Autumn is upon us again, and that means winter is around the corner. As New Englanders, we know the weather is predictably unpredictable. Ticks, fleas, and other parasites that seek our pets as dinner hosts thrive during temperature fluctuations. You may have noticed that ticks have been especially ferocious this fall. Every pet parent knows [...]
It’s October and spooky days are ahead. This month should be about scary tales, not frightened tails. Despite spirited fun, we can still keep Fido and Fluffy safe and happy in the coming weeks. Here are some hints to help. Trick-or-treat or tricky treat? Kids love Halloween candy. Unfortunately, Fido does, too. Keep Halloween treats [...]
The local news has been abuzz lately with health hazards that may affect both humans and the creatures that share our lives. Eastern equine encephalitis, commonly called EEE (“Triple-E”) and blue-green algae are two current hot topics. Later this fall, leptospirosis and tick-transmitted infections such as Lyme disease are likely to hit center stage. The [...]
If you’re a cat lover, you’re probably hard-pressed to find anything but purrfection with these furry felines. Cats are cuddly but aloof, sweet but sassy, and independent but funny. That’s right – cats are marvelous pets. Cats even groom themselves. They are generally very clean creatures. Clean, that is, until they decide not to use [...]
If pets grace your home, chances are that they are part of your family. Indeed, we tend to personify pets, often giving them human names and attributing human emotions to them. You may delight in buying your pets gifts, in celebrating their birthdays, or in planning your vacation to include the four-legged family members, too. [...]
If your house is also home to cats or dogs, chances are they are part of your family. People dote on their pets, providing spa sessions, treats, gifts, and social activities. Indeed, Fido and Fluffy are considered furry four-legged family members. Keeping these special family members healthy is important. Providing a regular routine with daily [...]
On July 12, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration alerted veterinarians and other dog-care providers that certain dog foods may be causing canine heart disease. That’s big news. And it’s heart-breaking for pet parents, too. Dog owners often devote considerable time and effort to research various dog foods and select one that they believe is [...]
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. The northeastern United States is rife with the parasites that transmit this disease, and our neighborhoods are in the bull’s eye for infection. Lyme disease is caused by the bite of an infected tick. In case you haven’t noticed, ticks are thriving and plentiful now. Although we have several [...]
We can finally say it – spring has sprung. The snow has melted, leaves are popping, and the world around us is coming to life. It’s great to spend time outdoors now. Fido and Fluffy may be yearning to join you. Before opening the door wide, though, ask yourself if you have prepared your pet [...]
If Fido or Fluffy is part of your family, the topic of spay or neuter has probably come up. To many pet parents, these procedures are as routine as puppy or kitten vaccines. Surprisingly, though, pet owners are often unaware of what spaying or neutering entails, and the special considerations for their own little Fido [...]
