How Dogs Understand Us
Have you ever wondered how your furry friend understands what you’re saying? Let’s dive into some fascinating research that sheds light on how dogs process human speech! The Rhythm of Dog Talk Did you know dogs have their own “speech” rhythm? Scientists have discovered that when our canine companions vocalize, they do so at a slower pace than humans. This means the natural rhythm of dog sounds is different from the way we typically talk. Humans Adapt to Their Canine Listeners Here’s something interesting: when we...
The top 5 Community Conversations of all time
Maddie’s Fund® is celebrating 30 years! To commemorate, we are taking a look back at some of the impact that has been made for companions and pets (thanks to you!), as well as looking forward. Today, we’re highlighting the growth and impact of Community Conversations. These 50-minute weekly calls started as a safe space for animal well-being professionals in 2020 during Covid, and officially became “Community Conversations” in 2022. Today, the calls are a collaborative space to share exciting new...
How animal shelters prepare for emergencies
Learn how animal shelters prepare for emergencies, ensuring the safety of pets with effective plans, training, and community support. From electrical fires to natural disasters, a range of emergencies impact animal shelters, just as they do our homes or businesses. It can be challenging enough to ensure your own dog or cat stays safe during a crisis. But how do animal shelters, which often have dozens of dogs and cats in their care, manage to keep their four-footed residents protected and cared for in case of emergencies? Three rules for...
4 Expert Tips to Support a Sensitive Stomach in Dogs and Cats
A sensitive stomach in dogs and cats can be a challenge for pet parents, but these four tips will help you dial in their diet for better digestion and fewer symptoms! Pet parents know the importance of a healthy diet, but when you have a dog or cat with a sensitive tummy, what you feed them can make all the difference. Having a sensitive stomach can cause a great deal of discomfort and even behavioral changes and other symptoms. But with the right diet and a few other simple changes, you can ensure your dog or cat gets all the nutrients they...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: ASPCA grant opportunities, pet-inclusive housing and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Learn how to advocate for and design programs to support pet-inclusive housing solutionsHomelessness is a growing epidemic in the United States. According to the State of Homelessness: 2024 Edition report released by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, a record-high 653,104 people experienced homelessness on a single night in January 2023. More people than ever are experiencing homelessness for the first time and severe housing...
How prison dog programs transforms the lives of inmates
Discover how prison dog programs help inmates transform their lives through the healing bond with dogs. When it comes to the life-changing impact that dogs can have on humans, probably the most striking examples come from prison inmates. These hurt, hardened, embittered individuals frequently respond more positively to dogs than they do to their fellow humans. Thanks to a growing number of prison dog programs, more and more offenders are turning their lives around. Insecure attachments can predispose people to criminal activity According to...
How Homeopathy Can Help Cats With Arthritis
Arthritis can be a painful condition for cats, and affects their mobility and overall quality of life. While conventional treatments are available, many cat parents are exploring homeopathy as a natural alternative. This blog post will delve into how homeopathy can help manage arthritis in cats, providing insights into its benefits and remedies. What is Homeopathy? Homeopathy is a holistic approach to medicine that focuses on treating the whole animal rather than just the symptoms of a disease. The principle behind homeopathy is “like...
The Power of Pets and Volunteering: Enhancing Emotional Resilience and Well-Being
Oct 10, 2024 In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is vital, and two impactful ways to enhance emotional well-being are through pets and volunteering. Both can foster resilience, improve overall well-being, and promote a positive outlook on life. Companionship and Social Connections Pets provide unconditional companionship, lifting spirits and alleviating loneliness. Interacting with animals boosts oxytocin and lowers cortisol, contributing to emotional health. Similarly, volunteering helps build social connections, leading to...
Tooth Resorption in Senior Dogs: A Guide for Caring Dog Parents
As our faithful companions age, they may face various health challenges, including tooth resorption. This condition occurs when the body begins to break down and absorb the structures of the tooth, causing discomfort and affecing your dog’s quality of life. While veterinary intervention is often necessary, natural approaches can complement traditional treatments and support your senior dog’s oral health. Early Detection is Key Tooth resorption can be tricky to spot, but attentiveness can make a difference. Watch for signs like...
Learn how to advocate for and design programs to support pet-inclusive housing solutions
Homelessness is a growing epidemic in the United States. According to the State of Homelessness: 2024 Edition report released by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, a record-high 653,104 people experienced homelessness on a single night in January 2023. More people than ever are experiencing homelessness for the first time and severe housing cost burden is on the rise. A growing body of evidence also shows that housing and homelessness has significant impacts on the surrender of animals to animal shelters, with...