Integrative treatments for canine hypothyroidism
Canine hypothyroidism benefits from an integrative treatment approach using diet, supplements, and herbs alongside conventional medication. Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in dogs. Your veterinarian must make an accurate diagnosis to develop an effective treatment plan. This article highlights integrative treatments for canine hypothyroidism. They cover therapies from nutrition to herbs and supplements. Supplements for dogs with hypothyroidism Iodine is essential to thyroid hormone production. It also...
Cat Communication: How Your Cat Is Talking to You and Others
Cats have a reputation for being mysterious and hard to read. But the truth is, cats are actually very communicative creatures — they just speak a language that takes a little practice to understand. Once you learn the basics, you’ll be amazed at how much your feline companion is telling you every single day. Talking to the Humans They Love Here’s something fascinating: cats don’t really meow at other cats. That’s right — meowing is a language cats developed specifically to communicate with...
Why Your Dog’s Wound Won’t Heal
As a loving dog parent, few things are more worrying than noticing a wound on your dog that just doesn’t seem to get better. While some cuts and scrapes heal quickly on their own, others can linger for weeks — or even get worse. Understanding why this happens and what to do about it can make a big difference in your dog’s health and comfort. Why Won’t the Wound Heal? There are several reasons why a wound might not heal the way it should. Here are some of the most common: Infection: When bacteria get into a wound,...
Is Your Cat Getting the Right Vitamins and Minerals?
As a cat parent, you want the best for your furry companion. You make sure they have fresh water, tasty food, and plenty of love. But have you ever stopped to wonder if your cat is getting all the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy and happy? Let’s break it down in a simple way. Why Vitamins and Minerals Matter Just like humans, cats need vitamins and minerals to keep their bodies working properly. These nutrients help with everything from strong bones and healthy skin to a working immune system and good eyesight. Without...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Resource guarding, turning finders into fosters and more!
Happy Tuesday. Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Transforming finders into fostersWhat 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… Learn More...
Eye injuries in cats: causes, symptoms and treatment
Eye injuries in your kitty can cause pain, tearing, or discharge. This guide covers common causes, warning signs, and steps to safely treat or seek veterinary care for your cat’s eyes. As a cat guardian, you might not be aware when your kitty suffers a minor eye injury. You only realize something’s wrong when you see him pawing at his eye. You may also notice a change in the way the eye appears. Let’s look at different types of eye injuries in cats, and what to do if they occur. What can cause an injury to your...
Holistic Approach to Mobility in Senior Dogs
As your dog grows older, you may notice them slowing down, struggling to climb stairs, or taking longer to get up after resting. These changes in mobility in senior dogs are normal parts of aging, but they don’t have to define your dog’s quality of life. With a thoughtful, whole-body approach, you can help your senior dog stay active, comfortable, and happy for years to come. Know the Signs Early Mobility problems often start small. Watch for subtle clues like stiffness after rest, hesitation before jumping, or a slight limp after...
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,...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Lessons from award-winning foster programs, grant winners and more!
Happy Monday. Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. The April Weekly Community Conversations grant giveaway winners are…Earlier this week, Maddie’s Fund® gave four organizations at random a $2,500 grant for attending the April Weekly Community Conversations for a total of $10,000 in grants. Join us in congratulating the four people who won a grant for their organization: Debra DeVries, K9 Battle Buddies (Hinesville, GA) Carol Fleming, Upper Valley Humane Society (Enfield,… Learn More Foster...
Posture Problems in Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can experience posture problems that may need correction! While we often think about posture as a human concern, our canine companions can also develop issues with how they hold and position their bodies. Understanding what causes these problems and how to address them can help keep your dog comfortable and healthy. Common Causes of Posture Problems Spinal Disc Issues One of the most frequent causes of posture problems in dogs is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This condition occurs when the cushioning discs...
Understanding Runny Nose in Cats: What Every Cat Guardian Should Know
If you’ve noticed your feline companion sniffling or dealing with nasal discharge, you’re not alone. A runny nose is one of the most common reasons cat guardians seek veterinary care. Let’s explore what causes this condition, how to prevent it, and the treatment options available. Common Causes A runny nose in cats can result from several different conditions. Viral and bacterial infections are among the most frequent culprits, often causing what veterinarians call upper respiratory infections. Other causes include fungal...
