Cats Can Get Hot Spots Too? Here’s How to Treat and Prevent Them
Hot spots are a common problem pet parents often see in dogs, but did you know cats can also get them? Let’s learn more about hot spots on cats, including how to get rid of them and stop them from coming back. No cat parent wants to see their fur baby suffer from itchy, painful hot spots, but these pesky areas can be difficult to treat and manage without the right plan. Hot spots have many causes, and while it’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian to identify the problem, it’s also important to take immediate steps to...
5 tips for adopting pets out of foster homes
Have you considered letting your foster caregivers process the adoptions of their foster pets from their homes? This may seem daunting at first, but the benefits are worth considering: multiple studies have shown that pets adopted from their foster homes are significantly less likely to be returned. Having foster caregivers process their foster pets’ adoptions could save hours for adoptions staff, giving them more time to support the adopters they do work with. Lastly, doesn’t it just make sense for the person who knows the pet...
What We’re Learning from Community Programs
[embedded content] What are leaders of community-centered programs in Baltimore and Dallas learning as they work with people and pets beyond the shelter? Hear from them on the many issues they face and the questions their experience has raised: What societal factors contribute to shelter intakes? How do you work with your community members to understand what they need and to divert intakes by offering community resources; and how are these leaders reaching towards understanding their impact? Source: Human Animal Support...
6 Natural Approaches to Treating Ear Infections in Dogs
Ear infections are common in dogs, and cause discomfort and distress for our furry friends. While conventional treatments often involve antibiotics and medications, natural approaches can offer effective relief and support overall ear health. Let’s explore seven gentle yet powerful natural approaches to treating ear infections in dogs. 1. Regular Ear Cleaning Maintaining clean ears is the first line of defense against infections. Use a natural ear cleaning solution made with ingredients like apple cider vinegar and distilled water. This...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Foster recruitment for pets with behavioral needs, certification program and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. 6 tips for recruiting fosters for pets with behavioral needs Finding foster caregivers for pets who have behavioral needs can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are six strategies animal welfare organizations across the country are using to do just this! 1. Prioritize “unicorn” fosters who have ideal home set-ups for some of your more challenging pets (people who don’t… Learn More Addressing the...
Ashwagandha to manage stress in cats for savvy cat parents, study says
Discover how savvy cat parents can use ashwagandha to manage stress in cats, backed by research on its effectiveness and safety. We’ve all seen them: the wide-eyed cats with twitchy tails, hiding behind furniture and meowing excessively. Cat stress takes many forms and often results from changes in their environment or routine. Stress can affect these sensitive creatures in various ways. Whether it’s a move to a new home, a visit to the vet, or simply the arrival of a new family member. Symptoms of stress in cats can include...
Fermented Foods: The Missing Link in Your Dog’s Gut Health
When it comes to canine nutrition, fermented vegetables are powerful allies for digestive health. Fermentation is an ancient preservation technique, used for millennia by cultures worldwide. It creates probiotic-rich foods that can transform your dog’s microbiome and overall wellness. The Science Behind Fermentation During fermentation, beneficial bacteria break down complex compounds, making nutrients more bioavailable. This process creates natural probiotics, enzymes, and short-chain fatty acids that support digestive health. These...
Bach Flower Remedies for Dogs: A Gentle Path to Emotional Harmony
Just like humans, dogs experience a wide spectrum of emotions that can affect their overall well-being. Bach Flower Remedies, developed by Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930s, offer a gentle approach to supporting emotional balance. These subtle yet powerful essences work on the principle that emotional harmony promotes physical health. The Science of Subtle Energy Bach Flower Remedies are created by infusing spring water with wildflowers, allowing the water to capture the flower’s energetic imprint. These remedies have garnered attention for...
Hemp Oil and Canine Seizures: A Ray of Hope for Natural Management
For families whose beloved dogs struggle with seizures, hemp oil has emerged as a topic of significant interest. Derived from industrial hemp plants, this natural compound contains beneficial cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system — a crucial regulatory network in all mammals. The Science Behind Hemp Oil Hemp oil works by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the nervous system. Unlike traditional anticonvulsant medications, it may help regulate neural activity without severe side effects. The non-psychoactive...
Support Your Dog’s Immune System with Beta Carotene
Beta carotene gives orange and yellow fruits and vegetables their colors. It also has many health benefits, and beta carotene for dogs can help support the immune system and eye health. You’ve probably heard that you should eat carrots to improve your eyesight—maybe even as often as you’ve heard an apple a day keeps the doctor away! And while carrots may not actually improve visual acuity, they are good for eye health. Beyond that, carrots also support immune health and have other benefits, and the secret is beta carotene....
