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July 28, 2021

Dogs Find Cicadas Irresistible, Should They Eat Them?
The largest brood of 17-year cicadas has recently emerged above ground in parts of the US in staggering numbers. Birds, raccoons, foxes and toads enjoy snacking on these large insects with hook-like wings and legs, but should you let your dog feast on them, too?

Kitten Turns Guy Into a Cat Person
This tiny, week-old kitten was rescued by a guy who wasn't the biggest cat fan - at first.

July 27, 2021

Would Your Cat Sit in an Imaginary Box?
It's no secret cats love to explore and squeeze themselves into boxes, but what about an imaginary box? Find out what the cats in this study did when offered a choice between a 2D square and a square-like illusion.

Protective Corgi Is Everybody's Mama
A very protective Corgi looks after all the orphaned babies on this 40-acre rescue farm.

July 26, 2021

Do You Make This Mistake When You Walk Your Dog?
Many owners do and it's often because your agenda may be different from your pet's. As important to him as your sight is to you, you rob your dog of the information he needs to figure out what's happening in his world when you ignore this scientific wonder.

This Fruit Fuels Healthy Cells and Brain Power
The perfect summertime snack, this juicy fruit symbolizes immortality in Daoist mythology. Not surprisingly, it's an excellent source of bioactive compounds that may help protect your pet against chronic diseases, including tumors and heart disease.

July 25, 2021

The Difference Between Marijuana and CBD Oil for Pets
It's the THC in cannabis that can poison your dog, so how can you know which products are okay to use for or around your pet? Just because certain cannabidiol (CBD) oils may be harmless for dogs and cats doesn't mean other products won't trigger a frightening reaction.

Guy Pets a Cute Highland Calf, and Here Comes Mom!
A cute Highland calf wanted this guy to pet him, then the Highland mom showed up!

July 24, 2021

Game Changer Nominee: Transforming Modalities
Today's Healthy Pets Game Changer award goes to Dr. Becca Klobuchar, whose quest for knowledge and transformative experience makes it possible for her to provide more than conventional veterinary care to her clients.

Nothing's Better Than Coming Home to Your Dog
Coming home is the best part of your day. That your dog thinks so, too, makes it better!

July 23, 2021

Life With a 'Velcro' Dog — What You Need to Know
Does your dog follow you from room to room, and not let you out of his sight? Frequently a learned behavior, clinginess can be lovable, but it can also be problematic and become a serious issue. Here's how to encourage independence and build confidence in your Velcro pup.

Three Cats Chirp at Elusive Birds Outside!
Fixated on some birds outside the window, three cats literally stutter with fascination!

July 22, 2021

The No. 1 Way to Avoid a Pet Emergency
Pet emergencies can be costly and stressful for you and your pet. But did you know that you can take steps, such as making a reasonable investment now, to help avoid sky-high emergency care bills later? Create your six-step emergency plan before the unexpected strikes.

'Jump Day' Is the Main Event for Wood Ducklings
Ducklings have to be able to climb and jump just hours after they're hatched.

July 21, 2021

Why Grapes Can Be Deadly to Dogs
Theories abound as to why some dogs become seriously ill after eating even a small amount of grapes, raisins or currants. Is it pesticides or something in the grapes? This group of four veterinarians may have solved the mystery after an unfortunate incident with homemade playdough.

Wild Ram Shows a Tetherball Who's Boss!
When wild rams found a tetherball in their path, the male decided to teach it a lesson!

July 20, 2021

'Why Does My Cat Scoot?'
While it's much more common to see a dog drag his backside across the floor, kitties will occasionally scoot, too. With cats, however, it's not normal behavior. Know the four reasons why a cat may scoot - all of which indicate a necessary visit to the veterinarian.

Norwegian Forest Cat Enjoying His Bathtub Time
A Norwegian forest cat is fascinated by the water rippling in the family bathtub.

July 19, 2021

5 Factors That Contribute to Aggression in Dogs
Normal canine communication such as growling and biting can quickly escalate in some dogs, creating a threat to both people and other animals. Understanding the factors underlying aggressive behavior can go a long way toward helping your pet cope.

Healthier Than Many Treats, a Nutrient Win for Your Pet
One of the most nutritionally concentrated, pet-friendly vegetables, these colorful gems are rich in beta-carotene, an important nutrient for boosting immune and eye health, especially in older pets. Here are five ways to feed them to your dog or cat.

July 18, 2021

Can You Hear Your Dog Laughing?
For real, dogs laugh during play, and so do at least 65 other animal and bird species. Can you recognize the sounds of canine laughter? Listen closely to Cowboy and Chloe, but if you can't hear your own dog laugh, know the 10 other signs of a happy dog.

Scared Pittie Wouldn't Leave the Plum Box He Was Found In
A scared pup wouldn't leave the plum box he was found in, and Plum became his name!

July 17, 2021

Blending Technology With Compassion to Save Feral Kittens
Our newest Game Changer, Shelly Roche, would watch with dismay at how amazing cats who were shy or had special needs would be overlooked at her local animal shelter because of the stressful setting. Now she's discovered an engaging way to 'rescue the unrescuable' and find them homes.

Federally Protected Ravens Are Teachable and Talented
Ravens seem to be a somewhat misunderstood bird species, but Mischief changes that!

July 16, 2021

The Dogs Most Likely to Gaze Into Your Eyes
There are four traits that influence a dog's ability to make and maintain eye contact with humans. And surprisingly, one of the biggest factors may be the length of your dog's nose. Could that be because short- and long-nosed dogs see the world differently?

Maine Coon Kitty: First Time at the Lake
This kitty is mesmerized by the warm, gentle ripples of the lake as she cautiously wades in.

July 15, 2021

Hero Rat Retires From Service With Gold Medal
Retiring from his distinguished multi-year career, Magawa has earned the highest recognition for his service sniffing out underground landmines and unexploded ordnance. African giant pouched rats are not only helping clear out land in Cambodia, they're also learning to detect human disease.

Dog Too Scared to Make Eye Contact Finally Connects
Sweet but very scared, Walt turned into a joyful pup when he was adopted.

July 14, 2021

5 Ways to Keep Your Dog's Mind Engaged
Bored dogs are often unhealthy and unhappy. With not enough mental stimulation, your dog may spend too much time lazing around and sleeping, leading to obesity, depression and, potentially, behavioral issues. Here's how to add interest to his life and help him feel like part of your pack.

Doberman and Bengal Kitty Share Cuddle Time
You can tell the Doberman appreciates the quiet ministrations of her favorite feline!

July 13, 2021

This Common Type of Food Is Dangerous for Your Pet
Fish has become a popular ingredient in pet food, but most varieties are too risky to feed to your dog or cat because of contamination with toxic mercury, PCBs, dioxins, pesticides and a carcinogenic preservative, as well as the potential for allergies. If you want to feed fish, choose these two types.

How to Get Your Cat to Play Your Keyboard
There's nothing like a moving red dot to turn your cat into an impromptu composer!

July 12, 2021

Avoid This Mistake if You Find a Lump on Your Pet
Sebaceous cysts are fluid-filled sacks that occur under your pet's skin. These lumps can suddenly erupt anywhere on your pet, and some dogs are especially prone to them. Know how to tell them apart from other lumps and bumps, what never to do with them and how to reduce their formation.

This Antioxidant-Rich Fruit Helps Guard Cells and Organs
An unlikely source of nutrition for dogs and cats, this popular fruit does your pet's body good, just as it does yours. From its array of powerful protective phenolics and carotenoids to support eyesight and immunity to its phytosterols for healthy cholesterol levels, it has much to offer your pet.

July 11, 2021

Recalls Continue for Popular Pet Foods
Despite the FDA's focus on - and vilification of - raw pet food, ultraprocessed foods continue to be the most recalled products for potential salmonella contamination. Here's what you need to know about the true risks for you and your pet for salmonella poisoning.

Hilarious Dog Moments Captured on Video
Funny home videos exist for the awkward moments of our dogs' lives, too!

July 10, 2021

Study Shows Rabies Vaccine Is Effective for at Least 5 Years
The 5-year Rabies Challenge Fund milestone has been achieved, and Dr. Jean Dodds, a developer of the challenge is here to discuss its findings, vaccines in general, and the practice of veterinary medicine in 2021.

Cat Loves the Hand-Held Massager
This cat knows the drill: When the massager is turned on, he always decides to get one!

July 9, 2021

Dogs Detect COVID-19 in Humans With 97% Accuracy
In this part of the world, dogs are being deployed to detect COVID non-invasively in a fraction of a second. With their stunning accuracy exceeding that of nasal COVID tests - 97% sensitivity in identifying positive samples and 91% in identifying negatives - will canine testing replace PCR tests?

Golden Retriever Reacts to Rescue Sirens
A dog reacted with mournful howls when several rescue vehicles sped by his house.

July 8, 2021

The Devastating Effects of Urban Life on Coyotes
Sightings of coyotes in urban areas are on the rise and they're increasingly foraging discarded scraps of human food to survive. And that's having ill effects on their health and behavior, including their ability to hunt natural prey, setting up a vicious no-win cycle.

Little Rescued Calf Is the Same Size as the Dog
He was the littlest calf at the auction, but later Bucket weighed more than 900 pounds!

July 7, 2021

Surprising Reasons Why Your Dog Follows You Around
Your dog's entire world revolves around you, and assuming you share a good bond, being around you makes your dog feel good. But is it normal for him to follow you from room to room? Know how to tell separation anxiety from normal attachment behavior that occurs for several different reasons.

Little Kitten Trying to Stay Awake
While his furry siblings play in the background, a little kitten is falling asleep sitting up!

July 6, 2021

The All-American 'Gentle Giant' — Playful, Loyal and Social
The largest domestic feline breed, these long-haired beauties can weigh up to 18 pounds and come in 75 different color combinations. Potentially mistaken for a wild cat, they can be walked on a leash, enjoy human interaction and get along well with children and other pets.

Cockatiel’s First Drum Lesson
This rhythmic little cockatiel is getting his first drum lesson and does very well at it!

July 5, 2021

How to Choose Toys Your Dog Will Love
Healthy dogs of all ages love to play with toys, including everything from squeaky toys to Frisbees. Why do some toys attract dogs' attention more than others, and what should you consider when shopping for your pet? Know which toys to avoid and the ones dogs love best.

Pets Love Cheese, yet Not All Cheese Is Pet-Friendly
Choose carefully when treating your dog or cat to this much-loved treat. While cheese can supply valuable calcium, protein, fatty acids and a longevity-promoting substance called spermidine, certain popular varieties may contain a substance produced by a fungus that can be harmful to pets.

July 4, 2021

Tips for Surviving the July 4th Holiday With Your Pet
It's the 4th of July and by tomorrow, many pets will turn up miles from home, lost, scared and dehydrated. Or worse, hit by a car or stolen by a stranger. Take steps now to help prevent yours from becoming one of them.

Miles, the Screaming Pug Rocket!
Miles is great as the Screaming Pug Rocket, but he's that way even when it isn't July 4th!

July 3, 2021

Merging Human Physical Therapy With Animal Rescue
Our newest Game Changer Award nominee, Tammy Brzezniak, is taking a unique approach that's helping her patients and homeless pets. By matching animals in need of a home with her often-elderly patients in need of companionship, she's providing immeasurable benefits for both.

Mom Secretly Adopts the Dog Her Kids Wanted to Save
Two sisters read about a dog threatened to be euthanized, but their mom had a plan.

July 2, 2021

One of the Best Barometers of Your Dog's Health
Surprisingly, your dog's poop provides one of the best windows into his overall well-being and, best of all, you can monitor it daily. Know what's normal, depending on what your dog eats, and the signs to watch for that may indicate a visit to the veterinarian.

Mama Cat Adopts a Kitten That Wasn't Her Own
A scared mama cat finally warmed up to her rescuers and even took in a stray kitten.

July 1, 2021

The Often-Neglected Care Exotic Pets Need
Unlike many dog and cat owners, exotic pet owners tend to neglect regular check-ups and visit the veterinarian only when there's an obvious problem. Find out how to locate an integrative exotic vet who knows what to look for and can guide you on the right path to care for your pet.

Not-So-Innocent Crow Teasing a Dog
Crows sometimes show their ornery nature, and this time one tries messing with a dog!