Why Do Dogs Kick Their Legs When You Scratch Them? 6 Possible Reasons Explained
Most dog parents know about their dogs’ sweet spot on their bellies, which causes them to kick their legs. This is a common behavior, but not all dogs react in the same way, and some have a reflex spot elsewhere on their bodies. Kicking might be a sign of encouragement to convince you to pet them more, a sign of excitement, or a sign of pain or distress. Working out why your dog is kicking and whether they’re enjoying being scratched requires looking for other signs and reading their body language. In this article, we’ll...
Dog Shot Several Times During Argument Needs Emergency Surgery To Survive
Meet Lucky. This six-year-old German shepherd mix was at death’s door when he arrived at NYC Second Chance Rescue. The poor pup was the victim of a heated argument between neighbors which turned violent. He was shot in the chest and abdomen and was bleeding out. The dog’s owner surrendered him to the rescue, and they rushed him to the vet. Photo: NYC Second Chance Rescue At the animal hospital, Lucky received an emergency blood transfusion. This helped stabilize him, but he wasn’t out of danger yet. He refused to eat and...
Am I a Helicopter Dog Parent? Ways I May Be Overprotective of Penny
Hi, I’m Savanna! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my spunky Chihuahua mix, Penny. In case you aren’t familiar with the term, a “helicopter parent” is someone that tends to hover over their children, being overprotective or in some cases, over-invested, trying to control absolutely every aspect of their lives. While the term usually applies to human children, I think it’s possible to be a helicopter parent to a dog as well. Why do I believe that? Well, because I think that sometimes I...
Essential Tips to Prevent Pet Heatstroke This Summer
Summer can be a challenging time for our furry friends. As temperatures soar, pets are at risk of overheating, dehydration, and even heatstroke. To keep your pets safe and cool during the hot summer months, here are essential tips and expert advice. Photo: PexelsAlways provide fresh, clean water for your pets during hot days. Hydration is Key Water is crucial for pets, especially during summer. Always ensure your pets have access to fresh, clean water. Dehydration can happen quickly, so check their water bowls frequently and refill them as...
Ultimate Checklist of Essentials for Traveling With 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...
Stranded Dolphins in Cape Cod Face Deadly Battle for Survival
More than 100 Atlantic white-sided dolphins found themselves in a dire situation on the shores of Cape Cod. The mass stranding, involving up to 125 dolphins, occurred at The Gut — or Great Island — in Wellfleet, Massachusetts. This incident has prompted an extensive rescue operation, highlighting both the challenges and the broader implications for the species. Photo: PexelsOver 100 Atlantic white-sided dolphins stranded on Cape Cod. The Scene at Cape Cod On Friday, June 28, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Return to Home program, Shelter Medicine Conference and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Peoria County Animal Protection Services shares its winning Return to Home programWith more pets going missing on Fourth of July than any other day of the year, having a Return to Home program is imperative to keeping pets and people together. This post originally was published in May 2023. Looking to improve your return to home rates at your animal organization? Return to Home Challenge Overall Winner,… Learn More The May Weekly Community...
Can You Put Aquaphor on Dogs? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead Aquaphor is a petroleum jelly-based moisturizer that is used primarily by people to treat dry and irritated skin. It can help with diaper rash in babies and even skin burns from radiation therapy, and it contains emollients that soften skin. Not only is Aquaphor beneficial for people, but it can also be used on dogs, and even if your dog decides to lick the petroleum jelly off its paws, nose, or...
Give Your Dog or Cat Better Gut Health with Ashwagandha
If your dog or cat suffers from consistent tummy troubles, ashwagandha may just be the answer to their whimpers. As everyone can attest to – from toddler to old-timer – there’s nothing quite like a sore stomach to make you feel miserable. Newsflash: our beloved fur babies feel exactly the same way! If your dog is a compulsive grass-eater/vomiter, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about. Even if they’re not, you only need to witness one explosive bout of diarrhea, complete with accompanying sad,...
Jobs for Cats: Nine Positions That Our Feline Friends Have Held
We’re all familiar with the concept of dogs that work, from herders to search and rescue pups to killer whale watchers? Canines aren’t the only domestic pets that work a 9 to 5, though. Cats do, too, and here are some of the positions they’re proud to fill. Emotional Support Animal PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK / THODONAL Much like dogs, cats can provide comfort and soothe anxiety in their owners, as emotional support animals. They’re well-equipped to tackle this role. Research has shown that being around cats can reduce stress...