Cats and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
~ by Nomi Berger As the days grow darker and shorter, and the thermometer plummets, so does the mood of millions of people living in the Northern Hemisphere. But humans are not the only ones affected by what scientists refer to as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Our cats – even the happiest, most active and energetic ones — can suffer the same dramatic
Cherry Eye in Dogs
~by Nomi Berger~ The condition commonly called “cherry eye” occurs when a tear gland protrudes from your dog’s eye socket. Easily spotted, it appears as a pink or red mass bulging from the corner of the eye nearest your dog’s nose. It can affect either one or both eyes AND can be recurrent. Located underneath the nictitating membrane (known as the third eyelid) which
ADOPTING CATS WITH FIV
By Nomi Berger A cat diagnosed with the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is still an ADOPTABLE cat. What, then, is FIV? FIV is a type of virus called a retrovirus. It is in the same family as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS in people. It is a slow virus that attacks the immune system over
BLOAT IN COONHOUNDS
Article written by Nomi Berger Coonhounds, like other deep-chested breeds, are at the greatest risk for bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), which is second only to cancer as the main killer of dogs. There are many theories as to why GDV happens, but there are still no clearly defined causes for the condition, which can occur in two stages: the first being gastric
Being Cautious is Cool This Summer
by Nomi Berger Picture yourself on a sweltering summer day wearing a long winter coat. Are you hot yet? Itchy? Thirsty? Looking for shade? Now picture your dogs on that same summer day. And you’ll have some idea of how THEY feel. Protecting them from the hot sun, air and ground is essential to keeping them safe outside. All it requires is common sense
Holiday Health Hazards for Pets
By Nomi Berger Dogs are prone to hazards at any point in their life, within their own genetics. Different breeds suffer with different illnesses in general or in old age, and many owners have to find some info on their pet and what they might need to be prepared for. Some of these conditions are non preventable due to their hereditary nature, however, there
10 Ways To Protect Your Dog This Summer
By Nomi Berger According to the calendar, it’s officially summer! And with the hot days comes hot dogs. Imagine yourself on a sweltering, summer day wearing a full-length fur coat. Are you hot? Itchy? Thirsty? Are you anxiously looking around for shade? Now imagine dogs outside on the same sweltering day. And you’ll have some idea of how THEY feel. Protecting your own dog
Why Spay and Neuter Your Pets?
By Nomi Berger The problem of pet overpopulation is a global one and requires a solution on a global scale. But like every journey that begins with a single step, this particular journey must begin with every pet owner. Those who do their part and act responsibly by spaying and neutering their cherished family pets. Spaying (removing the ovaries and uterus of a
Holiday Hoopla & Health Hazards
With the holidays approaching, it’s time to think not only about celebrating, but also about dog safety. To ensure that the season stays merry and bright, plan ahead and start early (Perhaps we should have suggested this earlier, but perhaps you are a last minute decorator?). Change the appearance of your home from everyday to holiday gradually, over a period of several weeks. This
Sign Up For Our Pet First Aid Course!
You cannot predict when an accident will happen to your pet, but you can most certainly be prepared for it- especially as the cold weather and the holidays are approaching since the number of injuries usually increases at this time of the year. Remember these useful tips when you find yourself in this situation: Roxy is available for adoption. Don’t panic. Staying calm and