Apply now for Online Instructor-Led Courses!
Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Maddie’s Fund® Online Instructor-Led Courses may be the answer! The fall 2024 application window for all 11 offerings closes on August 30, 2024 at 2PM PT / 5PM ET. New this term is Field Services: Tools and Equipment, which will dive deep into mastering the safe, effective and humane utilization of standard-issue field services equipment. “Great class! The instructor and all the guest...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Online Instructor-Led Courses registration, Return to Home ideas and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Registration for Online Instructor-Led Courses begins today!Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Be sure to save the date for Maddie’s Fund® Online Instructor-Led Courses! The fall 2024 application window closes on August 30, 2024 at 5pm Eastern. View the Offerings 2 Return to Home ideas to start using nowThe ideas are still very helpful in returning pets...
Human Animal Support Services (HASS) Announces Industry-Expert Developed List of Intake Reasons for Owner Surrender
(AUSTIN, TX) August 15, 2024–Human Animal Support Services (HASS), an international project revolutionizing the animal welfare industry by uniting human and animal welfare, announces an industry first–a standardized list of intake reasons for owner surrender. A major collaboration with industry experts such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), Shelter Animals Count (SAC), behavior and veterinary professionals, animal welfare organization-led working groups, focus groups, and preliminary testing within HASS pilot...
Why Positive Reinforcement Is the Best Way to Train Your Dog
Aversive dog training methods use punishment and intimidation, often leading to physical harm, fear and aggression. Positive reinforcement training, which comes from a gentle, reward-based approach, is much more effective as well as humane. Over the past few decades, we have seen a shift from aversive dog training methods to force-free, positive reinforcement training. Instead of punishing a dog for unwanted behaviors, positive reinforcement training rewards the dog for behaviors we do want. Not only is this a much kinder and safer way to...
Registration for Online Instructor-Led Courses begins August 19!
Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Be sure to save the date for Maddie’s Fund® Online Instructor-Led Courses! The fall 2024 application window for all 11 offerings opens on August 19, 2024 and closes on August 30, 2024. New this term is Field Services: Tools and Equipment, which will dive deep into mastering the safe, effective and humane utilization of standard-issue field services equipment. “Thank you for effectively...
Create a Backyard Agility Course for Your Dog!
Submission Guidelines Thank you for your interest in writing for Animal Wellness. As the #1 natural health magazine for pets in North America, we take pride in providing our readers with the information they need to make wise health care choices for their animal companions. Our publication embraces the entire holistic spectrum, from physical health issues to the emotional and spiritual well being of our animals. We welcome unsolicited articles and story outlines as long as they focus on holistic healing, whether physical, emotional or...
The Most Common Endocrine Diseases in Dogs and Cats — Part 2
From diabetes to Addison’s disease, a variety of disorders can affect your dog or cat’s endocrine system. This two-part article looks at the most common endocrine diseases affecting our animal companions. Your dog or cat’s endocrine system is made up of glands that secrete hormones to affect her body in various ways. The glands of the endocrine system regulate a range of functions, including metabolism, hair growth, muscle strength, digestion, and reproduction. Like other systems of the body, your dog or cat’s...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Online Instructor-Led Courses, managing arousal in the animal shelter setting webcast and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Webcast: Managing arousal in the shelter settingIf you’re looking to bring new ideas to your organizations about dog and cat behavior then consider joining Maddie’s® Monthly Behavior Connection. This monthly webcast is held on the fourth Thursday of the month at 12PM PT/3PM ET and is an opportunity hear from speakers about behavior medications, modifying animal behavior, assessing and improving animal well-being… Learn More 10 questions to ask...
Wildfire Smoke — How to Protect Your Dog or Cat
Wildfires are getting larger, fiercer and more frequent, which means poor air quality from smoke is becoming a common and widespread problem. Here’s how to protect your dog or cat’s health from its effects. Over the last several years, the wildfire season has become unprecedented in many regions of the world, including the US, Canada, and Europe. Around the globe, in fact, wildfires are growing ever more severe, intense and frequent. Even if you don’t live in or near an affected area, smoke and particulates spread through...
7 Common Household Items Toxic to Cats
Alliums, cleaning products, and low quality essential oils are just a few of the common household items that can make your kitty sick. Cats are known for their curiosity. While this is an endearing trait, it can sometimes get them into trouble. Making sure your kitty stays safe includes keeping her from getting into things that could make her sick. This article highlights seven common household items that are toxic to cats. Check the list to see how many are in your own home, and take steps to prevent your feline friend from coming into...