Please note: Declawing is a painful and invasive procedure. It is an amputation. Botched surgeries are not uncommon. Pain and complications can last for months, if not years—and sometimes for the entire lifetime of the cat. Declawing can create behavioral problems such as timidity, avoidance of owners, hiding and retreating, biting (especially associated with play [...]
If you have a cat who doesn't like to be picked up or held, try these tips. Position yourself next to or slightly behind your cat. Place your outer arm underneath the cat's chest (and belly), and your other hand in front of the cat's chest to control the front legs. Pick up your [...]
There is often confusion in the use of the words feral and stray. It is important to know or be cognizant of the differences, since 'feral cat' is a label that is frequently misused and overused. The label can have dangerous consequences for cats since most shelters will kill ‘feral’ cats or people will assume the [...]
Bauer - rescued. © Tara Beddingfield The holidays are approaching. You may be worried about your canine crew mixing with friends and relatives for festive get-togethers—but a little planning and preparation can make the holidays more enjoyable for all. • Doorway etiquette. Teach your dog polite manners at the doorway. Choose a [...]
Dogs are creatures of habit who learn through association and context. Dogs live in the moment. They are emotional beings who experience joy, confusion, happiness, and fear. Like toddlers, dogs do not understand that your behavior in the present may be related to an incident that happened four hours ago, nor do they understand [...]
When planning to adopt only one dog, cat, or another companion animal, don’t separate a bonded pair—even if one is especially cute or appealing. Look for a singleton. Shelters and rescues routinely separate bonded animals because they are quicker to be adopted, but this can lead to emotional and behavioral fallout—especially for an animal who [...]