One could spend all day, or more, engaging in (sometimes heated) dialogue about what our pets should eat. Depending on your personal beliefs, education, and experience, your perspective could be vastly different from another pet owner. Even within the veterinary community, there are a wide range of recommendations as to what is the most appropriate style of feeding for our companion canines and felines.

Does your dog practically do cartwheels when you pick up the leash? If so, you may have taught them well to be excited about fitness! January is National Walk Your Pet Month, and while there have been movements to have “leash-free” communities, there are good reasons to keep your pet leashed in public places, no matter how well-behaved your dog is.

Does your dog love their visits to the veterinarian? We sure hope so! However, it’s important as a pet owner to remember that not all of the pets at the hospital share the same experience when visiting the vet. The hospital lobby is generally quite a busy and sometimes noisy place.

August 10th is Spoil Your Dog Day, and while it might sound like a great opportunity to lavish your furry best friend with delicious treats, that might not be the healthiest thing for your dog. Dogs should not consume an excessive amount of calories from treats, and they should generally not have “human treats,” either.

Many of us know of someone who has been bitten by a neighborhood dog. Often, those involved will say that nobody saw it coming. The dog had seemed friendly in prior circumstances, and the bite victim might have even had great interactions with the dog before. Yet this dog still turned and bit...hard.

Moving can be a stressful experience for you and your family, so don’t forget it can also be a stressful time for your pet. Pets can get used to a routine and what’s familiar. They also sense when their family is stressed and can pick up on your feelings. Therefore, it's vital to stay in tune with your dog or cat's demeanor and behavior during your packing, moving, and unpacking process.

National Hug Your Pet Day is April 10th, and while many dogs and some cats do seem to reciprocate the joy and affection a good snuggle is meant to communicate, as you may already know, not all pets like to be hugged.

Working on a resolution or two for a happier, healthier new year? Consider including some for your pet!

Setting and conquering goals together is a great way to bond with your pet and pick up some mutually beneficial habits. Need some inspiration to get started? Here are seven New Year’s resolutions for you and your pet.