The occurrence of canine influenza is all-too-common these days. In what began with a viral infection in just eight dogs in one location less than a decade ago, the contagious disease has spread to more than half of the states across America. That’s why Dr. Sarah has dedicated this episode of Pet Talk to all of the pet parents who are dealing with this particular health challenge. The disease leads to symptoms similar to the flu in humans, including coughing, fever, malaise, loss of appetite, nasal discharge and possibly even pneumonia. Sadly, some dogs can experience permanent damage to their lungs, which is why awareness of the illness is paramount.

While boarding facilities are a great option for many people, some pet parents feel more comfortable hiring a pet sitter to stay home and care for their pet while they are away. Pet sitters and pet parents can make for a winning combination in companion animal care, but the secrets to this relationship are preparation and communication. If you are planning on hiring a pet sitter, here are some tips that help ensure a seamless experience:

Small and medium-size rescues are the primary beneficiaries of the grants awarded by the Dr. Jane’s HealthyPetNet Foundation. However, in times of crisis, they also bestow emergency donations of food and financial support to casualties of disaster. Thus far, victims of hurricanes, tornados and fires have all received funding and/or food donations from our non-profit. We can now add flood victims to the list of recipients who’ve benefitted from the foundation’s generosity.

Part of the privilege of sharing our lives with a pet kid is the emotional bond we share with them. Even among these relationships, often there is one very special companion animal, whether a dog, cat, bird or even a reptile, who makes an indelible mark on our lives.

In the 20th century, Americans were encouraged to guard against an ever-present Communist menace, even to go so far as to build underground fortifications to protect against an onslaught of nuclear weapons. Modern-day preppers face a much bigger adversary – Mother Nature. With brutal winters, tornadic springs, fiery summers and a hurricane season that lasts for months, calamity seems ubiquitous in the news. Before adversity strikes in your neighborhood, watch this episode of Pet Talk where Dr. Sarah offers her insights for how to avoid pandemonium in the wake of turmoil. Take this opportunity now to learn how to get your house in order, with helpful tips from our good doctor.

Located in Los Angeles County, FastFriends Greyhound Adoption of California maintains a wide foster-home network. When it comes to their rescue, FastFriends has a one-track mind - to help transition greyhounds from racing careers to lives of companionship with adoptive families.

It’s an unfortunate fact that our dogs and cats become sick and sustain injuries. And sometimes, getting to a vet quickly isn’t an option. Isn’t it comforting to know that you might be able to help simply by using items found in just about every home? Benefit from Dr. Sarah’s expertise as an emergency veterinary doctor, and watch this month’s episode of Pet Talk. You too can become a ‘Medical MacGyver’! Hopefully, you’ll learn something new that’ll help a companion animal in need until you can get to the vet.

People often ask me if cats can get asthma. Unfortunately, the answer is a definite, “Yes”. The signs of feline asthma can come on quite suddenly and can constitute a medical emergency, so let’s review this condition in some detail.

Richardson Rescue has been rescuing pets since 2003. The mission of this Carolina rescue is to provide shelter and care for both dogs and cats, and ultimately to place them in forever homes. In addition to these vital services, they also provide a low-cost spay-and-neuter program for local families subsisting on low incomes. An ardent advocate on behalf of animal rights, founder Janet Richardson views her work as falling under the umbrella of “preserving the sanctity of animal life”. As goals go, it’s our opinion that her rescue agency has become a great success!