Catahoula Australian Shepherd Mix: Info, Pictures, Care Guide & More
Click Below to Skip Ahead The Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix, also called the Ausahoula, is a cross between the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the Australian Shepherd. This breed is a new cross with unclear origins. However, despite the exotic-sounding name, they are all-American canines, with both parent breeds originating in the United States. Their histories add to the mystique of the Catahoula Australian Shepherd mix. Breed Overview Height: 18–24 inches Weight: 40–95 pounds Lifespan: 10–14 years Colors: Black, blue, red,...
Akbash Pyrenees (Akbash & Great Pyreness Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More
Click Below to Skip Ahead The Akbash Pyrenees is a mixed breed of the Akbash and Great Pyrenees. They’re a relatively new breed, and since they’re fairly uncommon, there’s still much to learn about them. What we do know so far is that these dogs are giants that can easily surpass 100 pounds when fully grown. Despite their large size, they’re quite calm and gentle, and they become extremely loyal to their families. When paired with the right family, they can become some of the most devoted companion dogs that anyone...
Wildfire Smoke — How to Protect Your Dog or Cat
Wildfires are getting larger, fiercer and more frequent, which means poor air quality from smoke is becoming a common and widespread problem. Here’s how to protect your dog or cat’s health from its effects. Over the last several years, the wildfire season has become unprecedented in many regions of the world, including the US, Canada, and Europe. Around the globe, in fact, wildfires are growing ever more severe, intense and frequent. Even if you don’t live in or near an affected area, smoke and particulates spread through...
7 Common Household Items Toxic to Cats
Alliums, cleaning products, and low quality essential oils are just a few of the common household items that can make your kitty sick. Cats are known for their curiosity. While this is an endearing trait, it can sometimes get them into trouble. Making sure your kitty stays safe includes keeping her from getting into things that could make her sick. This article highlights seven common household items that are toxic to cats. Check the list to see how many are in your own home, and take steps to prevent your feline friend from coming into...
How to Choose a Dog Bed: 13 Tips for a Comfy Pup
Getting the right bed for your pet is a big deal, and we’re certain you can relate. It can make the difference between tossing and turning versus a restful night’s sleep. Dogs also want a comfy place to lie down, which is one reason they circle before settling in for a snooze. Besides, canines sleep a lot longer than we do, at 10 to 12 hours daily. So, a comfy bed is a must-have. Our pets have come a long way from tramping down the grass to making a good place to rest. They have it pretty darn good with the many bed choices to...
What States Allow Online Vet Prescriptions? Update for 2024
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead The online world has expanded so much that people can skip going to the office, the grocery store, or even the doctor’s office, respectively choosing to do work, buy food, and seek medical advice online instead. This convenience has even spread into veterinary medicine, with vet telehealth becoming quite popular among pet owners. While it may seem like a real luxury to be able to have your...
How to Get Vet Prescriptions Online: Our Vet Explains the 5 Steps & FAQ
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead There’s nothing easier than pulling out your phone, clicking a few buttons to order something, and having it show up on your doorstep within a couple of days. Nearly every retail company out there is offering this service, including pet pharmacies. So, rather than trying to squeeze a visit to the vet clinic into their already busy day, many pet owners are opting for (or hoping to!) getting...
How to Remove Hard Poop From Dog Anus? Our Vet Explains the 4 Tips to Help
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead If you’ve got a long-haired dog, you might have experienced the joy of “dingleberries,” those little pieces of poop hanging from the hair around your dog’s butt. You know they’re not healthy, so what can you do for your dog with hard poop on their anus? Why Is It Important to Make Sure Your Dog’s Rear End Is Clean? First, it’s unhygienic for your dog to...
Pennsylvania Mini-Golf Course Stunned by Groundhog in Claw Machine
In a strange twist of fate, a groundhog found itself trapped in a claw machine at Meadows Family Fun Mini Golf in Duncansville, Pennsylvania. This peculiar incident has captivated the community and raised smiles across the nation. Photo: PexelsA groundhog was found in a claw machine at a Pennsylvania mini-golf course. An Unexpected Discovery Employees at the mini-golf course in Blair County couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw a live groundhog nestled among the stuffed animals in the claw machine. The discovery prompted an...
Not Enough Adoptions or Not Enough Adopters?
[embedded content] Why do so many potential adopters visit a shelter but leave without a pet? Turns out the shelters themselves may have more of a role that you think. Amanda Foster, Assistant Director of Research & Data as well as Heidi Martson, PetSmart Charities Director of Pet Placement Initiatives discuss how five different shelters began implementing people-centric best practices to better understand the WHY behind their adoption conversion rate, and provide you with the tangible tools and initiatives organizations can use today to...
Budget Calculator: Build a Budget Supported by Municipalities & Community Support
[embedded content] Never enough budget: an all-too common problem in animal welfare. HASS wants to showcase a new budget calculator tool created to garner more municipal funding, community support and address the chronic underfunding shelters unfortunately face daily. This webinar, led by APA! President & CEO, Ellen Jefferson, and Senior Director of Research & Development, Maggie Lynch, cover how to use the HASS Budget Calculator and its results to advocate for budgets appropriate to meet the public’s expectations around humane...
Top Reasons to Feed Your Dog Novel Proteins
Gone are the days when dogs only had chicken or beef for every meal. These days, dog parents can opt for a variety of novel proteins. Here are the top reasons to choose them. Novel proteins are becoming more common in dog food recipes, and for good reason. Along with being great for dogs with allergies and sensitivities, they’re also better for the planet and ensure dogs get all the nutrients they need to be the happy, healthy goofballs we love. Here are some reasons to help guide you when considering adding novel proteins to your...
Corporate Takeovers Are Putting Pets’ Lives at Risk, and Here’s How
The veterinary industry has seen a dramatic shift as private equity firms have increasingly taken ownership of pet care companies and veterinary clinics across the United States. This trend, initially driven by the industry’s stability and profitability, has sparked a growing debate about the impact on both pet owners and veterinary professionals. As more veterinary practices come under corporate control, concerns are rising about the implications for care quality, cost, and the future of independent veterinary practices. Photo:...
Hot Tips For Staying Cool With Kodah & Friends
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. Every summer, thousands of dogs are seen at veterinary practices suffering from heat stroke, and strangely, I see more cases in the UK than I ever did in Australia. Why? It’s about humidity. We tend to be much more aware of the dangers of hot weather when the mercury soars,...
Cats Show Heartbreaking Signs of Grief After Losing Their Animal Companions, Study Finds
Cats have long been stereotyped as aloof and independent, often seen as indifferent to the emotional currents in their homes. However, new research from Oakland University reveals that cats can grieve the loss of a companion animal, whether another cat or even a dog. This discovery sheds light on the emotional lives of our feline friends, suggesting that grief might be more universal in the animal kingdom than previously thought. Photo: PexelsCats show changes in behavior after a companion dies. Cats and the Emotional Bond Research led by...
Victory for Animal Rights as Massachusetts Bans Exotic Animals in Circuses
Massachusetts has taken a significant step in animal welfare. The state House and Senate have passed a bill prohibiting the use of elephants, big cats, and other exotic animals in circuses and traveling shows. This legislative move marks the culmination of a prolonged campaign by animal rights activists who have argued against the cruelty inflicted on these animals. The bill, which emerged amid a series of animal-centric proposals, passed unanimously. If Governor Maura Healey signs it into law, Massachusetts will become the eleventh state to...
Skittish Cat and Woman Befriend Each Other After Their Mutual Cat Friend Dies
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! It was a routine checkup for my tabby, Otto. I was chatting with the vet and asking questions about how to introduce Otto to a new kitten. The doctor stopped and looked at me. “Are you thinking of adopting? Because we found a feral kitten outside our clinic, and she needs a home.” PHOTO: PIXABAY / GIOELE FAZZERI So that day, a frightened scrawny black kitten came home with us....
Cat Comes Through Living Room Window and Moves in Permanently
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! Bo came into our lives through the living room window in February 2012. We had all just learned the term “polar vortex” and were in the middle of one when our two cats began reacting to another cat outside the living room window. PHOTO: PIXABAY / FABIO We live in the woods so wildlife is plentiful, but I had no chance to even see much less catch the other cat. I began leaving...
Olympian Gabby Thomas’ Rescue Pug Is “Fastest Pug In The Country”
Team USA continues to earn medals at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. The athletes are pushing themselves to the limit as fans cheer them on. However, their biggest fans are their beloved pets who are both an inspiration and stress reliever. Olympian Gabby Thomas won the gold medal in the woman’s 200m race with a time of 21.83 seconds, thanks in part to her rescue pug cheerleader. In addition to her dedication and intense workouts she has a loyal pal who is always by her side. In a video posted by NBCUniversal Local’s Clear the...
Can Dogs Eat Vienna Sausages? Nutrition Facts & FAQ (Vet Answer)
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead Even if you aren’t sure what to do with them, Vienna sausages are a sensible canned pantry staple for almost anyone. Savvy home cooks know these tasty, versatile morsels can help out anywhere, bringing fun and flavor to breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and all the appetizers in between. Vienna sausages should stay on our plates and be kept out of dog’s bowls. Though they may get away with...