Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day: How to Prepare Your Kids for Losing a Precious Pet
Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day is honored every August 28, when countless pet owners remember and celebrate the beloved pets that are no longer with them. This special day recognizes that while our pets have passed on, they are never forgotten. As veterinarians, we understand that pet loss impacts people of all ages, but it is especially upsetting for children. Many children, for example, have had the family dog in their life since they were born. For other children, the loss of a pet might be their first experience with grief.
Read More
Bad Behavior, Loneliness, Separation Anxiety, Oh My! Is It Time for Doggy Daycare?
According to the Washington Post, there were 26,000 more pet adoptions in the first nine months of the Coronavirus pandemic than the year before, January 6, 2021. Puppies purchased from breeders were also dramatically increased. Rover.com polled 1000 owners and 68% of Generation Z owners, and 42% of millennials plan to hire dog walkers or reserve spots in doggy daycare for their transition back to the workplace.
Read More
Mythbusters, Dog Edition: 8 Things Your Veterinarian Wants You to Know
Myths follow us through life, from the idea that lightning won’t strike twice in the same place to the infamous penny thrown off the Empire State Building being lethal for an unsuspecting pedestrian below. Our dogs are no exception, being the subject of many myths themselves. As veterinarians, we want to correct as many misconceptions as possible so owners can steer clear of falsehoods and let their dogs live their best lives. Following are some of the most common we hear, and the truth behind them.
Read More
Assistance Dog Day: Celebrating These Amazing Dogs and the Vital Roles They Play
Part of International Assistance Dog Week, August 1-7, 2021, Assistance Dog Day celebrates service dogs and their trainers for the vital roles they play in the lives of individuals with physical and emotional support needs.
Read More
National Mutt Day: 5 Reasons to Celebrate Mixed Breed Dogs
National Mutt Day, also known as National Mixed Breed Dog Day, was established in 2005 to celebrate mixed-breed dogs and raise awareness of the high number of them awaiting adoption in shelters across the country. Recognized on July 31 and December 2 every year, National Mutt Day is all about embracing and saving mixed breeds, which represent 80 percent of dogs in shelters.
Read More
The Secret to Dog Training: Why Positive Reinforcement Works But Punishment Doesn't
It’s a hard concept to digest, but it’s been proven time and time again that dogs respond best to positive reinforcement over punishment – so get ready for extra praise, plenty of ear scratches, and a stockpile of treats if your dog needs training or has some behavioral corrections to make. We know that training a dog and, in particular, a puppy can be challenging and even frustrating but, as veterinarians, we also know that yelling and berating versus positive reinforcement is not going to work.
Read More
National Pet Fire Safety Day: Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe
Launched in 2009 by The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services, National Pet Fire Safety Day recognizes the estimated 500,000 pets affected annually by fires in the home. Held annually on July 15, this day is set aside to increase awareness and educate pet owners about fire risks and preventative measures to ensure your pet’s safety.
Read More
The Secret to a Stress-Free Summer Taking Your Dog Around Water
Dog water safety is top of mind for dog owners in the warmer months, as families venture out to lakes and oceans or enjoy time in their own pools. Of course, we all want our dogs to come along for these aquatic adventures. Still, there’s a certain amount of anxiety that comes with summer water activities – especially if you’ll be distracted by young children or a large group of people.
Read More
