Why Every Month Counts in Maintaining Your Pet’s Dental Wellness
Dental health is a crucial aspect of our pets’ overall well-being, often overlooked. National Pet Dental Health Month in February shines a spotlight on this vital issue, but maintaining our pets’ dental health is a year-round responsibility. There’s no overstating the importance of dental care in pets. So, let’s go through some practical advice for pet owners to follow throughout the year. Photo: PexelsMost pets show signs of dental disease by age 3. Why Pet Dental Health Matters Dental health in pets is more than just...
Pennsylvania SPCA Asks People To Donate $13 on December 13 To Local Shelters In #TaylorSwiftChallenge
Taylor Swift is known for her music and love of cats. She is the mother of three adorable felines, Benjamin Button, Meredith Grey, and Olivia Benson. Meredith and Olivia are both Scottish folds who were adopted in 2011 and 2014. Benjamin the rescued Ragdoll cat joined the family in 2019. They are often featured on her social media and Benjamin Button even made the cover of TIME magazine announcing Swift as their 2023 Person of the Year. The magazine cover inspired Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) to come up with their #TaylorSwiftChallenge to...
Minnesota Firefighters Rescue Dog Struggling In 8-Foot Waves In Lake Superior
Duluth Minnesota Fire Department (DFD) immediately responded to a call about a dog who escaped his leash and jumped into the icy waters of Lake Superior near Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge. The dog quickly found himself struggling to stay above the 8-foot waves as his terrified owner called out to him. Firefighters knew the general area the dog was in but needed help pinpointing the exact location. “Saint Louis County Dispatchers were able to use cameras on the lift bridge being controlled by the bridge operator to help locate the...
The Link Between Doggie Dental Health and Overall Well-Being
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...
Surrendered Dog Struggling To Adjust To Noisy Shelter Life Hopes For New Home Soon
Shelter life is hard on dogs with the unfamiliar smells, people, loud noises, and a lot of alone time. Staff and volunteers do their best to shower the animals with love and attention, but it doesn’t compare to a loving home of their own. Mack, a five-year-old pit bull, was surrendered to Humane Society of Broward County by his family when they moved away and couldn’t take him with. Confused and heartbroken, he now spends his days waiting for someone to rescue him from this strange place. The shelter posted his story on TikTok to...
Study Finds Humans Can Read Dog Facial Expressions
A dog’s body language, posture, and facial expressions can tell you how they are feeling. Dog owners strive to communicate effectively with their beloved pets and new research out of George Washington University states that humans can read what is written all over their dog’s face. All the time and not just when they misbehave and give you those sad puppy-dog eyes. The study was published in the journal Animals and revealed that humans were able to read the expressions of a dog with a single-colored (plainer) face easier than...
Endangered Bald and Golden Eagles Targeted in Black Market Scheme
America’s national birds, the Golden and Bald Eagles, are threatened by a grim and clandestine trade. After their indictments in Montana, Simon Paul and Travis John Branson face serious allegations for illegally killing and trafficking these protected species on the Flathead Indian Reservation, unraveling a disturbing tale of wildlife crime. Photo: PexelsThe illegal bird trade often targets rare and endangered species for exotic pet markets. A Chilling Enterprise The scale of the operation uncovered in Montana is alarming. As the...
New Jersey Witnesses Unprecedented Arrival of Red-Flanked Bluetail
In a striking wildlife event, the red-flanked bluetail, a small bird normally residing in East Asia, has been unexpectedly sighted in New Jersey. This occurrence has garnered significant attention from birdwatchers and ecologists, offering insights into rare migratory behaviors and broader ecological shifts. Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Olli-Pekka KarlinThe Red-flanked Bluetail, scientifically known as Tarsiger cyanurus, is a small passerine bird. Unprecedented Discovery in Eastern North America The red-flanked bluetail, known scientifically as...
Dr. Kwane Stewart is CNN’s Hero of the Year!
Dr. Kwane Stewart, veterinarian and co-founder of Project Street Vet and a Maddie’s Fund® grantee, has been named at the 2023 CNN Hero of the Year for his incredible work with pets and people. As CNN Hero of the Year, Dr. Stewart will receive $100,000 to expand his work. During his acceptance speech, he promised to split the monies evenly amongst his nine fellow nominees. “An act of kindness can change your day, change someone’s day. An act or gesture of kindness can change somebody’s life,” Dr. Stewart...
Why Mushrooms Are So Good for Your Dog’s Gut Microbiome
From Lion’s Mane to Maitake, edible mushrooms are rich in prebiotic fiber and other nutrients that help improve the health of your dog’s gut microbiome. Shiitake, Maitake and oyster mushrooms are considered some of the world’s tastiest edible mushrooms — and they’re just a few of the flavorful fungal delights available worldwide. But mushrooms aren’t just delicious. They also provide solid nutrition to your dog (and yourself!) thanks to their high levels of good quality protein and fiber, and their low...
Virginia Zoo Faces Animal Cruelty Probe as Over 100 Animals Rescued
A harrowing situation unfolded at the Natural Bridge Zoo in Virginia, where authorities have intervened in a case of alarming animal cruelty. Following thorough investigations and searches, over 100 animals, both living and deceased, were seized by law enforcement in response to suspected abuse and neglect, reports the New York Daily News. Photo: PexelsRoadside zoos often lack the resources for proper animal care compared to larger, accredited institutions. Shocking Discoveries The extent of neglect at the zoo is deeply disturbing....
Puppy Rescued From Behind Dumpster Had Parvo and a Broken Tail, Now He’s Grown and Healthy
The following story was submitted to the From Woofs to Wonders Photo and Story contest. The top three finishers received a $250 Animal Rescue Site store shopping spree, as well as $2,000 in cash and supplies for their favorite shelter. To read more stories, click here! I will always be grateful for the passerby that heard the faint whimpering from behind the dumpster. I’m so grateful they stopped to check when they could have kept walking. PHOTO: DANA MACLEAN It was four puppies, barely 6-weeks-old and in very rough shape, with various...
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Shares Photos of Rare Piebald Elk Spotted During Survey
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) does important survey work in the wintertime to gain an understanding of current species populations throughout the state. On a recent excursion, they spotted something out of the ordinary. In a Twitter post, the CPW Southwest Region shared that wildlife biologist Evan Phillips spotted a rare piebald cow elk on a big game classification helicopter flight. Piebald animals have white spots or blotches paired with darker fur. According to the post, the trait occurs in roughly one out of every 100,000 elk. In the...
Study Links Cat Parasite To Increased Frailty in Elderly Populations
Toxoplasma gondii, a seemingly innocuous parasite found in cat feces, has recently become a focal point in geriatric health research. A new study indicates a potential link between this common parasite and increased frailty in older adults. Photo: PexelsT. Gondii is a common parasite found in cat feces that can infect humans. T. Gondii: A Ubiquitous Parasite with Hidden Dangers Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread parasite, with an estimated 10-15% of the U.S. population having been exposed, according to the United States Centers for Disease...
Overlooked Dogs At Florida Shelter Give “Puppy Eyes” To Everyone Who Passes By To Capture Their Attention
Large adult dogs are often overlooked for puppies or smaller breed dogs. They patiently wait by their kennel door for someone to pick them. They watch dozens of other dogs find their person and wonder when it will be their turn. Every time they see someone coming they look up with “puppy dog eyes” and wag their tail in anticipation, but then watch as they walk on by. Humane Society of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is hoping the power of social media will help their big dogs find loving homes. The shelter shared a...
Australia Authorizes Helicopter Shooting to Cull 14,000 Feral Horses
In the vast expanse of Australia’s Kosciuszko National Park, a significant environmental management challenge has arisen: the culling of approximately 14,000 feral horses, known as brumbies. This measure, aimed at protecting delicate ecosystems, has sparked intense debate and highlights the complexities of wildlife management and conservation efforts. Photo: Wikimedia Commons / GrahamecWild Horses are known as “Brumbies” in Australia. These subjects are located in the Kosciuszko National Park in NSW, Australia. The Rising...
Pet Goldfish Turn Ecological Predators in Precious Freshwater Great Lakes
The Great Lakes, a cornerstone of North America’s natural heritage, are under a surprising threat: giant goldfish. Initially perceived as harmless pets, these fish have now become a significant ecological concern, disrupting the delicate balance of these freshwater ecosystems. Photo: PexelsInvasive goldfish in the Great Lakes can grow significantly larger than their domesticated counterparts. Unassuming Pets Turn Environmental Predators Goldfish, native to East Asia and many a child’s first pet, are deceptively innocuous in their...
Festive Recipes for Dogs
Including your dog in your seasonal festivities? These healthy and delicious recipes will fill him with comfort and joy any time of the year! Looking for a fun way to thank your dog for the unconditional love she gives you year round? Since most dogs would probably place food at the top of their wish lists, here are three fabulous recipes to try over the holidays or really any time of year. One thing’s for sure — he’ll be licking his lips and asking for more! Instructions Choose organic ingredients wherever possible. Brush...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: Open Arms Challenge, keeping tenants & pets together and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Join us for the final webcast of 2023: Keeping Tenants & Their Pets TogetherJoin us on Thursday, December 21 at 12:00 PM PT / 3:00PM ET for a question and answer session with housing rights expert Dianne Prado of HEART LA. Hear about the three most important things you can ask and do to help a person with a pet who is facing housing insecurity or unable to… Learn More Get your first year of Shelterluv FREEShelterluv is running a Giving Season...
7 Cat Care Tips for National Cat Lovers’ Month (and Every Day)
They say that cats take care of themselves, but pet parents still have plenty of responsibilities when it comes to cat care. These seven tips in honor of National Cat Lovers’ Month will help ensure your cat lives a long, happy, and healthy life. Cats and cat lovers know that every day is unofficially Kitty’s Day, but December is formally National Cat Lovers’ Month! To help you celebrate and keep your cat in the best shape possible for as long as possible, here are some cat care tips with help from the science team at...
