Canine ears can be floppy, folded, erect and everything in between. We know that our dogs depend on their keen sense of hearing to track their surroundings. They depend on us to make sure their ears stay healthy. That’s why it is important to conduct a sniff test inside your dog’s ears – and really…
Keeping French Bulldogs and Labrador Retrievers Healthy and Safe
For the fourth consecutive year, the French Bulldog and Labrador Retriever claim the top two spots as the most popular dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club. The pair could not be more different in looks or personality. Frenchies sport pushed in faces and can be a bit clingy and comedic. Labs are noted…
Calculating Chocolate Dangers in Dogs
People regard chocolate as a sweet treat. But it can be dangerous and even deadly if eaten by dogs. Identifying Risk Factors The size of the dog plus the type of chocolate play factors in health risks. Theobromine is a chemical found in cocoa beans that acts as a stimulant when consumed. In people, theobromine…
Never Induce Vomiting in Cats Using Hydrogen Peroxide
What may be safe for dogs can be downright dangerous to cats. Case in point: hydrogen peroxide.Yes, hydrogen peroxide can be safely given to a dog suspected of ingesting a toxin to induce vomiting under certain circumstances. Play it safe by contacting a veterinarian by phone or online who can guide you on the correct…
Yikes! My Dog Is Scooting His Butt! What Can I Do?
Our dogs display lots of behaviors – some we applaud and some we abhor. Fitting in that latter category is a dog scooting his rear end on the living room rug and sometimes, in front of horrified houseguests. Don’t blame the dog for misbehaving or attention seeking. That scooting is triggered by a health or…
Does My Dog Need a Coat in the Cold Weather?
I live in Texas with a reputation for being scorching hot, but even the Lone Star State does experience freezing temperatures and yes, ice and snow. I also live with Kona, Emma and Nova. My dogs all sport shorthaired coats, and they definitely benefit from wearing cozy coats when temperatures dip below freezing during outdoor…
Main Differences Between Vomiting and Regurgitation in Cats
By Arden Moore Some cats vomit. Some cats regurgitate. Some do both. Both result in smelly messes. Yuck to both! Cats can be masters at hiding pain or ailments, so it is important to pay attention to these food-related actions. It is also important to know when to have your cat examined by your veterinarian….
The Hazards of Happy Tails in Dogs
A dog’s tail is more than just a wagging accessory — it plays an important role in communication, balance, and even warmth. Dogs use their tails to signal their emotions, steer in the water, and some even curl their tails around their noses to stay warm on chilly nights. For many pet parents, nothing is…
Is Your Pet Choking or Just Coughing? How to Tell the Difference
By Arden Moore When it comes to keeping pets safe, you need more than just your eyes and hands—you also need your ears. Each year, more than 200,000 dogs and cats die from choking (American Veterinary Medical Association). Tragically, many of these emergencies are preventable. As a master-certified pet first aid and CPR instructor, and…
How to Cool Down an Overheated Dog: Surprising Science Behind a Simple Head Dunk
By Arden Moore Summer is here in full force—and so is the heat. While many of us love soaking up the sun with our dogs, it’s important to know that hot weather can pose serious risks for our canine companions. Heat stroke in dogs can happen in minutes, and without proper prevention, it can be…
Poison Hemlock Warning: Protect Your Dog on Walks and Trails
Most dogs love leashed walks, especially when they get the chance to sniff out new trails and explore new environments. My own dogs, Kona and Emma, are no exception. But before you head out to a new park or nature area, it’s critical to check whether the environment is safe—especially when it comes to toxic…
Effective Game Plan to Reunite Lost Pets with Their Families
Lost Pets In my neighborhood, every day it seems that a person reports that their dog or cat is missing. I spot the new “lost dog” poster on my leashed walks with my dogs, Kona and Emma. I view pleas from pet parents posted on Next Door and other apps. Even the most conscientious pet…