by Stanley Coren
Universally known and appreciated for their playful, uninhibited nature, dogs’ penchant for play generally reflects these creatures’ more or less juvenile minds; they have been bred to remain much like their wolf puppy forebears for all of their lives. It’s part of what makes them unconditionally loving companions that like to frolic and [...]
by Debra A. Primovic
To pet lovers, the disparity between human and canine life spans seems unfair. Efforts to help dogs stay healthy not only keeps them around longer, but pays dividends in also keeping them in as youthful shape as possible.
Know When Your Pet is “Old”
According to Dr. Johnny Hoskins, in Geriatrics and Gerontology of [...]
by Linda Sechrist
It turns out that our quest for longevity may have a secret weapon. Numerous research studies by universities and veterinary schools have turned up evidence that supports what most pet owners have long known—having a pet as a companion brings healthy side effects.
A British Market Research Bureau study cites the reasons why pet [...]
by George Costa
Giving pets bed privileges is an age-old issue, with convincing arguments on both sides. The history of the pros and cons are evident in The International Encyclopedia of Dogs, which reports that in pre-Aztec Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintl, now known as the Mexican hairless breed, was a pet and a bed warmer. Today, an [...]
by Erica Pytlovany
The first trip to the veterinarian’s office does not need to be a traumatic experience. With savvy planning, you can make the whole experience less stressful for both you and your pet.
Handling: One of the most important steps to ease the way for a veterinary visit is getting an animal acclimated to handling. [...]
“A New Leash on Life” is a program that allows minimum and medium custody state prisons to partner with local animal shelters, animal welfare agencies, and/or private non-profit agencies to train dogs in preparation for their adoption. The program helps reduce the homeless population of dogs in North Carolina and promote adoption of unwanted animals.
In [...]
Today’s pampered pooches are stepping out in style. From apparel bejeweled in Swarovski crystals to sporty-
camouflaged fleeced hoodies, members of the canine crowd “dressed to the nines” strutted their stuff on runways last month during Manhattan’s fourth annual Pet Fashion Week.
The movement to turn four-legged barkers into fashionistas is perpetuated in the name of charity [...]
by Erica Pytlovany
Are you walking your dog, or is your dog walking you?
A dog pulling on a leash is a common, but curable problem. You can teach your dog how to walk politely on a leash, using firm, positive approaches. Even 8-week-old puppies can learn; no special collar or tool is needed.
METHODS
If your dog pulls [...]
by Dr. Matthew J. Heller
Pets and people today share a common bond: We rarely consume a completely balanced diet that meets our nutritional needs and promotes optimal health. Everyone knows that vitamins are fundamental to health and wellness, and concerned pet owners are beginning to realize that even the best food sources may not be [...]
As people are becoming more conscious of food and nutrition, they are also concerned about what their pets are eating. Understanding pet food labels is key in establishing a healthy diet for your furry companions.
Simply put, dogs and cats are not grain eaters. Yet most commercial premium-grade food is loaded with corn, wheat and soy [...]
