Finish your snack before reading this column. And take a deep cleansing breath. Maybe even two. We’re going to talk about anal glands. These small glands are one of the main reasons for “scooting,” that scourge of carpet owners everywhere. The fact is, dogs and cats scoot on their rears in an effort to solve
[continue reading...]

Animal claws (nails) are made of a tough protein called keratin. Claws help animals and birds catch prey, dig holes, andclimb or perch in trees, and are also used for defense. But injury or neglect of pets’ nails can lead to problems. When nails grow too long, they can push the toes into abnormal positions
[continue reading...]

Allergies are states of hypersensitivity, where the body’s immune system overreacts to an otherwise harmless substance. They can be set off by insect bites, pollen, mold spores, mites, fabric, food and much more. Just as with people, allergies can wreak havoc on your pet’s skin, health and happy disposition. Fleas are a common cause. Their
[continue reading...]

You may have put the rest of your affairs in order, but have you made plans for your pets? Hopefully, by now you have created a basic estate plan by doing the following: Signing Durable Powers of Attorney to make sure that someone you trust will be able to handle your finances, and/or make medical
[continue reading...]

A few years ago I was facing a major surgery and it brought to the forefront this question: “Who will care for our beloved pets should something catastrophic occur and I am not able to?” I checked with friends and family to find out who was willing or able to care for which animals. Then
[continue reading...]