Those of us who had pets as children probably remember the unconditional love we received, the pleasures of animal companionship, and the lessons in caring for another creature. Most likely, we gained far more from our pets than we realize even now. Advantages of pets for children Children who grow up with pets tend to […]
As cats and dogs get older, they’re prone to many of the same ailments that people may experience with aging. Unfortunately, instead of helping their companions grow old gracefully, some people replace their aging pets as they would an older car. Shelters are full of even healthy older animals that no one wants. Animals have […]
It might be if you don’t know what to watch out for. Many things found commonly around our homes are deadly to animals. Did you know that grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs? That garlic and onions are toxic to cats? It’s true. Items as simple as chocolate, coffee grounds, and even apple seeds […]
Winter can be a tough time for humans and their animal companions. Pets can experience many of the same ailments and dangers that humans face when the weather turns cold. Unfortunately, pet-owners are not always aware of what they can do to ensure their animals are safe, warm and healthy through the winter months. Two […]
Adult help in selecting pets and guiding children in their care can help build lifelong memories. What kinds of pets are good with children?
Why adopt an adult cat or dog?First, they’re kittens and puppies. They wiggle and totter and fall in love with us as we fall for them. Kittens and puppies remind us what it’s like to start on life’s great adventures, but they require a lot more work than adult cats and dogs do. They make […]
Today’s world is, unfortunately, out of touch with nature in many ways. Pets can be the means for bringing some of the wilder spirit of the natural world into our homes. Children, in particular, often derive a lot of comfort and joy from reconnecting to nature in this way. Though it is unrealistic to expect […]
You’re planning your vacation, or you are going to be traveling with your dogs for other reasons. Should you take your dogs with you? If you take them how do you prepare for travel with your dog? The answers depend on your dog, the traveling type and distance, and the destination.
For decades, we’ve fed our dogs and cats processed food from cans and bags. Pet food manufacturers and veterinarians have assured us that food made especially for cats and dogs is the best for their nutritional needs. In recent years, the raw food movement for dogs and cats has spread across the continent. Is it […]
Itchy, puffy, watery, red eyes. A stuffy or runny nose. Sneezing. A scratchy or sore throat. Itchy skin. Hives. Shortness of breath. Allergic reactions to family pets can develop in childhood or in adulthood, even after years of living with animals. Finding another home for pets is often not an acceptable option. In a 1997 […]