"Although we had a family friend cat-sitting, we came home from vacation to find my husband's favorite chair had become our two cats' favorite scratching spot. The upholstery fabric on both arms of the chair was in shreds." Cat owner, Martinsville, VA A situation like this is why so many cat owners think about declawing. [...]
The long days of summer are great fun, but they unfortunately provide more opportunities for injuries and illnesses. Most of us already have a human first aid kit in our homes for just such times. It’s also a great idea to keep some additional supplies on hand for emergencies and illnesses for our dogs and [...]
Many pet owners have a creative flair for imagining what their dog or cat might say in a given situation: Fez the Siamese at mealtime: "Hmmmph. No smoked salmon today?" Lacy the Cocker Spaniel when the owner's ready for a walk: "Oh BOY, OH BOY, OH BOY…..I can't WAIT!!!" Any critter on the vet's table [...]
It’s happening. Your pet is getting old. The dog that has loyally stood by your side for years is beginning to grey in her muzzle and is moving a bit slower when she stands up from a lying position. Or your formerly fearless cat seems to be downright jumpy around strangers lately. What’s normal? How [...]
Parvovirus is a serious disease that usually attacks the intestines of dogs. Puppies, adolescent dogs, and unvaccinated dogs are the most vulnerable to this simple deadly virus. Parvo survives virtually everywhere – for up to six months. Parvo is actually impossible in the natural environment where organic material inactivates disinfectants. Even on impervious surfaces like [...]
Did you know that most cats and dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the time they are three years old? When was the last time you checked your pet’s mouth, and do you know what warning signs to watch for? Here are symptoms that may indicate your pet needs a dental evaluation: 1. Bad [...]
Fleas are nasty little creatures. They are parasites, whose mouthparts are made for piercing skin and sucking blood. They are mobile in any direction: they can jump up to 7 inches vertically and 13 inches horizontally. That’s comparable to a human jumping 250 feet vertically and 450 feet horizontally. After emerging from the cocoon and being initially fed, an adult flea can survive from 2 months to 1 year between feedings. For a period of 2 weeks up to 8 months, a female flea can lay 15 to 20 eggs per day. That’s potentially 280 to 4,800 fleas in a relatively short time.
Before we start training our cats to do something or to stop doing something, we need to look at how cats learn. They don't understand English, they can't read books or attend lectures. They learn by experience. If the experience is good, they will try to repeat it. If the experience is unpleasant, they will [...]
What and how much to feed your pet? This is a question every pet owner must face from the moment they come into your home. There are so many variables when it comes to feeding your pet, the most reliable source will always be your own pet's veterinarian. By working together, we'll be able to [...]
