Top 7 Tips for Running with Dogs

tips for running with dogsTaking Fido out for a run seems pretty straight-forward. Leash, water, run, done – right? Actually, there are several things to keep in mind for your dog’s safety before you head out together. The best exercise is one that is safe and worry-free, so use our 7 tips for running with dogs to help you both get the most out of your runs.

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The Start and End of the Royal Corgi Dynasty

royal corgiSince 1933, the Royal Family has had their loyal corgis romping around Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth has shared her love of corgis with the world for over 80 years, helping to keep the Pembroke Welsh Corgi name alive for over fourteen generations. Unfortunately, it seems this royal Corgi dynasty may be put to rest once and for all, but what started the tradition to begin with?

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Canine Noise Aversion: When the Sounds of Summer Frighten Your Dog

canine noise aversionLoud noises from fireworks, summer thunderstorms, loud TV sounds and boisterous gatherings can be a source of anxiety for pets, as many dog owners know. Dogs that exhibit signs of fear and more extreme reactions to loud noises have Canine Noise Aversion, classified as a canine phobia or anxiety disorder.

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Pet Estate Planning: How Will Your Pet be Protected?

Pet Estate PlanningOne of the most important aspects of being a pet owner is making sure our animals are always cared for. Our pets are family and as such, we don’t want to worry about something happening to them if we are incapacitated or no longer around. Preparing for the future with pet estate planning is the best way to protect them. Without it, you’re hoping someone will take them in and that your pet doesn’t end up in a shelter. But what does pet estate planning look like and where do you start?

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Dog Food Recalls: How Did a Euthanasia Drug Get into Dog Food?

pet food

A string of dog food recalls made the news because the source of contamination is an unusual one–a drug used to euthanize animals. The question is how did this euthanasia drug make its way into dog food?

More than 100+ million cans of dog food from three U.S. manufacturers were recalled due to the presence of the drug pentobarbital. This barbiturate (sedative) is most commonly used for anesthesia and for euthanasia. Five dogs were reported to have fallen ill due to pentobarbital-contaminated food. One of the dogs, unfortunately, did not survive.

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The Heart of the Matter: Heartworm in Cats Can Happen

heartworm in catsIf you are a dog owner, chances are good that you know about heartworm disease. Chances are also good that you give your dog a monthly heartworm preventive, and that your dog is tested annually to make sure they are heartworm free. However, you may not know that your cat is also at risk.

Although the chances of your cat contracting heartworm is less than it is for your dog, it has been reported that cats in all 50 states are infected with heartworm. In fact, it has also been reported that 10-14% of all shelter cats are infected with heartworm.

As we become more aware of the prevalence of heartworm disease in cats, Oakland Veterinary Referral Services will take the opportunity to discuss the causes, signs, and prevention of heartworm disease in our feline friends.

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The Gift That Keeps On Giving: Pet-Friendly Donations

For many people, giving to those in need is a big part of the holiday season. With such a large number of deserving charities out there, it can be difficult to choose where to contribute your hard-earned dollars.

If you are considering donations to a pet or animal friendly cause this year (it is our fervent hope that everyone is), allow us to suggest a donation to OVRS’ own TEAR Foundation or one of our Michigan-based favorites: Continue…

Growing Old Gracefully: Helping Senior Dogs Enjoy Their Golden Years

senior dogsWhether you’ve been with your senior dog since puppyhood, or adopted a wonderful pet during their adult years, you know by now that older pets have a lot to offer.

Making your senior dog’s golden years as wonderful as possible is your top priority as you and your best pal face this special time hand in paw, and it all starts with understanding the unique needs of an older pet.

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Simplify Your Routine With Our Life Hacks For Dog Owners!

life hacks for dogs ownersWho knew that tea bags absorbed odor from stinky shoes, or that toilet paper tubes work perfectly for organizing electronics cords? “Life hacks” such as these give us cheap, effective ways to stay organized, manage our time, and overall maintain our productivity in a fast paced world.

Dog owners can benefit from useful tips and tricks as much as anybody, which is why we’ve compiled our top 10 favorite life hacks for dog owners. Enjoy!

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