Foods that support digestive health in dogs and cats
Support your dog or cat’s digestive health — and soothe her tummy troubles — with bone broth, pumpkin, oats and other healing foods. In fact, dogs and cats can experience many gastrointestinal problems. Symptoms may be subtle, developing over time. Or they can come on suddenly. It’s important to know what to look for and take steps to figure out what’s wrong. This article focuses on some of the foods that support digestive health in dogs and cats. Signs of a GI problem Symptoms of digestive...
How to create a holistic first aid kit for dogs and cats
Be prepared for emergencies – and give yourself peace of mind – by assembling a holistic first aid kit for your dog or cat. Caring for a dog or cat means being prepared for emergencies. Having a first aid kit for your animal companion is just as important as having one for your human family. This article teaches you how to create a holistic first aid kit for dogs and cats using natural products and remedies. Why have a first aid kit for your animal? Remember, a first aid kit can’t replace veterinary care. If your...
The Aging Process in Canines and How to Counter it Naturally
The aging process in dogs is a complex journey that mirrors many aspects of human aging, albeit at a much quicker pace. Understanding how this process unfolds and discovering natural ways to counteract its effects can greatly enhance the quality of life for our beloved companions. The Aging Process in Dogs Dogs age differently based on their breed and size. Generally, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger ones. For instance, small dogs may live up to 15 years or more, while giant breeds like Great Danes typically average around 8 to...
What Is It With Chihuahuas and Burrowing? Dr. Karyn’s Experience With Ned & Fred
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred. One thing I try to avoid in veterinary work is stereotyping dogs. Although breed and genetics can, and do, influence temperament, it is far from the only factor, and you cannot predict canine behavior based on breed alone. However… Since Chihuahuas entered my life I have become...
Pros and cons of dogs in the workplace
Take a look at both the pros and cons of bringing your dog to work with you. Up until the last century or so, most dogs were bred and trained for specific jobs, such as hunting, herding, or guarding. When people took their dogs to work, it was out to the farmyard, or the forests and fields. Dogs received a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation while performing their tasks alongside their human handlers. Nowadays, people still take their dogs to work – but the setting is more likely to be an office rather than...
Why Do Dogs Shake Off?
Dogs shake off after being wet, but why do they do it when dry? Our dogs are smarter than we think. They often shake off after they wake up from sleep or just after stretching. This “dry” shake-off mobilizes the spine after a period of rest. The rapid rotational movement also stimulates the joint capsules. This causes them to produce synovial fluid that lubricates their joints. If your dog stops shaking off, you should be concerned. If he sustains an acute injury to one or more joints, he may suddenly stop shaking. Senior...
Respiratory Health in Brachycephalic Dogs
Brachycephalic dogs have flat faces and compact bodies. Respiratory issues in brachycephalic dogs are relatively common. These breeds often suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition that can severely affect their quality of life. Understanding how to minimize respiratory issues in these dogs is essential for ensuring their health and happiness. Understanding Brachycephalic Breeds Brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs, have unique anatomical features that predispose them to...
What is one goal you have for 2025?
As Maddie’s Fund®‘s 30th anniversary celebration continues, we’re taking a moment this January to share our 2025 goals. This month on Maddie’s® Pet Forum, we’re curious about your 2025 goals. What is one goal you have? Is it a skill you’d like to develop, a program your organization is planning, or a new way to keep pets and people together, we’d love to hear about it! What’s more, is Maddie’s Fund and Cuddly have partnered to provide $1,000 in prizes monthly, for engaging on a...
Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (Jan 16, 2025)
Click to Skip Ahead This Week’s Winner Name: Andie Breed: Red Heeler Fun Fact: I got Andie from a Rescue Farm, in Oklahoma. Had no idea what breed she was, but learned over time she was ‘special’, being half Australian Herd dog and half Dingo. She is at my side always, likes rides in the car and requires exercise. Cutest Name: Emmy Breed: Yorkie Most Expressive Name: Trip Breed: Jack Russel Terrier Fun Fact: Trip loves going for rides and taking trips with me! Especially to go pickup the kids; he loves the kids! Sleepiest...
Do Mother Dogs Miss Their Puppies? Our Vet Explains
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead Nothing warms the heart quite like seeing a mother dog snuggling up with her adorable litter of puppies, but we know that this will eventually have to end. Once puppies are weaned, strong, and independent, it’s usually time for them to say goodbye to their mother and siblings and join an eagerly awaiting family. If we think about this from a human perspective, having our babies taken away...
Best diet for cats with kidney disease
Most senior cats develop kidney disease. Early diagnosis and a kidney-friendly diet can help slow its progression and keep your cat feeling healthy and happy. If you are lucky enough to have a senior cat, you will likely face a diagnosis of kidney disease as he ages. This article explains what the diagnosis requires in terms of nutrition, and what to consider when selecting the best diet for cats with kidney disease. Diets for feline kidney disease – key considerations Protein – restrict it or not? Studies show that...
Fish oil benefits for dogs and cats
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oils offer a range of benefits for your dog or cat’s skin, joints, brain, heart, and overall health. You’ve probably heard about the health benefits of fish oils. They’re not just good for humans, but also our dogs and cats. In fact, holistic and integrative veterinarians often recommend fish oil supplements for animals. Learn about fish oil benefits for dogs and cats, and what to look for when choosing a supplement. What makes fish oils so good for dogs and cats? Fish oils are rich in...
Milk Thistle for Liver Health in Dogs
Milk thistle, a time-honored herbal remedy, is gaining recognition for its significant role in supporting liver health in dogs. As guardians of our canine companions, understanding how this potent herb can bolster their well-being is crucial, especially given the increasing prevalence of liver-related issues among dogs. The Liver: A Vital Organ Under Siege The liver is a powerhouse organ responsible for many essential functions, including detoxification, digestion, and hormone regulation. Unfortunately, the modern environment exposes dogs to...
Rural Dogs, City Living: An Unexpected Adventure With Rosa & Mac
Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Nicole and her two rescue dogs, Mac and Rosa. While many people appreciate the conveniences and luxuries of urban living, there is something uniquely fulfilling about living rurally. While there may be fewer organized activities and no delivery food options, the peace of nature, wide-open spaces, and the freedom to roam are hard to beat. Add to that the self-reliance that rural life fosters, and it becomes clear how...
6 Best Dog Boots in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks
Our furry friends have tough feet, but sometimes they need some help. Dog boots can be an attractive way to protect our dogs’ feet from heat, cold, damp, and rough terrain. Some owners worry about keeping their dog safe from cuts and burns, while others want to ensure their dog is happy and warm no matter the weather. Dog boots come in all styles, from thick-soled shoes to light booties to match any need. These reviews will help you determine what kind of boot is best for you. Click to Skip Ahead A Quick Comparison of Top Picks in 2025...
How to Help Your Dog Avoid Dry, Itchy Skin in the Winter: 10 Vet-Verified Tips
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » If your dog has a skin condition, you’re not alone. According to Nationwide Pet Insurance, these issues are three of the top 10 reasons caregivers file claims. Winter in the Northern Hemisphere is a common culprit of dry, itchy skin, as low temperatures and humidity levels create the perfect storm for skin problems. Luckily, many of our tips will also improve those problems. Acting promptly is essential, though,...
Mama Dog Shot 4 Times While Protecting Her Newborn Puppies – A Story of Love, Resilience & Survival
Click to Skip Ahead On January 6, Streetdog Foundation received an urgent call from a local emergency vet clinic about a mama dog in desperate need. The German Shepherd mix, now named Epiphany, had been shot four times while protecting her 11 newborn puppies. Despite her grave injuries—including bullets lodged in her arm, elbow, and spine, and one that passed entirely through her body cavity—she remained focused on her tiny pups, who were less than 24 hours old. Police reported receiving a call about an injured animal in Southwest...
Laser therapy for pet joint pain and inflammation
Laser therapy for dogs and cats provides a non-invasive treatment. It helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, speed healing, and more. Laser therapy isn’t just for people. It’s also a non-invasive treatment method for many conditions – especially painful ones — in our dogs and cats. Laser therapy is painless and has no side effects. Veterinarians can perform it on animals of any age. Let’s take a look at laser therapy for pet joint pain and inflammation, and how it might help your dog or cat. How...
Inflammatory bowel disease in dogs – a common health problem
IBD in dogs has several causes, including processed foods and pesticides. See how an integrative approach to treatment helps resolve this condition. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs is increasingly common. Chronic inflammation in the small intestine is the hallmark, but the stomach (gastritis) or colon (colitis) may also show inflammation and symptoms. Take an in-depth look at the causes and symptoms of IBD, and how it can be treated — even resolved — with an integrative medicine approach. Symptoms are many and...
Chromotherapy: Transforming Feline Behavior Through Color
In the quest to enhance the well-being of our beloved cats, innovative approach like chromotherapy—or color therapy—can prove to be an effective technique. This fascinating method harnesses the vibrational frequencies of colors to influence emotional and physical health. As cat guardians, understanding how color can affect our feline companions opens up a new realm of possibilities for improving their behavior and overall happiness. Understanding Chromotherapy Chromotherapy is based on the principle that different colors emit...
