The fulfillment of a promise to a miniature schnauzer celebrates 30 years, thanks to Dave and Cheryl Duffield
Maddie’s Fund®, a family foundation established in 1994 by Dave and Cheryl Duffield as the fulfillment of a promise to their Miniature Schnauzer, Maddie, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Maddie’s Fund was created by a family who has a history – in work and philanthropy – of finding innovative solutions to tough problems and trying new things. They’re known for investing in leadership, putting people at the center, setting high goals and measuring impact. Through this particular promise,...
Is Your Dog Stressed – or Depressed?
Dogs are as prone to stress, anxiety and depression as we are. Knowing how and why these issues manifest, and the differences between them, will help you better understand your dog’s behavior. Stress, anxiety and depression are common mental health problems among humans. They can also affect our dogs. When it comes to our canine companions, however, it can be challenging to know exactly how they are feeling, and what their behavior might be signaling. Because your dog can’t tell you he’s stressed, anxious or depressed, you...
The Natural World: A Playground for Your Dog’s Well-being
Diet, daily walks, and regular veterinary checkups all play important parts in being a good dog parent. But did you know spending time in nature also has a role? Giving your dog opportunities to explore the outdoors can lead to a happier, healthier companion. Let’s dive into the many ways nature can benefit your four-legged family member! Nature’s Gym When your dog has access to natural environments, he’s essentially getting a free gym membership! For dogs, romping through fields, hiking trails, or splashing in clean streams...
Camp Maddie: Pet-Inclusive Housing Edition is coming on November 13!
Camp Maddie is back! Join us for the third edition of Camp Maddie, a free virtual half-day event on Wednesday, November 13th from 9AM-1PM PT / 12PM-4PM ET. Across the country, many people face tough choices due to housing restrictions, often having to give up their pets. At Camp Maddie: Pet-Inclusive Housing Edition, we will cover a variety of topics related to pet housing in presentations, videos and question and answer sessions. Presenters will share ideas about: • Understanding human homelessness response systems for better...
Celebrating the 75th Austin FC Honorary Mascot Adopted from Austin Pets Alive!
Sep 23, 2024 Have you ever attended an Austin FC match at the Q2 Stadium? If so, you have likely met one of the Austin FC Honorary Mascot dogs! This is the fourth season the MLS club has invited Austin Pets Alive! to introduce Austin FC fans to dogs ready to leave the shelter for a home. Austin FC has featured dogs from APA! who have survived parvovirus and distemper, dogs who have been injured and use custom wheelchairs and puppies who were born in the care of the shelter. “This unique partnership has increased visibility of the dogs...
Keeping Your Dog and Family Safe: Understanding and Preventing Zoonotic Diseases
Let’s talk about something important that affects both our canine friends and us – zoonotic diseases. These are infections that can pass between animals and humans. While our dogs bring us joy and companionship, they can sometimes carry diseases that might make us sick. But don’t worry! With the right knowledge and precautions, we can keep everyone healthy and tail-wagging. Leptospirosis: Sneaky Water-Lover First on our list is leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that dogs can pick up from contaminated water or soil....
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Safety net programming, foster-to-adopt and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Does your animal organization have a successful foster-to-adopt program?Does your animal organization have a successful foster-to-adopt program for individuals who want to “foster” an animal before committing to adoption, to ensure it’s the right fit for their home? Or are you looking to start one? Kelli Jordan of Tallahassee Animal Services recently shared on Maddie’s® Pet Forum that they’re looking to start one,… Learn More...
Be Prepared: Common Emergencies Every Dog Parent Should Know
Dog parents see their fair share of emergency cases. But here’s the good news: being informed about common emergencies can help you stay calm and take the right actions when your dog needs you most. Here are some situations you should be aware of. When Your Dog’s Belly Becomes a Ticking Time Bomb Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition in which a dog’s stomach fills with gas and potentially twists on itself. Large, deep-chested breeds are especially prone. Watch for symptoms like a...
On the Fence About a GPS Dog Fence? Here Are 4 Ways to Make Sure Your GPS Works for You and Your Dog
Wireless dog fences are easy, convenient ways to give your dog freedom while also keeping them safe. Let’s look at four ways to make your GPS dog fence work for you! A GPS dog fence creates a virtual boundary around a property to help keep your dog safe and secure while they explore, roam, and live their best life. Wireless dog fences have numerous benefits compared to physical fences or traditional invisible fences, including they don’t require installation around your property, they’re reliable and accurate, you can...
Does your animal organization have a successful foster-to-adopt program?
Does your animal organization have a successful foster-to-adopt program for individuals who want to “foster” an animal before committing to adoption, to ensure it’s the right fit for their home? Or are you looking to start one? Kelli Jordan of Tallahassee Animal Services recently shared on Maddie’s® Pet Forum that they’re looking to start one, and would love to hear how your organization manages it, how it’s structured and whether you have example application forms or guidelines you could share. Folks...
