5 Simple Things to Keep in Mind to Prevent Obesity in Dogs
If you’re a dog parent, you know how hard it can be to resist those pleading eyes at dinnertime. However, maintaining a healthy weight for your furry companion is one of the most important things you can do for their overall health and happiness. Obesity in dogs is more than just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to serious health problems like joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes. The good news? Preventing obesity doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are five simple things to keep in mind: 1. Limit Treats to 10% of Daily...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Instructor-Led Courses, big feelings in dogs and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Apply for Maddie’s Fund Instructor-Led Courses on February 6!Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Be sure to save the date for Maddie’s Fund® Instructor-Led Courses! All courses are free, #ThanksToMaddie. We are excited to share that we have four brand new classes this term! We’re offering… Learn More Recognizing and de-escalating big...
Cancer Can Be Prevented, Cancer Can Be Cured
Cancer remains one of the most serious health concerns for dogs, particularly as they grow older. While this diagnosis can feel overwhelming, dog parents should know that advances in veterinary medicine have opened new doors for both preventing and fighting this disease. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about your canine companion’s health. Why Cancer is Common in Dogs Just like in humans, cancer occurs when cells in the body grow abnormally and out of control. As dogs age, their bodies become more...
Why Your Dog’s Dental Health Matters
When you look at your dog’s smile, you might not realize that what’s happening in their mouth affects their entire body. Dental disease isn’t just about bad breath or dirty teeth—it’s a serious health concern that can impact your dog’s heart, kidneys, and overall well-being. The Problem Here’s a surprising fact: if your dog is over three years old, there’s an 80-90% chance they already have some form of dental disease. The tricky part is that you might not even notice it. The real troublemaker...
Apply for Maddie’s Fund Instructor-Led Courses on February 6!
Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Be sure to save the date for Maddie’s Fund® Instructor-Led Courses! All courses are free, #ThanksToMaddie. We are excited to share that we have four brand new classes this term! We’re offering 10 different courses and 13 total classes in the Spring 2026 session. The spring 2026 application window opens on February 6, 2026 and closes on February 16, 2026. Below are the 10 courses offered:...
8 signs your dog needs a chiropractor
Is your dog acting “off?” Discover eight subtle signs they may be out of alignment — and how canine chiropractic care can help restore their health and happiness. As dog lovers, we pride ourselves on knowing our best friends inside and out. But when it comes to identifying physical discomfort, we’re often one step behind. Subtle, slow-building issues are the hardest to notice. Dogs don’t always limp when they’re hurting. They don’t always yelp when something’s out of place. In fact, dogs are...
Joint Problems and Arthritis in Dogs
If you care for dogs, understanding joint health is crucial for keeping them comfortable and active throughout their lives. Some breeds face higher risks for joint problems like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and ligament injuries. Let’s explore which dogs are most vulnerable and what you can do to help. Breeds Most at Risk Hip dysplasia commonly affects medium and large breeds. German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Bulldogs top the list of susceptible breeds. This inherited condition causes the hip joint to form...
New resource center highlights pets and mental health benefits
This online hub shines a spotlight on how dogs, cats, and other companion animals support and strengthen our mental and emotional well-being. Anyone who shares their life with a dog or cat understands something about pets and mental health benefits. They know how animals positively affect our well-being in a multitude of ways. Dogs and cats give us unconditional love. They help us through the ups and downs of life with their steadfast loyalty and affection. The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Mental Health America (MHA)...
What Is Pillow Foot in Cats?
If you’ve noticed your cat’s paw pads looking swollen and soft like little pillows, they might have a condition called plasma cell pododermatitis, commonly known as pillow foot. This rare foot condition can be concerning for those caring for cats, but understanding it is the first step toward helping your feline companion. What Is Pillow Foot? Pillow foot is an uncommon condition where a cat’s paw pads become soft, swollen, and squishy. The medical term is feline plasma cell pododermatitis. The condition happens when special...
Recognizing and de-escalating big feelings in dogs
We’re excited to announce that the highly anticipated follow up to the course Fundamentals of Canine Communication and Safe Dog Handling is here! The new and second course in this series is called Recognizing and De-escalating Big Feelings in Dogs. Please complete the first course before taking this one. As in the first course, this course offers a series of short video examples to demonstrate behaviors and techniques in a real-world setting. This course will explore some of the reasons why we might see some of the more...
Unapologetically Me
Jan 26, 2026 There’s nurture. There’s nature. And then there’s something that lives right in the center of the Venn diagram between the two: the parts of a being that are so deeply woven in, that without them, they simply wouldn’t be who they are. Those are the traits that make us all Unapologetically Me. Over the years, society has grown more comfortable not just accepting, but embracing our full selves—and encouraging others to do the same. Phrases like “you do you” and “don’t yuck my...
Common Heart Conditions in Dogs
Heart disease affects many dogs, especially as they age. Understanding common heart conditions and how to support your dog’s cardiovascular health naturally can make a real difference in their quality of life. Common Heart Conditions The most frequent heart problem in dogs is myxomatous mitral valve disease, where the heart’s valve gradually degenerates, causing blood to leak backward. This condition is particularly common in smaller breeds and older dogs. Another condition, dilated cardiomyopathy, occurs when the heart...
Discover the Mysteries of the Root Chakra and How It Influences Pet Behavior!
Join renowned animal communicator Joan Ranquet on a journey to uncover the secrets of the root chakra and its impact on pet behavior. Training, positive reinforcement, and increased activity and stimulation can help you manage unwanted or unhealthy behaviors in dogs and cats. And while these are crucial components, there’s often an important piece missing: chakra care. Animals have chakras just like humans, and when they’re unbalanced or blocked, it can lead to mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, sexual, behavioral, and...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Working cats, My Dog is My Home conference and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Using research for decisions on working cat placementsNot all cats want a couch! Recent research published in the Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health highlights an important truth: not every cat is suited for life in a traditional home. Join us for the next Maddie’s® Insights on February 12 (12PM PT/3PM ET) as we dive into this research… Learn More Spring Instructor-Led Courses are coming soon!Looking to implement a new program,...
A Holistic Strategy to Combat Parasites in Dogs
As a dog parent, protecting your furry companion from parasites is one of the most important responsibilities you have. Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites can cause serious health problems if left untreated. The good news is that with a holistic approach combining prevention, treatment, and environmental management, you can keep your dog healthy and parasite-free. Understanding the Threat Parasites are more than just a nuisance—they can transmit dangerous diseases to your dog and even to your family. Fleas can cause...
Cardiomyopathy in Cats: What Cat Parents Should Know
Cardiomyopathy is a serious heart disease that affects many cats. As a cat parent, understanding this condition can help you recognize warning signs and take steps to protect your feline companion’s health. What is Cardiomyopathy? Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that affects how well the heart pumps blood. In cats, there are different types, but the most common form is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, where the heart walls become abnormally thick. Another type is dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart chambers stretch out...
Using Research for Decisions on Working Cat Placements
Not all cats want a couch! Recent research published in the Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health highlights an important truth: not every cat is suited for life in a traditional home. Join us for the next Maddie’s® Insights on February 12 (12pm PT / 3pm ET) as we dive into this research that can help you make decisions about cats who aren’t suitable for adoption. Our speaker is Jacklyn Ellis, MRes, PhD, CAAB, CSB-C, Director of Behaviour at the Toronto Humane Society. Using the Feline Spectrum Assessment...
Winter Storm Warning: How You Can Help Austin Pets (and Keep Your Own Safe)
Jan 21, 2026 As temperatures drop later this week, Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) is asking the community to step up for pets who need warmth and safety during this Winter Storm Warning. Right now, 75 dogs urgently need short-term foster homes to get them out of the cold. While our team has worked hard to weather-proof our shelter, nothing compares to a warm home during extreme weather. We are also asking for adopters for Barn Cats (cats who just need a place to shelter and can live outside). Urgent Need: Foster a Dog This Week We’re asking...
Portion Control Unlocks Better Health for Your Four-Legged Friend
If you’re a dog parent, you’ve probably heard plenty of advice about keeping your canine companion healthy. But here’s the truth: one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent obesity in dogs boils down to one key practice—proper portion control. Why Portion Control Matters Obesity is incredibly common in dogs and can significantly impact your furry friend’s quality of life. The extra weight puts stress on their joints, bones, and muscles, often leading to painful arthritis. Beyond joint problems,...
Lower Urinary Tract Disease in Cats Is More Common Than You Think
If you share your home with a cat, you need to know about lower urinary tract disease. This condition affects cats far more often than many people realize, and recognizing the signs early can make a significant difference in your feline companion’s health and comfort. What Is Lower Urinary Tract Disease? Lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) refers to a group of conditions that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). One of the most common forms is idiopathic cystitis, which...
