Hays County Contract Update
Mar 25, 2025 Partnership between Hays County and Austin Pets Alive! for Pet Resource Center to Conclude Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) has announced the conclusion of its partnership with Hays County in managing the Hays County Pet Resource, Education, and Research Center (Hays PRC). The conclusion comes after the Commissioner’s Court voted to terminate the contract to re-evaluate how to proceed with animal services in Hays County. Since its inception in April 2023, this collaboration has been instrumental in providing essential resources to...
Volunteer Puppy-Raisers Wanted! Care For Future Leader Dogs for the Blind
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Are you looking for a way to give back to the community? Perhaps you’re a devoted dog lover who isn’t able to make a long-term commitment. If you think you have the love, time, and patience it takes to raise, socialize, and train a puppy, then you might be exactly what these gorgeous pups need. Leader Dogs for the Blind is a nonprofit organization that provides people who are blind or visually impaired...
Hydration is The Lifeline for Your Dog’s Health
For those who share their lives with a four-legged companion, ensuring proper hydration is paramount. Dehydration in dogs can lead to serious health complications. As the temperature rises and outdoor activities increase, the risk grows. It’s essential to equip yourself with valuable knowledge to keep your furry friend happy and hydrated. Understanding Dehydration in Dogs Dehydration occurs when a dog loses more fluids than intake. Symptoms such as dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes, and excessive panting may signal dehydration....
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,...
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…...
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:...
Kodah’s Enormous Furry Lump: Should Dr. Karyn Be Worried?
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred. If you’ve never had to worry about a lump on your dog, then I don’t think you’ve ever had a dog. From tiny to large, cancerous to benign, all dogs will invariably end up with one lump or many over the course of their life. The tricky part is knowing which ones to...
Bonding Critters with Dogs and Cats
Bringing a new critter into a home with dogs or cats can be a daunting task. The natural instincts of these animals often lead to a predator-prey dynamic, but with the right approach, harmony can be achieved. Understanding which critters can coexist peacefully with your canine or feline companions is essential for a happy household. The Right Combination Matters When considering a new critter, the combination of personalities plays a crucial role. Certain dog breeds, especially those bred for hunting, such as terriers and hounds, may not be...
APA!’s Shelter Pet Hospital Wish List
Mar 20, 2025 Since April of 2024, we’ve seen the reality of new facilities begin to take shape, with the ground breaking of our future APA! Shelter Pet Hospital. Now we are nearing the end of the construction of our hospital, built to serve the pets in APA!’s care, whether located at the shelter or in a loving foster home. With the walls up, the utilities on and the dedicated spaces meticulously planned, we need help furnishing the building with items like a stainless steel table, lockers, and shelving. We are looking to our...
Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (Mar 20, 2025)
Click to Skip Ahead This Week’s Winner Name: Molli Breed: Shichon Fun Fact: “Molli is an assistance dog She takes her job seriously and her she ishelping with admin” Cutest Name: Ellie Breed: Maltese/ShiTzu Fun Fact: Ellie loves to dress-up and this is her newest jumper. Most Expressive Name: Samantha Breed: Chihuahua Terriet Mix Fun Fact: “Samantha loves people and all animals she encounters on our walks in ourfarm community.” Best Action Shot Name: Marley Breed: Border Terrier Mix Fun Fact: “Marley had a...
Cloudy Eyes in Cats
As a devoted companion to your feline friend, noticing changes in their vision can be alarming. Cloudy eyes, also known as corneal opacity, often signal underlying health issues that deserve attention. Here’s an insightful examination of the causes of cloudy eyes in cats and natural remedies to help restore clarity. What Causes Cloudy Eyes? Cloudiness in a cat’s eyes can stem from various factors, including age-related changes, injuries, and diseases. Feline cataracts, a condition where the lens becomes opaque, typically occurs in...
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 to Mary Garcia from Spring Branch Rescue in Richmond, TX for winning the $3,000 monthly grant. But wait, there’s more! In celebration of Maddie’s...
Natural Approach to Hookworms in Dogs
Hookworms represent a significant health concern for dogs, often lurking undetected until symptoms arise. These parasitic worms can cause anemia, lethargy, and gastrointestinal issues, impacting a dog’s overall vitality. Awareness of this hidden threat is crucial for every dog guardian committed to their companion’s health. Stay Alert Signs of hookworm infestation include pale gums, weight loss, and diarrhea. These symptoms often escalate, leading to severe health issues if left untreated. Observing any unusual behavior in a dog,...
Does Dog Shampoo Expire? Vet-Verified Types, Storage Tips & FAQ
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead Bathing your dog can keep their fur clean and prevent foul odors, which is why it is crucial to choose the right shampoo. Our pups rely on us to provide proper care, so you need to ensure that the shampoo you select suits your dog’s needs. You probably already have dog shampoo at home if you are a dog parent. But now the question is: “Does dog shampoo expire?” Dog shampoo lasts a...
10 Best Deep-Cleansing Dog Shampoos in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks
Bathing your pet is probably not your favorite task as a dog owner, and your pet probably fights you every step of the way. This can be especially frustrating when you have one that loves to get dirty, which makes getting a deep-cleansing dog shampoo essential so that you can, hopefully, space out bath times by ensuring the coat stays clean for as long as possible. Our guide covers everything you need to know to pick the right shampoo for your pet. You needn’t bathe your pup often. Every 1 to 3 months is sufficient, depending on the dog...
