While fleas are an especially common problem for dogs and cats during the summer months, pet owners generally have to battle parasites year-round. After all, our homes can be a nice, cozy environment for fleas in all seasons!

In Western medicine, pain is defined as a complex phenomenon that includes both the sensation and the subsequent behaviors that occur as a response. In Eastern medicine, pain is the manifestation of stagnant Qi or blood. Essentially, it is energy that is caught in one area creating pain and loss of function. Longstanding stagnant energy eventually leads to permanent structural changes, such as arthritis.

Did you know? According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than half of the pets in the United States are overweight or obese.

Overweight pets are at risk for a variety of health problems, including skin infections, high blood pressure, heart disease, immune suppression, diabetes, orthopedic and arthritic disorders, and even some forms of cancer, as well as increased surgical and anesthetic risk.

The Fourth of July can be a very scary and dangerous time for family pets. Keep your furry friends safe with these tips.

Preparing your home for your new furry arrival is an exciting time. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or an old hand, it’s always a mix of emotions. Will everything go smoothly? Will they be safe and happy? One way you can protect your new charge is by pet-proofing your home.

Frankly, there are so many potential hazards, ranging from sugar-free gum to antifreeze, that it’s worth reviewing your home periodically, even if you’re used to living with pets.

It starts with an awareness of common pet hazards.

The ASPCA estimates there are approximately 6.5 million pets in shelters across the country. Many of these animals are great pets, but their families gave them up for a variety of reasons, including death or illness of a caregiver.

Because there are so many worthy animals waiting for their furever homes, it makes sense to adopt.

You don’t have to be a Scout to know that being prepared for an emergency is a smart idea. After all, you probably have bandages, topical ointments, and other items for human first aid needs. Why not prepare something similar for your pets?

Some emergencies are obvious, such as if your dog or cat has stopped breathing or is bleeding profusely. In those cases, of course, you’ll call the emergency vet.

But what about other concerns? A slip and fall that leads to a slight limp, or the sudden discovery of a rash - are those the kind of emergencies that require a rush to the hospital?