As summer approaches, we’re going through our closets pulling out our t-shirts and shorts in preparation for fun in the sun. But what about our four-legged friends stuck in a permanent fur coat? Are they as affected by the midday heat as we are? (Spoiler alert: yes.) And is there anything we can do about it? (Also, yes.) Here’s the good news: beating the heat is as easy as ABC! A. Always Plan Ahead Remember, our companion animals are at our mercy when it comes to being out in the... Read more →

Dog treats should be selected based upon their nutritional merits rather than on cost, flavor or glitzy packaging. When you turn over the package, look at the ingredients. Are you giving your dog sugary snacks? Unnecessary calories? Ingredients that are questionable? If Elvis Dog could talk, he'd want good, healthy treats. We all know what happened to the real Elvis, right? Don't let that happen to your dog. Your pet’s treats should add the healthy components that are known to support hardy immune systems, strong muscles and optimal health. The... Read more →

It’s a common belief that cats are highly susceptible to stress. How many memes have you seen referencing “neurotic kitty”? But the truth is, a cat’s normal state shouldn’t be stressed, she should be happy and relaxed! If our kitties are constantly showing signs of stress and anxiety, we owe it to them to identify solutions to help them feel better. So how do you know if your cat is stressed versus just being naturally feisty? Well, the signs are subtle. Oftentimes, it’s a subtle change in behavior that doesn’t... Read more →

Rio and Thor LOVE these! Best of all, I don't have to worry about their safety. I remember when I was young and our dogs had rawhides. I remember them trying to swallow them and then gurking them back up. I remember stepping on a 1/2 chewed, slimey rawhide in the middle of the night (ewwwww!). You won't get that with Porky Puffs! Packed with high-quality protein, Porky Puffs chewable treats are non-greasy and contain no artificial preservatives or flavors. They contain no artificial colors so you won’t have to... Read more →

Unless you’re truly tuned in with your canine companion, you might be missing the “tail-tell” signs that your puppy’s got stress issues. By learning to recognize the symptoms and gaining a clearer picture of the potential causes, you’ll be well on your way to helping your canine chill out on a regular basis. If that weren’t enough to perk up your ears, Dr. V also drops some helpful tips for alleviating dog stress. Definitely worthy of further investigation! Take a page out of our pet-care book and save this handy... Read more →

In 2012, my husband and I took the kids down to the San Diego waterfront for the annual “Big Bay Boom” Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza. As we staked a spot on the grass, I was surprised to see a couple with an Australian Shepherd puppy. Surely they’re planning on leaving before the fireworks began, I thought to myself. But as the lights dimmed and the crowd hushed, it became clear the dog was staying for the show. Unfortunately for all of us, someone had made a grave mistake. The... Read more →