Oakland Veterinary Referral Services Blog

With so many animals needing homes, it can sometimes feel like owning an animal is a right and not a privilege. But, those who take pets into their homes do so with the promise that they will adequately care for the animal. Additionally, there are laws for dog owners, and it is essential to be aware of them. If you are (or are planning to become) a dog owner, be aware of the following safety considerations and laws for dog owners:

Our kitties may be the main characters of our own lives, but feline additions to literary classics are a true treat for any cat lover. If you’re like us, adding a cat to a book or a poem is a great way to garner attention (and adoration). We like to think some of these classics are so popular because of their cat components. Come with us on this literary journey of some of the most famous cats in literature.

Spring is in the air. As the ground begins to thaw and your thoughts turn to Easter preparation, don’t forget to include your pets in the fun. Animals enjoy a nice Easter basket as much as people do. Here are some festive ideas that you can use to create the perfect cat and dog Easter baskets.

Cat coat colors and patterns tell the story of their genetic history. Each spot or stripe is a memory of a cat that lived before. Many biological factors determine how a cat will look, which is why one litter can have such a wide variety of appearances. Keep reading to learn more about cat genetics and how they affect a cat’s coat colors and patterns:

As a Veterinary Cardiologist, I hear this over and over when kitties come to see me for a heart check-up. The problem with cats is that they are sooooo smart that they can hide even the most severe forms of heart disease…until they find themselves in the emergency room. 

Most of us have at least good intentions of being more active in our daily lives. The execution, though, is not always as simple as the desire. Luckily for dog owners everywhere, pups can serve as surprisingly effective personal trainers. Keep reading to see how you can stay active with your dog and enjoy your very own pup-sonal training sessions.

Have you ever spent a lot of money on a toy or bed for your cat just to have them opt for a rubber band or an empty box instead? If you don’t want to break the bank on items for your cat, there are plenty of DIY cat projects you can do. Since cats can be a little…fickle, making something at home can help you save money. With the right supplies and a little bit of creativity, you can create an abundance of feline accessories for any occasion. 

Some dogs are up for anything…until it’s time to get in the car. Dog car anxiety can make it difficult to go to the vet, plan a vacation, or even visit the pet store. Some dogs feel mild discomfort that keeps them from settling down during a car ride (whether it’s long or short). 

Other dogs whine, pant, pace, or cry for the duration of the trip. If your dog is suffering from car anxiety, your friends at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services are here with helpful tips to mitigate this fear:

The older you get, the wiser you get if you learn from life. These white hairs in my doggy whiskers tell stories of the many lessons I’ve learned in my short years here. While I may walk on four legs, I think the dog wisdom I carry can be shared with anyone. 

In the dog days of summer, it is easy to find ways to bond with your dog. From long walks along the beach to hours playing with pals at the park, each day brings a new opportunity for bonding. While bonding activities might not come as easily during the winter, they are still plentiful. Here are four simple ways to increase your bond with your dog this winter: