New fact sheet on the importance of pet-inclusive housing
We know that across the country, many people face tough choices due to housing restrictions, often having to give up their pets. In an effort to both show the importance of and help advocate for more pet-inclusive housing, a new fact sheet was just created for the Opportunity Starts at Home Campaign. The sheet shares that only about 9% of all rental housing allows pets without breed, weight, and size. “This research does not specify low-income/subsidized and does not include the use of nonrefundable fees, so likely fewer units meet...
Cat Obesity: Simple Solutions for a Healthier Feline
When feline care is under focus, one topic stands out: obesity. A plump, lounging cat looks cute, but the truth is far more serious. Obesity poses significant health risks to our beloved companions, leading to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. The good news? With a few adjustments, you can guide your feline friend toward a healthier lifestyle. Understanding Obesity in Cats Recognizing obesity is the first step. A cat is considered obese when it’s 20% above its ideal weight. Factors contributing to this condition include genetics,...
Pet industry growth statistics: how inflation and spending trends shape the figures
If you think more people than ever share their lives with a dog or cat (or both!), you’re not wrong. In the US alone, over 65% of households include a companion animal. So, it’s no surprise the pet industry is booming. Here’s a look at some pet industry growth statistics that show where our money goes when it come to our beloved four-legged friends. According to Michigan State University, the pet industry made an overall economic contribution in 2023 of $303 billion, an increase of 16% from 2022. A Forbes Advisor analysis...
Dogs and Barking: Getting Lava, Hela & Lajka to Stop
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two crossbreed dogs, Lava and Hela. Ever since I remember, we’ve always had at least one dog who liked to bark. Lava is generally a barker, but only when there is some excitement going on or someone’s come to visit. She will also bark at other dogs, particularly if she can’t get close to them, as a sign of frustration and...
APA! Encourages People To Adopt During PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week
Mar 24, 2025 AUSTIN, TX – MARCH 24, 2025 – Pets are family, and can bring hope, companionship and unconditional love to their people. Adopting a pet in need of a home can bring joy to people and also impact communities, alleviating strain on overcrowded shelters. That’s why Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) will bring adoptable pets to the Southpark Meadows Petsmart, 9300 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78748, on March 29 and March 30 from 12 pm to 3 pm for PetSmart Charities® National Adoption Week, taking place March 24 –...
How to Find Sensory Toys for Blind and Deaf Dogs (And Why You Should)
Sensory toys are a great way to engage blind or deaf dogs in play, which can keep them more relaxed and confident. Sensory loss can happen in any dog, but blind and deaf dogs still have other highly developed senses, and it’s both possible and important to teach them how to play. In fact, play and toys can help blind and deaf dogs adjust to their new reality, get used to their environments, be more relaxed, and have an overall better quality of life. Let’s look more closely at the benefits of play and some of the best sensory toys...
Ask Dr. Paola: Monday March 24, 2025
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Camp Maddie Kitten Edition recordings, reduce hyperarousal in shelter dogs and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. The February Weekly Community Conversations grant giveaway winner is…Earlier this month, Maddie’s Fund® gave one organization at random a $5,000 grant for attending the February Weekly Community Conversations! Join us in congratulating Jo Lunsford from Kay Turpin Animal Rescue Fund in Lebanon, KY! In addition to the Community Conversation grant, one grant was given away for monthly participation on Maddie’s® Pet Forum. Bravo…...
Ozone therapy for dogs and cats
Discover how ozone therapy for dogs and cats fights infections, reduces inflammation, and supports overall health. As dog and cat parents, we always look for ways to keep our furry friends happy and healthy. However, when traditional treatments fall short, you may explore alternative therapies. One option veterinarians are embracing is medical ozone therapy for dogs and cats. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your canine or feline companion? What is medical ozone therapy? Medical ozone therapy utilizes medical ozone gas, a...
Lost Pets, Found Faster
[embedded content] Every year, countless pets go missing, but how effective are our current reunification efforts? This webinar explores solutions to improve lost pet reunification rates and keep lost pets out of kennels. Join us March 13th at 1pm/CST as Ashley Shrewsbury, Pet Reunification Specialist at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control as well as Gina Botticello, Community Partnerships and Programs Manager at PASCO County Animal Services, discuss insights into making reunification faster, easier, and more effective Source:...















