Shelter Raises Money, Creates Beautiful Artwork Through ‘Poorly Drawn Pets’ Event
What’s fancier than getting a portrait of a family member drawn? Especially a pet? An animal shelter is providing its supporters with this kind of art, though it may not be quite as refined as some other commissions. The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County in Washington State is holding its annual Poorly Drawn Pets event. Now in its fifth year, it encourages supporters to donate $30, and when they do, they’ll receive a unique work of art based on a photo they’ve shared. These portraits can all be seen in a Facebook...
A Day in the Life of “Dr. Harley,” APA!’s Resident Therapy Dog
Jan 24, 2024 Hi, I’m Dr. Harley (aka “Dog-tor” Harley). I’m the resident therapy dog here at Austin Pets Alive!, providing a much-needed listening ear, emotional support and calming presence to the humans working hard to get dogs like me adopted. My days are pretty jam-packed and I never know what they’ll bring. Sometimes my clients present with a classic case of separation anxiety, while other times I’m just a sounding board for their doggy drama. I get asked all the time what it’s like to be a...
The Fascinating World of Animal Vision and Its Impact on Survival
Animal vision is a fascinating area of study that sheds light on how different species perceive the world. Unlike humans, animals have evolved a diverse array of visual systems, each tailored to their specific environmental needs. This variety is not just about seeing more colors; it’s about survival, finding food, avoiding predators, and navigating complex ecosystems. Understanding these differences not only fascinates us but also provides vital insights into animal behavior and ecology. Photo: PexelsDogs primarily see in shades of...
Lash Salon Has a Full-Time Feline Employee Who “Makes Biscuits” for Every Client
You’ve probably been to a few establishments in your lifetime that had a resident cat hanging around. Usually these privileged felines spend their days lounging in a windowsill or winding around newcomers’ legs, demanding to be petted. But there’s one cat who not only hangs out in her owner’s shop – she works there full-time. The cat, who goes by the name “Kitty,” works hard at her mom’s lash salon. While her mom gives people eyelash treatments, she laboriously “makes biscuits” for...
Over 150 Homeless Dogs Living At Dump In Greece Were Neutered, Microchipped And Vaccinated Thanks To Your Support
When we and our non-profit partner, Greater Good Charities, heard about the hundreds of homeless dogs living at a dump in northern Greece we asked for your help to care for the starving and ill dogs. Thanks to your generous support and a local animal organization called Animal Action Greece, the dogs are receiving food and water while they wait to be rounded up and examined. So far, 157 adult dogs and puppies have been neutered or spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and treated for parvo, mange, and other illnesses. Photo: Animal Action Greece...
Can Old Dogs Learn New Tricks? Age Is Just a Number For Many Canines
It’s a common belief that older dogs are set in their ways, unable to learn new behaviors or tricks. However, this notion has been largely debunked. Contrary to the old adage, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” recent insights reveal that not only can older dogs learn new tricks, but they can also benefit greatly from the process. Photo: PexelsSenior dogs can benefit from the mental stimulation of learning new things. Learning Abilities in Older Dogs Dogs, regardless of age, are inherently good learners....
7 Tips to Stop Your Cat from Scratching Furniture
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...
Decoding Canine Tails — A Matter of Emotional Survival for Your Furry Friend
Dogs, our loyal companions, communicate with us in various ways, one of which is tail wagging. This behavior, often misconstrued as a mere sign of happiness, is in fact a complex form of communication. Tail wagging can convey a range of emotions and intentions, and understanding it can deepen the bond between humans and their canine friends. Photo: PexelsDogs wag their tails as a form of communication, not just for expressing happiness. The Science Behind Tail Wagging Tail wagging is primarily a social signal, integral to dog communication....
6-Year-Old Cat Failed By His Family Needs A New One ASAP
Meet Arthur. The six-year-old ginger cat has spent his entire life with one family and loved them dearly. That is why he was so confused when he was brought to Humane Society of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The sweet fella was surrendered because his family stated they could no longer care for him. He doesn’t understand what he did wrong and spends his days curled up in a ball on his bed. The shelter team is heartbroken for him and wants to find him a loving home soon. Screenshot: TikTok/@humanebroward The loud and...
Smart Dog Helps Police Rescue Her Owner from a Hole in the Ice
Michigan State Police officer Kammeron Bennetts was the first responder on the scene after a 65-year-old man was reported to have fallen through some thin ice on a local lake in Grand Traverse County, Michigan. Officer Bennetts worked as quickly as he could to get the man out, but he wasn’t able to get close enough to do much good. Officer Bennetts edged out onto the ice as far as he could safely do so and threw an emergency rescue disk toward the man, but it came to a rest 5-10 feet away from him each time. It was the only tool the...
Sweet Dog Abandoned In NYC Apartment Has Been Waiting At Shelter For Over 200 Days For A Home
A 4-year-old shelter dog named Yas Queen is learning to trust humans again after being left behind by her owner in a NYC apartment when they were evicted. The sweet dog was taken in by Animal Care Centers of NYC. She has been winning the hearts of staff and volunteers for the past several months. She is the longest-stay dog at the Manhattan shelter and has been waiting to find a home for over 210 days. While she can take a little time to warm up to people, she is a complete sweetheart and just wants to find someone to love. The adorable pup...
Holiday Horror as Family Pet Undergoes Life-Saving Operation After Eating 50 Hair Bands
In a baffling incident, a two-year-old pug named Ham from Sherborne, Dorset, underwent emergency surgery after ingesting an astonishing 200 grams of hairbands. The dog’s owner, Victoria Northwood, 50, was startled by the revelation that her pet had consumed such a large number of everyday items. Photo: PexelsRegularly inspect your home for small objects like coins, buttons, and batteries that pets could swallow. Discovery of the Hazard The saga unfolded when Northwood noticed a change in Ham’s behavior over the Christmas period....
Adaptogens—Solutions for Animal Stress!
The world can be a very stressful place for dogs, cats, and other companion animals. While it may be impossible to eliminate stressors from your fur baby’s life, there are things you can do to help them manage stress, and that includes adding adaptogens to their daily diet. COMMON STRESSORS FOR DOGS AND CATS Dogs and cats experience stress for reasons that can be physical, behavioral, and physiological. Depending on the animal and the situation, possible causes of stress can include: Being alone Loud noises Unfamiliar places Strangers...
Human Animal Support Services (HASS) Announces Highly-Anticipated Launch of the HASS Playbook
(AUSTIN, TX) January 23, 2024–Human Animal Support Services (HASS), an international project revolutionizing the animal welfare industry by uniting the human and animal welfare approach, announced today the launch of the HASS Playbook–a FREE comprehensive portfolio of how-to guides aligned with the HASS pathways. The HASS Playbook aims to provide animal welfare organizations with innovative programming and best practices to rise above existing sheltering system challenges and increase capacity for care within their...
The latest and greatest in Maddie’s Insights
Maddie’s® Insights is a monthly webcast that shares research to help you in your work, with a focus on practical tips and applications of that research. Having begun in September 2022, there is an abundance of previous webcasts for you to peruse and well as well as an exciting future lineup! You can register for Maddie’s® Insights now. These webcasts also offer the opportunity for continuing education credit: Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA), National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA),...
Woman Spends Weeks Trying to Rescue Stray, Finally Succeeds By Luring Her with Chips and Beans
This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog! I found this sweet girl while living in Phoenix, one extremely hot summer. CAT. PHOTO: PIXABAY / ELLE RITTER I worked for a car rental company, and one morning when I was opening the gate, I saw this tiny thing dart out from under a car and run under a fence on the other side of the lot. At the time, I thought she was a black cat. She was living between two buildings in a space that was...
Woman in Maine Reunites with Pet Cat 10 Years After He Went Missing
When you first get a pet, there’s the question of whether you want to get them a microchip for safety purposes. A story out of Maine may sway you… and make you a little teary-eyed. The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland recently shared a picture of a reunion a decade in the making. The organization says a cat named Stewart was recently brought in by a member of the public, and staff got to work trying to identify him. When they checked for a microchip, they found contact information for Rose Dorian. Dorian hadn’t seen...
Is Your Pet Overweight? Here’s How to Tell
Obesity has become a major epidemic in the United States and other parts of the world, and the problem extends to more than just humans. It’s very easy for our pets to become obese as well, especially if they live indoors, lead sedentary lifestyles, and have unlimited access to food. More than half of U.S. dogs and cats are now overweight or obese. Photo: Adobe Stock/boryanam For the most part, animals and humans were not built to be living the types of lives people and pets live now, but there are things we can do to keep ourselves and...
Learn the Unseen Dangers of Winter Your Pet Faces Every Day
Extreme cold weather poses significant risks to pets. As responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to understand and implement strategies to keep them safe and healthy. Here are some practical tips and expert advice to ensure your pets’ well-being during frigid conditions. Photo: PexelsPets can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite in extreme cold. Recognizing the Risks of Cold Weather to Pets Pets face various dangers in cold weather, including frostbite, hypothermia, and increased susceptibility to injuries. Like humans, pets’...
Woman Rescues Seal Entangled In Fishing Net “Begging For Help” On Beach
Seals are marine mammals who are often seen basking in the sun on beaches and docks. While people are often tempted to approach for a closer look, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reminds people and their pets to always stay at least 50 yards away from seals. This is a rule that two woman strolling along their local beach always follow, until the day they saw a seal in desperate need of help. The seal was entangled in a fishing net and struggling to get free. As one brave woman slowly approached the stressed seal, the...
