s quality of life, but chronic stress can also impact their behavior, immune system, sleep habits, life expectancy, digestion, and so much more. While many factors can contribute to stress, a holistic approach considers the...
Meet Milo, the “Butterfly King” Who’s Inspiring People to Slow Down and Appreciate Nature
Some dogs have a special connection with nature. For Jen Bennett’s 8-year-old Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Milo, that couldn’t be more true. “He loves nothing more than spending time in our garden with his butterfly friends.” His hundreds of thousands of followers have even given him the nickname, “The Butterfly King.” Milo has become an unlikely ambassador for butterflies, inspiring people around the world to slow down, appreciate the outdoors, and create spaces where wildlife can thrive....
Keeping Your Dog and Cat Safe from Lawn Care Chemicals
In 1962, marine biologist and nature writer Rachel Carson published her groundbreaking book, Silent Spring, which changed the way the world thought about pesticides and chemical use in our environment. Carson’s careful research revealed how widely used chemicals — particularly pesticides — were quietly making their way through ecosystems, harming wildlife, and entering the food chain in ways most people never imagined. Her work sparked a global conversation about environmental responsibility that continues to...
The June & July Weekly Community Conversations grant recipients are…
Yesterday, Maddie’s Fund® awarded three organizations, at random, a grant for attending the June and July Weekly Community Conversations for a total of $20,000 in grants. Please join us in congratulating those who received a grant for their organization: Sara Ferguson, Happy Cats Haven in Manitou Springs, CO (June for $5,000) Natalie Reynolds, Baldwin County Humane Society in Fairhope, AL (June for $5,000) Shannon Buck, K-9 Lifesavers in Stafford, VA (July for $10,000) In addition to the Community Conversation grants, two $3,000...
How to protect dog paws from hot pavement
This summer, guard your dog’s paws against hot asphalt and pavement. Use simple safety tips, prevention methods, and treatment advice for burns and injuries. When sidewalks and asphalt heat up in the sun, summer walks can harm your dog’s feet. Protecting their paws from hot pavement is essential for preventing burns and blisters. A few simple precautions and quick treatment steps can keep your dog safe, comfortable, and active during the hottest months of the year. Prevention tactics to keep your dog’s paws safe Time...
