Introducing a new dog into a pet-filled home can be an overwhelming experience for the pet owner, the new dog, and the current pets – leaving all involved feeling anxious. As veterinarians, we understand that your dog’s emotional health is just as important as their physical health. Following are some proven tips for introducing your new dog into your pet-filled home, and lessening the emotional distress that comes along with it.

It’s human instinct to protect our most valued possessions. We lock our homes when we’re away, set our car alarms at the shopping mall, keep our wallets secure and our kids glued to our sides. As veterinarians, we know that dogs are among an owner’s most valued possessions (nay, family members!), and they’re fiercely protective of them when it comes to the neighbor’s aggressive dog or lurking predatory animals. However, dog owners often fail to realize that their fellow humans are also a threat.

You’re taking the dog out on a hike, and he suddenly veers off the path to explore something that caught his eye—now, you and your precious pup are face to face with a rattlesnake. It’s a scary circumstance to find yourself in, but one that does indeed happen and one that dog owners don’t often think about. Dogs are curious (and, let’s face it, a bit goofy) creatures! Snakes pose a serious threat to your dog, especially during Spring when warmer weather arrives, and snakes seek out the sun for warmth after a long, cold winter.

Everyone knows Mother’s Day is approaching but did you know there’s a lesser-known holiday that's pawsitively worth celebrating. This Saturday, May 8th, is National Dog Mom’s Day and, while Mother’s Day is known for macaroni art, breakfast in bed, and having other things (hopefully!) done for you, this holiday might have you wondering what you can do for your pup. As veterinarians, we’d like to suggest that you celebrate National Dog Mom’s Day by doing all that you can to give your hound the healthiest and highest quality life possible.