Few words evoke as much spontaneous glee as ‘my new puppy’. But, it’s also true that some might react with mild dread at the mere thought of the work involved in adopting a new pup. Fortunately, Dr. Sarah is ready to share the fruits of her personal experience and veterinary wisdom, all to help viewers ensure a smooth transition into the wonderful world of puppydom.

In the latest episode of Pet Talk, our puppy-loving doctor is joined by a very special co-host – Sarge. While technically not a sergeant (or even a human), Sarge is qualified to assist in this department, as he is a full-time puppy. With Sarge’s help, Dr. Sarah will reveal how, with just a little bit of prep work, you and your newest family member will be getting down to the business of bonding and creating adorable memories.

From tips on what you’ll need to buy before bringing your puppy home, to how to safely puppy-proof your home, to ideas for communicating effectively with your pup, to dietary considerations and so much more, Sarah and Sarge will demonstrate what you need to know in order to put your best paw forward.

From all of us here at Life’s Abundance, we send our heartfelt wishes for a long, healthy and happy relationship with your new canine companion.

To kick off the New Year and the launch of our Large Breed Puppy Food, we’re celebrating everything puppy. If you’re a new pet parent or are simply thinking about adopting a new puppy, we offer the following collection of frequently asked questions about puppies, along with Dr. Jane’s insightful responses.

My puppy often has the hiccups. Is this something I should be concerned about?

For a puppy, hiccups are generally not cause for alarm. Puppy hiccups are usually a harmless, involuntary contraction of the diaphragm. Hiccups are experienced by all breeds and sizes, with episodes typically lasting less than a few minutes. Some unborn pups even hiccup inside their mother's womb! While hiccups are harmless, when accompanied by regurgitation, or the sudden discharge of undigested food or water, especially without much provocation, is worrisome. If your pup vomits, especially repeatedly, a veterinary exam is very much in order. More...

It gives us immense pleasure to bring you more good news from the Dr. Jane HealthyPetNet Foundation. This first-of-2013 post sings the praises of one of our 2012 recipients, the Ft. Lauderdale-based Paws South Florida Rescue. This dedicated animal-welfare group has made significant inroads towards ending the cycle of feline overpopulation in their local South Florida area.

Devoted to working with feral cat communities, PSFR is composed of a tight-knit group of volunteers who care for felines who live in the shadows. Their efforts go towards the feeding and maintainence of these wild cat groups. PSFR is committed to seeing that all of these forgotten felines are up-to-date on their vaccinations, as well as tested and treated for illness or injury.

These aid providers are skilled in TNR, a method where felines are trapped without injury, neutered or spayed, and then released so that they may return to their feral group. With the assistance of veterinarians affiliated with PSFR, feral cat communities are closely monitored and carefully managed according to guidelines established by Alley Cat Allies, a popular feline advocacy organization. Any adults and kittens determined to be good candidates for adoption live with one of PSFR’s fosterers until matched with a perfect forever home. PSFR believes this foster-care strategy offers real advantages to the adoptable feral cats. Rescued felines learn to live in homes, where they are allowed to roam freely and socialize with people every day. More...