AI in dog care
How artificial intelligence is reshaping dog care through smart training tools, health apps, translator tech, and more. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how we care for our dogs — enhancing training, health monitoring, communication, and more. From smart apps to AI-powered behavior tools, technology for canine health and well-being helps us better understand and meet our canine companions’ needs. Let’s examine AI in dog care, and how it’s changing the way we understand and look after our dogs. ...
Helping Dogs and Cats Adjust to Vision Loss
Vision loss presents unique challenges for dogs and cats. Understanding the signs and managing the transition can greatly enhance their quality of life. This guide offers practical strategies to support furry friends experiencing vision changes. Recognizing Signs of Vision Loss Many animals adapt remarkably well to gradual vision loss. Subtle signs are often overlooked. Look for behaviors like hesitation during walks, difficulty catching treats, or confusion in familiar spaces. Sudden changes often manifest as disorientation or fear. If a...
Create your own professional developmental portals on Maddie’s University
Does your organization need training for new staff members and volunteers? Would you like to be able to offer further education to existing staff and volunteers? Maddie’s® University offers free space for organizations to create their own customized professional development portals. You can choose any Maddie’s® University courses and webcasts to be placed in the portal and learners enter the portal through a dedicated URL. Managers of the portal can see who enrolls and completes training. Managers can also add...
How to leash train a cat
Teach your cat to enjoy the outdoors safely with valuable tips on leash training, harness selection, and stress-free outdoor fun. Leash training your cat gives him access to the outdoors while keeping him safe. But improper training and poorly fitting gear can make for a negative experience. This article explains how to leash train a cat. It also shows you how to choose the right harness and leash and make the training process stress-free. “Going outside is great enrichment for cats,” says animal behaviorist Nina Leipold....
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....
How to protect dogs and cats from microplastics
Protect your dog or cat from harmful microplastics with these 12 practical tips. Reduce plastic exposure, choose safer products, and support natural detoxification. Plastic is a major environmental concern. It never fully decomposes but instead breaks down into microplastics. These tiny particles now contaminate our soil, water, and food – and end up in our animals’ bodies (and ours). Here’s how to protect dogs and cats from microplastics. These tips also help reduce plastic waste in the environment. 12 ways to help...
Adopting and Assimilating a Rescue Cat
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being. Source: Animal Wellness...
Tailoring protection with vaccination protocols for every patient
Still 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 “Vaccination Protocols: Tailoring Protection for Every Patient” webcast. This special presentation explores the essential role of vaccination to protect vulnerable...
Signs Your Dog is Going to Live Long, Healthy, and Sharp: 3 Simple Tests
Have you ever wondered if there are any tools or tests that can help you assess how long and how well your dog is going to live? Research has revealed simple home assessments that predict longevity and gauge canine health allowing you to take timely corrective actions to extend your dog’s precious years. Weight: The Single Most Important Longevity Factor Research following over 57,000 dogs for 20 years delivers a startling truth: lean dogs consistently outlive overweight dogs across every single breed. The difference ranges from five...
Grey Muzzle Award Announcement 2025 – Puffy
Sep 03, 2025 Puffy first entered our care in 2015. He was just a tiny squish back then and it didn’t take long for this sweet, teeny boy to get scooped up. He remained with that adopter for the next five years, but overtime, the adopter began noting a wobbly walk and consistent head tilt. As time went on, he also developed some behaviors that were tough for the family; ultimately, the adopter made the choice to surrender him back into our care. While we don’t have a confirmed diagnosis, our medical team noted that his presenting...
Herbs for balancing your dog’s health
Here’s how herbs can help balance your dog’s health by supporting her body as an ecosystem. Discover holistic herbal remedies for digestion, immunity, stress, and overall well-being. Dogs are more than their individual parts. They are ecosystems, with each body part playing a crucial role in the harmony of the whole. This perspective emphasizes balance and connection between physical, emotional, and energetic well-being. Let’s explore the canine body as an ecosystem, and how herbs for balancing your dog’s...
